Monticello Carnegie Library
a.k.a. Montecello Public Library; White County Historical Society Museum
101 S. Bluff St., Monticello, IN Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2013.
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 Wabash River, which flows through western Indiana, was the inspiration for the state song, "On the Banks of the Wabash, Far Away," written by Paul Dresser in 1897. It became one of the most popular songs of its time and has since become a symbol of the state's heritage.
The first European settlers arrived in the early 19th century, establishing small communities throughout the area. In 1834, White County was officially established, named after Colonel Isaac White, a pioneer and a legislator. The county quickly grew as more settlers arrived, attracted by the fertile land, rolling hills, and ample water sources.
Throughout the mid-19th century, White County became known for its robust agricultural industry. Farmers cultivated crops such as corn, wheat, and oats, while livestock production also flourished. The construction of railroads in the late 1800s further accelerated the county's growth, facilitating transportation and enabling farmers and merchants to expand their markets.
In the early 20th century, White County experienced a significant shift towards industrialization. Manufacturing industries, including automobile manufacturing, furniture production, and canning factories, sprung up, providing employment opportunities for the growing population. Additionally, the county became a popular recreational destination, attracting tourists with its picturesque landscapes and natural attractions.
Today, White County continues to thrive as a mix of agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. Its charming small towns offer a glimpse into the region's history, with preserved historic buildings and museums showcasing the area's heritage. With its strong sense of community and emphasis on preserving its past, White County remains a significant part of Indiana's cultural and economic landscape.
White County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of White County, Indiana.
- 1834 - White County established as a county in the state of Indiana
- 1835 - First settlers begin arriving in the county
- 1839 - The town of Monticello is platted and becomes the county seat
- 1852 - Construction of the first courthouse in Monticello
- 1858 - Completion of the first railroad line in the county
- 1861-1865 - White County residents participate in the American Civil War
- 1870 - Population of the county reaches over 10,000
- 1892 - The Monticello Dam is built along the Tippecanoe River
- 1917-1918 - White County contributes to the war efforts during World War I
- 1930s - The Great Depression impacts the county's economy
- 1942-1945 - White County residents serve in World War II
- 1954 - Construction of the Norway Dam is completed
- 1976 - White County celebrates the United States Bicentennial
- 1990 - The population of the county reaches over 25,000
- 2013 - The Monticello Railway Museum opens to the public
- 2018 - Development of the Indiana IoT Lab in Monticello begins