Minot Carnegie Library
a.k.a. Free Public Library;Carnegie Library;Minot Public Library
105 2nd Ave., SE, Minot, ND Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
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.
North Dakota was once home to a massive inland sea, known as the Western Interior Seaway, which covered much of the state during the Late Cretaceous period around 80 million years ago. Fossils from marine creatures that lived in this sea can still be found in the state today.
In the late 19th century, Ward County experienced an influx of European settlers, primarily from Scandinavia and Germany, attracted by the promises of fertile land and economic opportunities. The Great Northern Railway also played a significant role in the county's development, establishing towns and attracting more settlers. Minot, the county seat, was founded in 1886 and quickly grew into an important transportation hub and commercial center.
Throughout the 20th century, Ward County went through various economic highs and lows. Agriculture, particularly wheat farming and cattle ranching, formed the backbone of the local economy. In the 1950s, the discovery of oil and gas reserves brought new prosperity to the county, leading to the establishment of petroleum-related industries and infrastructure. Today, Ward County continues to be a key player in North Dakota's energy sector.
Ward County has also witnessed significant social and cultural developments. It is home to Minot Air Force Base, which played a crucial role during the Cold War and remains an important military installation. The county has seen population growth, urbanization, and diversification, with a mix of industry, education, and healthcare contributing to its vitality. Ward County embodies North Dakota's pioneering spirit, from its Native American heritage to its agricultural roots and its continued adaptability to changing economic and social landscapes.
Ward County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Ward County, North Dakota.
- 1885 - Ward County is officially established in the Dakota Territory
- 1886 - The first settlers arrive in the area, primarily of Scandinavian and German descent
- 1890 - The Great Northern Railway extends its line into the county, leading to increased settlement and economic growth
- 1904 - The city of Minot is incorporated as the county seat of Ward County
- 1914 - The Mouse River Park is established, becoming a popular recreational area in the county
- 1920 - The Ward County Courthouse is built in Minot, replacing the previous courthouse
- 1956 - The Minot Air Force Base is established, bringing economic opportunities and growth to the county
- 1969 - The Mouse River Flood causes significant damage to Minot and other areas in Ward County
- 1997 - The Minot International Airport opens, improving transportation infrastructure in the county
- 2011 - Another major flood hits Minot and other parts of the county, causing widespread destruction