Nomination for Eldredge Public Library

From the form

The catalogue entry the section above was filed under.

430 NPS Form 10-900 (Oct. 1990) United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Registration Form OMB No. 10024-0018 R ECEIVE MAR 2 7 1992 NATIONAL REGISTER This form is for use in nominating or requesting determinations for individual properties and districts. See instructions in How to Complete the National Register of Historic Places Registration Form (National Register Bulletin 16A). Complete each item by marking "x" in the appropriate box o by entering the information requested. If an item does not apply to the property being documented, enter "N/A" for "not applicable." For functions, architectural classification, materials, and areas of significance, enter only categories and subcategories from the instructions. Place additional entries and narrative items on continuation sheets (NPS Form 10-900a).

Use a typewriter, word processor, or computer, to complete all items. 1. Name of Property historic name Eldredge Public Library other names/site number 2. Location street & number - 564 Main Street city or town Chatham N/A not for publication N/A vicinity state _ Massachusetts code MA - county Barnstable code 001 zip code 02633 3. State/Federal Agency Certification As the designated authority under the National Historic Preservation Act, as amended, I hereby certify that this [X nomination J request for determination of eligibility meets the documentation standards for registering properties in the National Register o listoric Places and meets the procedural and professional requirements set forth in 36 CFR Part 60. In my opinion, the propert X meets - does not meet the National Register criteria. I recommend that this property be considered significant -nationally - statewide X locally.

( See continuation sheet for additional comments.) sudll MiDenon 3 1392 Signature of certitying official/Title Judith B. McDonoughPate Executive Director Massachusetts Historical Commission, State Historic Preservation Officer State of Federal agency and bureau In my opinion, the property - meets - does not meet the National Register criteria. (L] See continuation sheet for additional comments.) Signature of certifying official/Title Date State or Federal agency and bureau 4. National Park Service Certification I hereby certify that the property is: Ponered ini coNarioalon stetr. J determined eligible for the Vational Registel - See continuation sheet. J determined not eligible for th Vational Registe removed from the National Register.

- other, (explain:) Entered in the Signature of the Keeper Hat1onal Regtates Date of Action Ailous Byee $/25/92 Eldredge Public Library Name of Property 5. Classification Ownership of Property (Check as many boxes as apply) private public-local public-State public-Federal Barnstable County, Massachusetts County and State Category of Property (Check only one box) X building(s) - district site structure object Number of Resources within Property (Do not include previously listed resources in the count.) Contributing Noncontributing 1 buildings _ sites _ structures _ objects 1 - Total Number of contributing resources previously listed in the National Register Name of related multiple property listing (Enter "N/A" if property is not part of a multiple property listing.) N/A 6.

Function or Use Historic Functions (Enter categories from instructions) EDUCATION: library Current Functions (Enter categories from instructions) EDUCATION: library 7. Description Architectural Classification (Enter categories from instructions) LATE VICTORIAN: Romanesque Revival Materials (Enter categories from instructions) foundation_ Quincy Granite walls Red Brick roof other Slate Brownstone trim Narrative Description (Describethe historic and current condition of the property on one or more continuation sheets.) United Statea Department of the interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet Section number _ 7 . "Page _ Eldredge Public Library, Chatham, Massachusetts DESCRIPTION The Eldredge Public Library was built to the designs of Fall River architect Albion M. Marble in 1896.

It is a finely detailed example of the Romanesque Revival style whose massing and materials lend presence to a relatively small-scale building. The library remains on its original site in the town's commercial/institutional center, and retains its original granite foundation, red brick walls, brownstone trim, and slate roof with terra cotta cresting. Windows retain original 1/1 sash in an unusual configuration that includes a small pane over a larger pane.

It also continues to display the high quality of original workmanship, and retain all of its important design features including asymmetrical massing, cross gables, projecting bays, entry recessed within a massive round arched opening, banks of windows some of which contain stained glass, and eyebrow dormers, as well as interior fittings like quartered oak wainscotting, original shelving, and a massive carved oak fireplace in the reading room. The library is currently being enlarged reconstructing a 1968 rear wing and adding another wing behind it. The new design is inspired by the scale, materials, and design features of the original building, and does not diminish the important aspects of the building's integrity. The library is located on the northeast side of Main Street in Chatham's central business district.

It is part of a small institutional cluster that includes the Town Hall (1830s with additions) and the Methodist Church (1849) on the opposite of the street. The area is generally characterized by small-scale, wood-frame and masonry structures dating from the early 19th century through the present. The library plays a key role in defining the character of this area. The library occupies a prominent elevated lot at the northeast corner of Main Street and Library Lane and is set off by a granite retaining wall on those sides. It is fronted by a broad lawn with a semicircular pathway that leads from Main Street to the main entrance. The lawn is planted with mature trees, and features the 1924 Pioneers of Chatham monument at its center. The side lawns are narrow, while the rear of the lot is now taken up by the new wing.

