Phoenix Carnegie Library And Library Park
1101 W. Washington St., Phoenix, AZ Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1974.
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 documented European exploration of Arizona was in 1539: Spanish explorer Marcos de Niza became the first European to explore what is now Arizona in 1539. He claimed the area for Spain and named it "Arizona" after a Native American word meaning "silver-bearing."
In the 16th century, Spanish explorers led by Estevanico, also known as Esteban the Moor, ventured into the present-day Maricopa County area. This encounter marked the beginning of European exploration and influence in the region. However, it wasn't until the mid-19th century that significant American settlement began. The establishment of Fort McDowell in 1865 and the subsequent discovery of gold in nearby areas attracted settlers to the county.
With the completion of the Southern Pacific Railroad in the 1880s, Maricopa County experienced a surge in population growth and economic development. Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, became a major industry. The county's fertile land and reliable water supply made it a favorable location for agricultural ventures.
Following World War II, Maricopa County experienced tremendous growth due to factors such as the availability of affordable land, a warm climate, and a booming economy. The county's largest city, Phoenix, became a thriving metropolis, attracting businesses and new residents. The establishment of Arizona State University in Tempe and the expansion of Luke Air Force Base further contributed to the county's growth.
Today, Maricopa County is home to more than four million residents, making it the most populous county in Arizona. It is known for its diverse economy, which includes industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, technology, and tourism. The county is also famous for its expansive outdoor recreation opportunities, with numerous parks, hiking trails, and beautiful desert landscapes.
Maricopa County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Maricopa County, Arizona.
- 1871 - Maricopa County is created from parts of Yavapai County and Pima County.
- 1878 - Phoenix becomes the official county seat of Maricopa County.
- 1881 - The first train arrives in Phoenix, connecting the city to the rest of the country.
- 1889 - Maricopa County Courthouse is built in Phoenix.
- 1911 - Roosevelt Dam is completed, providing a reliable water source for agriculture and growth in the county.
- 1941 - Luke Air Force Base is established, playing a significant role during World War II and beyond.
- 1960 - Maricopa County population surpasses half a million.
- 1980 - Maricopa County becomes the most populous county in Arizona.
- 1993 - Sheriff Joe Arpaio takes office, gaining national attention for his hardline stance on immigration and controversial practices.