Brown Library Renovation and Expansion Campaign
MHS reaches $400,000 Kresge Challenge
MHS is nearing the completion of its $9.5 million two-year project to renovate and expand the Alida Carroll and John Marshall Brown Library! Thanks to hundreds of gifts, we have met a $400,000 challenge from the Kresge Foundation, bringing the total funds raised-to-date to $8.8 million. We are deeply grateful to all who have brought us this far, sometimes against a very stiff economic tide.
Our Family History
The story of the Library is significant. In 1901, Anne Longfellow Pierce, sister of the famed 19th century poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow left the family homestead to the Maine Historical Society in her will. The home had been built by Anne and Henry's grandparents, civil war General Peleg Wadsworth and his wife Zilpah and housed three generations of the family. Anne’s bequest stipulated that the house—increasingly sought out by fans of the legendary poet—was to be opened to the public as a museum run by the Maine Historical Society. It became one of the first house museums and literary shrines in the nation. Her will also directed that a Library be built on the property to the rear of the Wadsworth-Longfellow House as a permanent home for the Maine Historical Society. Designed by Alexander Wadsworth Longfellow, Henry and Anne’s nephew and a prominent New England architect of the time, the Library was built in 1907.
$9.5 Million Renovation and Transformation
Patrons researching in the library
In more recent years, the library facility has needed structural repairs, fire and security systems, upgraded technology, and improved access and amenities for patrons. The $9.5 million renovation and expansion includes a new 13,000 sq. ft. wing that provides expanded storage, climate-control, work areas for staff, and a home for the Maine Memory Network. The renovation preserves the historic character of the building yet transforms the Library into a state-of-the-art research facility, providing first-rate care of the collections we hold in trust for all the people of Maine.
Longfellow Garden Children’s Gate – A Special Project
Exterior work included the planting and landscaping of the popular Longfellow Garden, adjacent to the library. One of the Longfellow Garden’s most unique features is the Children’s Gate, which once tied the library and Longfellow House together. The gate was designed by the architect Alexander Wadsworth Longfellow to honor his uncle Henry’s famous affection for children. It was installed soon after the original library opened in 1907 but was removed in the 1960s in dilapidated condition. In partnership with the Longfellow Garden Club, MHS would like to bring the Children’s Gate back and have created a special fundraising effort to accomplish it. With a goal of $100,000, fundraising is underway to rebuild this beautiful and historical entryway to the garden. The effort has been kicked off by a very generous gift of $25,000 from the Longfellow Garden Club. If you would like to help, please contact Bonnie Vance in the development office at 774-1822, ext. 231 or email bvance@mainehistory.org
Give to the Children’s Gate project today using our secure online donation form.
The Home Stretch
The renovation and expansion – 100 years after the facility was first built – ushers in a new era in the preservation and sharing of Maine history. The final goal is in sight – about $700,000 away – and we still need your support. To all who’ve seen the library, it is clear that both Maine history and the Maine Historical Society are entering a new future. Please help us raise the remaining balance, and help make a difference to the entire state of Maine. Gifts of all sizes are needed to help us reach our goal. Many naming opportunities are still available. It is a wonderful way to honor the memory of loved ones or to leave your own mark on history. For more information, learn about naming opportunities, or make a gift, contact the development office: 207-774-1822, ext 231.
Grand Opening!
A grand public celebration on June 27th, 2009 will dedicate the MHS library as the Alida Carroll and John Marshall Brown Library. The Browns were prominent figures in 19th-century Maine and this dedication honors their devotion to Maine and its history. The day includes a ceremony at noon, campus tours and an open house throughout the day, and the launch of a new exhibition, Re/Collected: Great Works and New Discoveries from the Brown Library. We hope to see you!
More information about the architects and the campus master plan.
Give to the Campaign today using our secure online donation form