The primary view from Main Street continues to reveal only the original portion of the library building. The original library is built on a rectangular plan, and rises 1 and 1/2 stories from an irregular granite block foundation to a slate gable roof with eyebrow dormers, terra cotta cresting, and raised parapet endwalls. Chimneys rise off center on the rear roof slope, and along the southeast elevation. It is constructed of West Barnstable red brick with fine tinted mortar joints. It is trimmed with Longmeadow brownstone including a raised watertable, beltcourses linking window sills and heads, quoins, entry and window surrounds and parapet coping. The foundation is dark gray Quincy granite.

(continued) 100000 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historlc Places Continuation Sheet Section number - "Page _ Eldredge Public Library, Chatham, Massachusetts The asymmetrical southwest facade is centered on a projecting cross gable with a three-sided conical-roofed bay to the left, and the main entry to the right. The bay contains 1/1 windows with transoms on each of its three faces; it is enclosed by a copper roof whose cornice displays egg and dart molding. The double-leaf, glazed and paneled entry is recessed within a large round-arched opening trimmed with radiating brownstone voussoirs. The entry is approached from the circular path by a three step terrace and a flight of tap toreace dnd a 0 eight stairs fashioned from North River stone. A paired window with transoms is located in the gable field above.

To the right of the cross gable is a large three-part window with transoms that lights the reading room. To the left are two paired windows set near the cornice. Iwo small narrow windows are located below. The basement story contains two small two-pane windows on the left side and one on the right. The northwest elevation, facing Library Lane, features large three-part windows at both the first and attic stories. They are separated by a panel decorated with burnt headers laid in a diaper-pattern. The attic story windows are headed by transoms. The southeast elevation is centered on an exposed chimney stack that flares out at the cornice level, and is trimmed with brownstone quoins. At the first story it is framed by paired windows with transoms and brownstone surrounds. Smaller single windows with transoms flank the chimney at the second story.

The southeastern half of the rear elevation is obscured by a wing that was added in 1968, and rebuilt in more compatible style in 1991-1992 (see below). The interior frames of the triple windows that originally existed here remain in place with a blank wall behind them. The stained glass window that was centered on this elevation also remains in place. The north western half displays two paired windows set near the cornice with two small narrow window centered beneath. The addition consists of the rebuilt 1968 wing and an entirely new cross-gable section that carefully echoes the scale and massing of the original building. Materials were also selected to match the original including red brick facing with fine tinted mortar joints and brownstone trim, and slate roof with copper trim.

New is distinguished from old by elimination of the granite foundation and terra cotta cresting, by simplification of trim profiles, and by repetition of the burnt header diaper pattern in modern blue enameled brick. Windows retain the original unequally sized 1/1 sash configuration; the motif of small narrow windows is also repeated in exaggerated fashion. The rebuilt wing rises 1 and 1/2 stories to a slate gable roof. The southeast elevation is set back slightly from the plane of the original to distinguish old and new sections. That elevation displays four evenly spaced windows. The asymmetrical northwest elevation contains the entrance which is a stylized version of the original. It is set in a gabled cross pavilion, and recessed (continued) 10000 United States Department of the Intertor National Park Service Nationai Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet Mo.

1 Eldredge Public Library, Chatham, Massachusetts Section number -Page - within a massive round-arched opening trimmed with brownstone voussoirs. Small narrow windows frame the entrance pavilion with another in the gable above. gable roof with paneled chimney rising through the southwest slope. Like the sills and heads, but the quoins are replaced by simple corner pieces. The main northwest facade, facing Library Lane, features a three-sided conical-roofed bay to the left and a three-part window to the right. The bay echoes elements of the original building in its form, windows, copper egg and dart cornice, and use of a diaper pattern panel, this time executive in blue enamel brick headers. A paired window with transoms is located in the gable. A single narrow window, projecting on a brownstone bracket, is found to the right.

The asymmetrical northeast elevation is focused on an offset cross-gable pavilion that contains three-part windows at both stories; with transoms added at the upper story. This element is framed by small narrow windows at both stories. Paired windows at both stories are located northeast of the cross-pavilion. The rear southeast elevation is centered on a slightly projecting bay whose form and placement echo the chimney stack on the original building. substantially greater width, four small narrow windows at the second story, copper hood which terminates at the cornice level, proclaim its modernity. Single narrow windows frame the bay at both stories.

