Tyrrell Historical Library facts for kids
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Tyrrell Public Library
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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Tyrrell Library in 2009
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 Tyrrell Public Library
Location in Texas
Tyrrell Public Library
Location in the United States
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| Location | 695 Pearl St., Beaumont, Texas |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1903 |
| Architect | Alonzo N. Dawson |
| Architectural style | Richardsonian Romanesque |
| Part of | Beaumont Commercial District (ID78002959) |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Designated CP | April 14, 1978 |
The Tyrrell Historical Library is a special public library located in Beaumont, Texas. This beautiful building was first built in 1903. It was originally a church, the First Baptist Church. The library building shows off a mix of old architectural styles. These include Richardsonian Romanesque and Victorian Gothic. You can see this in its pointed windows and special clover-shaped designs called quatrefoils. All of its original stained glass windows are still there.
The church moved to a new place in 1923, leaving the building empty. A kind person named Captain W. C. Tyrrell bought it. He then gave the building to the city. This allowed it to become Beaumont's very first public library. Today, the building is recognized as a very important historical site. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is also a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark.
Contents
From Church to Library: A New Beginning
After some updates, the building opened as a library in 1926. It served as the main public library for Beaumont for many years. In 1974, a new main library was built. This original building was then renamed the "Tyrrell Historical Library." This was done to honor Captain W. C. Tyrrell, who had generously donated it.
What You Can Find at the Library
The Tyrrell Historical Library is now a central place for important collections. It holds many genealogical records. These records help people research their family history. The library also has a special collection called Texana. This collection focuses on books and items about Texas history and culture.
Updates and Additions to the Building
The library building received updates in 1990. These upgrades improved its systems. In 2010, a new section was added to the building. This addition was designed to look like the original building's style. However, it did not try to copy it exactly.
Photo gallery
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The outside of the Tyrrell Historical Library
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Beautiful stained glass inside the library
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A look at the detailed ceiling
See also
