Hubbard Free Library facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hubbard Free Library |
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| Country | United States |
| Type | Public Library |
| Location | 115 Second Street Hallowell, Maine |
| Website | http://www.hubbardfree.org |
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Hallowell Historic District
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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| Built | 1879-80, 1893-94, 1897-98 |
| Architect | Alexander C. Currier |
| Architectural style | Gothic Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 70000076 |
| Added to NRHP | October 28, 1970 |
The Hubbard Free Library is a public library that serves the town of Hallowell, Maine. It also helps people in nearby communities like Chelsea and Farmingdale. An architect named Alexander C. Currier designed the building. He made it look like an English country church.
The library first opened in 1880 as the Hallowell Library. Later, in 1894, it got a new name: the Hubbard Free Library. This happened after a generous gift from a person who loved to help others, Thomas Hubbard. The library building is also part of the important Hallowell Historic District.
How the Library Began
The idea for a library in Hallowell started in 1843. It was called the Hallowell Social Library. Forty-three people bought shares, like owning a small part of a company, to start it. Each person paid $20.
At first, only these share-owners and their families could use the books. Five years later, the library became a public library. This meant other people could use it too, but they had to pay a fee. It cost $3 per year at first, then it dropped to $2 a year in 1848.
Building a Permanent Home
In 1878, a group called the Friends of Libraries started raising money. They wanted to build a special home for the library. By 1880, the new building was ready! The land and building cost $8,300.
Alexander C. Currier, the architect, gave his time for free. He designed the building and watched over its construction. The entire building is made of Hallowell granite. This stone was a gift from Joseph R. Bodwell, who owned the Hallowell Granite Co. He later became the Governor of Maine.
Library Expands
In 1893, Thomas Hubbard gave money to build a free library. He was a Civil War Colonel, a lawyer, and a successful businessman. He was also a philanthropist, meaning he gave money to good causes.
By March 1894, the new part of the building was finished. The library was then renamed the Hubbard Free Library. The money from Thomas Hubbard helped add a new section. This addition was shaped like a cross, fitting with the original church-like design.
More Space for Books
Another addition was built in 1897. This time, Eliza Clark Lowell of Hallowell gave $10,000. She was a direct descendant of Deacon Pease Clark, who was the very first settler in Hallowell.
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Interior, circa 1880.
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Interior, 1971.