The following detailed description of the Eldredge Public Library appeared in the Ninth Report of the Free Public Library Commission of Massachusetts in It is especially valuable for its description of the fine interior features, all of which remain today. The town of Chatham possesses one of the most beautiful library buildings of its size in the State, containing a fine selection of volumes for circulation and a very complete reference library... The building, which cost $40,000, is conveniently located on Main Street and stands in the centre of a large lot, forty feet from the street. The walk up the gentle rise is circular in form and is laid in granolithic stone, starting from either end of the street line. The architecture of the building, which is sixty-seven by thirty-four feet, and one story high, is after the modified Renaissance style, severe rather than ornate.

It is built of red brick, with Longmeadow stone trimmings, and foundations of dark Quincy granite. The roof is covered with green slate, with red terra-cotta ridges, and the cornices, bay window, roof and conductors are of copper. (continued) United States Department of the Interior sa..National Park Servica Nationai Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet Eldredge Public Library, Chatham, Massachusetts Section number - 7 "Page - The visitor arrives at the wide arched entrance and loggia by a short flight of North River stone. From the loggia, which is four and one-half by eleven feet, is another step to the vestibule on the main floor. This is of the same size as the loggia. The floor is laid in Italian marble mosaic and the walls are of white enamelled brick, with trimmings of Indiana limestone.

The vestibule doors and the windows on either side have lights of clear glass set in bronze bars. The ceilings of both are of quartered oak with richly carved panels and cornices. ao cetl nge T ere watl on the left of the vestibule is a handsome tablet of bronze metal, bearing the following inscription: ELDREDGE LIBRARY. A.D. MDCCCXCV. the vestibule is the entrance hall, twelve by twenty feet. This is lighted at the end opposite to the entrance by two handsome stained glass windows, in which appear solid medallion fac-similies of the marks of two earlier Italian bookmakers, I. Givnta and Aldvs. To the right of the hall is the reading-room, eighteen by thirty feet and sixteen and one-half feet high. The wide entrance has sliding glass onet the ea of the tatretor dea e.

doors, over which is an arch containing lights of clear glass, set in The massive oak mantel in this room is one of the gems of the interior decorations, the carving out of the solid wood having cost hundreds of dollars. At the left of the entrance hall is the delivery space twelve by twelve feet, and leading from this is the reference room, eleven by fifteen feet, having a capacity for 550 volumes. The stack room, beyond the delivery room, is finished after the alcove system. It is two stories high, with four large alcoves in each story, a gallery connecting the two sides, and has an estimated capacity for 12,000 volumes. The interior of the building is wainscotted nine feet high in quartered oak. Above the wood work the walls are tinted a grayish green. In the ceilings the oak beams and cornices are exposed, and the plaster panels between are of a rich cream tint.

The floors are of quartered oak, made to order from special design. Every attention has been given to securing good light and perfect ventilation. The large chandeliers were made for the library, and are handsome and appropriate. The facilities for heating with hot air are of the best. Archaeological Description While no prehistoric sites are currently recorded on the property, it is possible that sites are present. Fourteen sites are recorded within one mile of the library indicating sites are present in the local area. In general, however the potential for recovering prehistoric sites is low because of the parcel's poor locational criteria, particularly its distance from water of over 300 meters. The size of the parcel (.5 acre) and related library construction on it also supports this conclusion. The potential for (continued) Eldredge Public Library Name of Property 8.

Statement of Significance

Statement of significance

Applicable National Register Criteria (Mark "x" in one or more boxes for the criteria qualifying the property for National Register listing.) IX A Property is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history. - B Property is associated with the lives of persons significant in our past. X C Property embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction or represents the work of a master, or possesses high artistic values, or represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components lack individual distinction. - D Property has yielded, or is likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history. Criteria Considerations (Mark "x" in all the boxes that apply.) Property is: - A owned by a religious institution or used for religious purposes. - B removed from its original location.

- C a birthplace or grave. - D a cemetery. - E a reconstructed building, object, or structure. - F a commemorative property. - G less than 50 years of age or achieved significance within the past 50 years. BounyandSle County, Massachusetts reas of Significanc inter categories from instructior ARCHITECTURE EDUCATION Period of Significance 1896-1942 Significant Dates 1896 Significant Person (Complete if Criterion B is marked above) N/A Cultural Affiliation N/A Architect/Builder Marble, Albion M. Narrative Statement of Significance (Explain the significance of the property on one or more continuation sheets.) 9.

The rest of the file

Bibliography, boundary description, and the people who prepared and reviewed the nomination.

