Mishawaka Carnegie Library
a.k.a. 141-597-53104
122 North Hill, Mishawaka, IN Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1998.
1881: Andrew Carnegie, a Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist, begins his philanthropic efforts in library construction by donating funds to build the Braddock Library in Pennsylvania.
1883: The first "Carnegie Library" is officially established in Dunfermline, Scotland, Carnegie's birthplace. This library serves as a model for future Carnegie Libraries.
1886: Carnegie writes an article titled "Wealth," where he articulates his belief in philanthropy and the responsibility of the wealthy to give back to society.
1889: The Carnegie Corporation of New York is established with the aim of funding the construction of libraries across the United States and other English-speaking countries.
1893: The first Carnegie Library in the United States, the Carnegie Library of Braddock in Pennsylvania, is opened to the public.
Late 1890s to early 1900s: The construction of Carnegie Libraries spreads rapidly throughout the United States and other parts of the English-speaking world, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. The libraries are often designed by prominent architects and feature diverse architectural styles.
1901: The Carnegie Corporation of New York is founded as a philanthropic organization to manage and administer Andrew Carnegie's charitable projects, including the library program.
1902: Carnegie makes a significant endowment, donating $10 million to establish the Carnegie Institute in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Institute includes a library, an art gallery, and a natural history museum.
1917: Andrew Carnegie dies, leaving a lasting legacy of philanthropy, including the establishment of thousands of libraries around the world.
1920s-1930s: The construction of Carnegie Libraries gradually slows down, and the focus shifts to maintaining and updating existing libraries to meet changing community needs.
Late 20th century to present: Many Carnegie Libraries undergo renovations, expansions, or repurposing to adapt to modern library services and technological advancements. Some continue to operate as public libraries, while others have been transformed into cultural centers, museums, community spaces, or educational institutions.
The Carnegie Libraries have left an indelible mark on the accessibility of knowledge and education. They remain a testament to Andrew Carnegie's belief in the power of libraries to uplift communities and provide opportunities for personal and intellectual growth.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
The first European settlement in Indiana was established by the French in 1732 at Vincennes, in the southwestern part of the state.
In 1820, St. Joseph County was officially formed and named after the river that runs through it. South Bend, the county seat, was established in 1831 and quickly became a center of commerce and industry. The area's fertile farmland and proximity to shipping routes contributed to its growth, attracting businesses such as Studebaker, Oliver Chilled Plow Works, and Singer Sewing Machine Company.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, St. Joseph County saw significant industrialization. The automotive industry, in particular, played a key role in the county's development. South Bend became a major center for automobile manufacturing, with companies like Studebaker and Bendix Corporation employing thousands of workers. In addition to manufacturing, the county also experienced growth in education and health care, thanks to the presence of University of Notre Dame and a thriving medical community.
St. Joseph County has faced various challenges throughout its history. The Great Depression and the decline of the automotive industry in the mid-20th century had a significant impact on the local economy. However, the county has shown resilience and adaptability, diversifying its economy and focusing on sectors such as education, healthcare, and tourism. Today, St. Joseph County continues to be a vibrant and flourishing community, with a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community pride.
St. Joseph County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of St. Joseph County, Indiana.
- 1680s: Native American tribes, such as the Potawatomi, inhabit the area that would later become St. Joseph County.
- 1820: St. Joseph County is established in the Indiana Territory.
- 1823: South Bend, the county seat, is platted and named after its location on the bend of the St. Joseph River.
- 1830: The University of Notre Dame is founded by Father Edward Sorin.
- 1852: The first railroad, the Michigan Southern & Northern Indiana Railroad, reaches St. Joseph County, fostering growth and economic development.
- 1874: The St. Joseph County Public Library is established as a subscription library.
- 1922: The Studebaker Corporation, a prominent automobile manufacturer, opens its new plant in South Bend, becoming a major employer in the region.
- 1965: Studebaker ceases automobile production, leading to a significant economic decline in the county.
- 1988: The College Football Hall of Fame relocates to South Bend, bringing increased tourism to the area.
- 2004: St. Joseph County celebrates its bicentennial, marking 200 years since its establishment.