What are Carnegie Libraries?

Carnegie Libraries are public libraries that were built with financial assistance from philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. These libraries were funded by Carnegie's donations and were established across the United States and other countries during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Who was Andrew Carnegie?

Andrew Carnegie was a Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist who made a fortune in the steel industry during the late 19th century. He believed in the importance of education and donated a significant portion of his wealth to fund the construction of public libraries, known as Carnegie Libraries.

Why did Andrew Carnegie fund libraries?

Andrew Carnegie believed that access to knowledge and education was vital for individual and societal progress. He funded libraries as a way to provide free access to books and learning resources to communities, particularly those that lacked access to educational opportunities.

How many Carnegie Libraries were built?

Between 1883 and 1929, Carnegie's donations led to the construction of over 2,500 libraries worldwide. The majority of these libraries were built in the United States, with others in countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

What was the process to receive funding for a Carnegie Library?

Communities seeking funding for a Carnegie Library had to submit a formal application to Carnegie's foundation, providing details about their need for a library, willingness to maintain the library, and plans for site selection and ongoing funding. Carnegie's foundation would then review the application and approve or deny the request.

What were the architectural features of Carnegie Libraries?

Carnegie Libraries often featured neoclassical architectural styles, reflecting the prevailing design preferences of the time. Many were designed by prominent architects and showcased features like grand entrances, decorative facades, and large reading rooms with high ceilings and natural light.

Were all Carnegie Libraries the same?

While Carnegie Libraries shared the common purpose of providing public access to books and knowledge, their sizes and designs varied depending on the community's needs and available funding. Some libraries were smaller, single-room facilities, while others were larger, multi-story buildings.

Are Carnegie Libraries still in use today?

Many Carnegie Libraries are still in use today, serving as public libraries, community centers, museums, or other cultural institutions. Some have undergone renovations or expansions to accommodate modern needs, while others remain relatively unchanged.

Did Carnegie Libraries have any specific requirements or conditions?

Carnegie's donations often came with conditions. For example, communities were expected to provide a suitable site for the library, commit to maintaining the facility, and allocate a portion of their annual budget for library operations. Additionally, racial segregation was sometimes enforced in Carnegie Libraries, reflecting the social norms of the era.

What is the legacy of Carnegie Libraries?

The Carnegie Library initiative had a significant impact on public library development worldwide. It expanded access to education, promoted literacy, and served as a model for future library systems. The libraries continue to play a crucial role in communities by providing free access to knowledge and fostering a love of reading.

Historical Marker

Vincennes' Carnegie Library

Historical marker location:

Vincennes, Indiana

( Marker is at the intersection of North 7th Street and Seminary Street, on the left when traveling north on North 7th Street.)

Marker installed: 2001

A brief timeline of the history of Carnegie Libraries

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.

Indiana is the crossroads of America.

About Knox County

Knox County, Indiana, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 19th century when it was first established. The county was officially organized in 1790 and named after General Henry Knox, the first Secretary of War in the United States. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Miami, Piankeshaw, and Wea tribes, who lived off the land and traded with European settlers.

In the early years, Knox County played a significant role in the development of the Indiana Territory. Vincennes, the county seat, became the territorial capital in 1800 and remained so until Indiana gained statehood in 1816. It was during this time that Vincennes became the center of government, commerce, and culture in the territory.

Knox County also played a significant role in the War of 1812. The Battle of Tippecanoe, which took place in neighboring Tippecanoe County, led to heightened tensions with Native American tribes in the region. This ultimately culminated in the Battle of Vincennes in 1813 when British soldiers and their Native American allies attacked the town. The American forces managed to defend the town, securing an important victory in the war.

As the 19th century progressed, Knox County became a hub for transportation and industry. The Wabash River, which runs through the county, provided a vital route for steamboats and facilitated the growth of trade and commerce. The discovery of coal and oil in the region further spurred economic development and attracted new industries to the area.

Throughout its history, Knox County has experienced periods of growth and decline. Today, it continues to be a vibrant community with a mix of rural and urban areas. Historic sites such as the George Rogers Clark National Historical Park and the Vincennes Fort Sackville Historic Site serve as reminders of the county's rich history and attract visitors from far and wide.

Knox County Timeline

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Knox County, Indiana.

1779 - The area of present-day Knox County is originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Delaware, Shawnee, and Piankeshaw.
1732 - The French establish Fort Ouiatenon near present-day Knox County.
1787 - The U.S. Congress creates the Northwest Territory, which includes Knox County.
1809 - The Indiana Territory is formed, and Knox County becomes one of its original counties.
1811 - Vincennes, the county seat of Knox County, becomes the capital of the Indiana Territory.
1813 - The Battle of Vincennes takes place during the War of 1812.
1816 - Indiana becomes a state, and Knox County is among its first counties.
1825 - The Wabash and Erie Canal opens, enhancing trade and transportation in Knox County.
1857 - The Vincennes University is established in Knox County.
1861-1865 - Many residents of Knox County serve in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
1901 - The Knox County Courthouse, a prominent landmark, is completed.
1937 - The George Rogers Clark Memorial, honoring the Revolutionary War hero, is dedicated in Vincennes.