Shedd-Porter Memorial Library facts for kids
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Shedd-Porter Memorial Library
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 Location in New Hampshire
Location in the United States
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| Location | 3 Main St., Alstead, New Hampshire |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1910 |
| Architect | William H. McLean; Albert H. Wright |
| Architectural style | Beaux Arts |
| NRHP reference No. | 10001086 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | December 27, 2010 |
The Shedd-Porter Memorial Library is a public library in Alstead, New Hampshire. You can find it at 3 Main Street. This beautiful building was a special gift to the town. It came from John Graves Shedd and his wife, Mary Roenna (Porter) Shedd.
The library was built in 1910. It was designed by architects William H. McLean and Albert H. Wright. The building has a fancy style called Beaux Arts. John G. Shedd also gave 2,000 books to start the library's collection. Today, the library has over 10,000 books and other items! The building is very important. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2010. It was also listed on the New Hampshire State Register of Historic Places in 2011.
Contents
What is the Shedd-Porter Memorial Library?
The Shedd-Porter Memorial Library is more than just a place for books. It is a central part of the Alstead community. People of all ages can visit to read, learn, and connect. The library offers many resources. These include books, computers, and programs for kids and teens.
Who were John and Mary Shedd?
The library is named after its generous donors. John Graves Shedd was a very successful businessman. He grew up in Alstead, New Hampshire. He became the head of a large department store called Marshall Field & Company. His wife, Mary Roenna (Porter) Shedd, was from a nearby town. They gave the library in memory of their parents. Their gift helped create a lasting place for learning in Alstead.
Exploring the Library's Design
The Shedd-Porter Memorial Library is in the middle of Alstead village. It sits on about half an acre of land. You can find it on the west side of Main Street. It is just south of the Cold River. The building looks grand and strong. It is made of granite stone.
What does Beaux Arts architecture mean?
The library's style is called Beaux Arts. This style was popular in the early 1900s. It often uses ideas from ancient Greek and Roman buildings. Beaux Arts buildings usually look very balanced and fancy. They often have columns, grand entrances, and detailed decorations.
Details of the Library's Exterior
The library building is shaped like a rectangle. It has parts that stick out in the front and back. These are called pavilions. In the very center of the roof, there is a dome. The main entrance is in the front pavilion. It has tall, decorative columns. These columns are called Ionic columns. The entrance also has fancy carvings above it. Large windows are on either side of the front entrance.
Inside the Library
The inside of the library is set up in a common way for old libraries. When you walk in, you enter a small room called a vestibule. This leads to the main area. In the center, there is a desk for the librarian. Reading rooms are on both sides of this central area. The back pavilion holds the shelves where books are kept.
The library also has a basement. This space was once a small meeting hall. Now, it has been changed. It is used as a special area for children's books and a reading room. This makes the library a great place for younger visitors too.
Why is the Library Historic?
The Shedd-Porter Memorial Library is important for several reasons. It is a beautiful example of Beaux Arts architecture. It shows the generous spirit of John and Mary Shedd. It has also served the community for over 100 years. Being on the National Register of Historic Places means it is recognized as a special part of American history. It is protected so future generations can enjoy it.
