Morris Carnegie Library
a.k.a. Stevens County Historical Society
Nevada and 6th Sts., Morris, MN Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
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.
If bowling was the sport of the gods, it would take place in Minnesota.
The first permanent settlers in Stevens County arrived in the 1850s, drawn to the area by the fertile land, abundant wildlife, and proximity to water sources like Pomme de Terre River and Lake Minnewaska. The county was officially established in 1862 and named after Isaac Ingalls Stevens, who was the first governor of Washington Territory.
Throughout the late 19th century, farming became the backbone of the county's economy, with settlers cultivating wheat, corn, and other crops. Railroads were also constructed, connecting Stevens County to the rest of the state and facilitating trade and transportation. The county experienced steady growth, attracting more residents and businesses.
Over the years, Stevens County has faced its share of challenges and hardships, including devastating prairie fires, outbreaks of disease, and economic downturns. However, the community has always demonstrated resilience and adaptability, bouncing back from adversity and continuing to thrive.
Today, Stevens County is a vibrant and diverse community, with agriculture, healthcare, education, and manufacturing being some of the main industries. The county is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, recreational opportunities, and strong sense of community pride. Its history is preserved and celebrated through various historical sites, museums, and events, reflecting the strong heritage and spirit of this Minnesota county.
Stevens County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Stevens County, Minnesota.
- 1856: Stevens County is established and named after Isaac Ingalls Stevens, the first governor of Washington Territory.
- 1862: The Dakota War of 1862 erupts in the region, causing significant unrest and conflicts.
- 1866: The first permanent settlers, John and Anna Larson, arrive in present-day Stevens County.
- 1871: The first post office in what is now Stevens County is established in Morris, the current county seat.
- 1880: The railroad arrives in Stevens County, leading to increased commerce and development.
- 1883: The city of Morris is incorporated, becoming the first city in Stevens County.
- 1896: The University of Minnesota-Morris, a liberal arts college, is founded in Morris.
- 1909: Stevens County Courthouse is completed, replacing the original wooden courthouse built in 1882.
- 1930s: The Great Depression impacts Stevens County, leading to economic hardships for many residents.
- 1960s: Agriculture remains a vital part of the local economy, but the number of farms and population decline.
- 2007: Morris is designated as "America's Greenest Small Town" by National Geographic.
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