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Skowhegan Public Library
Skowhegan Free Public Library Elm St. Skowhegan Maine |
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of octagonal towers and gables, it looks out upon the Kennebec River. Above the entrance is an inscribed panel flanked by an urn and open book, signifying the library as a container of knowledge. On the upper left front is a semi-circle section of terra cotta blocks which contain the badges and shields of the Grand Army of the Republic, the Army Corps, and various veterans organizations. The building is included in the National Register of Historic Building Former governor of Maine and leading Skowhegan citizen, Abner Coburn provided the funds for this buildings. At the time |
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At the time of construction, the town of Skowhegan voted to contribute funds for a Memorial Room in the library to honor soldiers of past wars. This is now the main reading room of the library, and a black marble tablet listing the names of Civil War soldiers is mounted over the fireplace. In addition, a stained and leaded glass window of a full length portrayal of Columbia and her billowing flag is a focal point at the front of the room. Many other outstanding features can be found throughout the building, including four unusual tile fireplaces with decorative hearths. Also, especially beautiful is the inside woodwork of carved antique oak found in all the rooms. |
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the bright and sunny upstairs of the library. Originally, this space was devoted to pleasant parlors where women's clubs held their meetings for many years. On April 20, 1943, however, this area was opened as the Children's Rooms as a gift from Mr. and Mrs. William Hinman in memory of their daughter Jane. It now serves as the space for many fun and exciting programs as well as the source for both adventurous and educational reading and learning for young patrons. Today the library, still managed by the Bloomfield Academy Trustees, |
Due to the generosity and foresight of Governor Coburn, Skowhegan citizens have a Library building of which to be truly proud.
For more information:Skowhegan Free Public Library
Written by Corrilla Hastings