Major Bibliographical References Bibilography (Cite the books, articles, and other sources used in preparing this form on one or more continuation sheets.) Previous documentation on file (NPS): Primary location of additional data: - preliminary determination of individual listing (36 X State Historic Preservation Office CFR 67) has been requested - Other State agency - previously listed in the National Register - Federal agency - previously determined eligible by the National Xl Local government Register - University - designated a National Historic Landmark - Other -recorded by Historic American Buildings Survey Name of repository: # Massachusetts Historical Commission L recorded by Historic American Engineering Eldredge Public Library Record # Eldredge Public Library Name of Property Barnstable County, Massachusetts County and State 10.

Geographical Data Acreage of Property - .5 acre (1/2 acre) UTM References (Place additional UTM references on a continuation sheet.) 1 1,9 Zone 2 L1 420181 Easting 4614610 Northing 3 Zone Easting Northing 4 See continuation sheet Verbal Boundary Description (Describe the boundaries of the property on a continuation sheet.) Boundary Justification (Explain why the boundaries were selected on a continuation sheet.) 11.

Form Prepared By Candace Jenkins, Preservation Consultant for the Chatham Historical Commission name/title with Betsy Friedberg, MHC National Register Director organization_Massachusetts Historical Commission date March 1992 street & number 80 Boylst.on Street _ telephone (617) 727-8470 city or town - Boston Additional Documentation Submit the following items with the completed form: state MA zip code 02116 Continuation Sheets Maps A USGS map (7.5 or 15 minute series) indicating the property's location. A Sketch map for historic districts and properties having large acreage or numerous resources. Photographs Representative black and white photographs of the property. Additional items (Check with the SHPO or FPO for any additional items) Property Owner (Complete this item at the request of SHPO or FPO.) name Town of Chatham street & number. 549 Main Street - telephone .

(508) 945-2100 city or town Chatham state MA zip code 02633 Paperwork Reduction Act Statement: This information is being collected for applications to the National Register of Historic Places to nominate properties for listing or determine eligibility for listing, to list properties, and to amend existing listings. Response to this request is required to obtain a benefit in accordance with the National Historic Preservation Act, as amended (16 U.S.C. 470 et seq.). Estimated Burden Statement: Public reporting burden for this form is estimated to average 18.1 hours per response including time for reviewing instructions, gathering and maintaining data, and completing and reviewing the form. Direct comments regarding this burden estimate or any aspect of this form to the Chief, Administrative Services Division,National Park Service, P.O.

Box 37127, Washington, DC 20013-7127; and the Office of Management and Budget, Paperwork Reductions Projects (1024-0018), Washington, DC 20503. soarores Ma. 10960018 United States Department of the intarior National Park Service Nationai Register of Historic Piaces Continuatlon Sheet Eldredge Public Library, Chatham, Massachuset.ts Section number 1, 8 "Page 5, 1 significant historic period survivals is also low because of library construction, the smail size of the parcel and, because historic land use which predates 1ibrary constructions has not been identified on the parcel. (end) STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE The Eldredge Public Library of 1896 possesses integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and associations. It was donated to the town by native son and wealthy Portsmouth, New Hampshire brewer, Marcellus Eldredge to improve educational opportunities.

Eldredge's gift brought Chatham into step with the scores of other communities that were recognizing the importance of books and abstract knowledge through the construction of libraries at the turn-of-the-century. The new building, designed by Fall River architect Albion M. Marble, is a finely crafted example of the Romanesque Revival style that was so popular for libraries of that period. Soon after completion, the Massachusetts Public Library Commission described the Eldredge Public Library as "one of the most beautiful library buildings of its size in the State" (9th Annual Report, 1899:72). Thus, the Eldredge Public Library meets criteria A and C of the National Register of Historic Places, and is significant on the local level.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries were a period of economic and population decline for Chatham, and the Eldredge Public Library is without question the most important public building constructed during that period. Furthermore, it is the only fully developed example of the Romanesque Revival style in Chatham, an is one of the finest examples of that style in Barnstable County. The Massachusetts Historical Commission regional study of Cape Cod and the Islands notes that three regional towns constructed libraries in the 1860s and 1870s including Brewster (1868; Stick Style), Yarmouth (1870), and Orleans (1877; Tudor Revival). The Chatham Library was part of a second wave of library construction that occurred in the 1890s, and also included Dennis (1895), West Falmouth (1895-96; Shingle Style; Stephen Earle), Eastham (1897), and Bourne (1897; Colonial Revival) (MHC 1987:221-222).

The Eldredge Public Library has served as the town's main library since its opening on July 11, 1896. According to the terms of its original charter, it is required to remain a library in perpetuity. In the 1890s Chatham was a small remote fishing and farming village on Cape Cod, a region of Massachusetts whose economy had faltered in the mid 19th century along with the various maritime enterprises that made up its base. Chatham's population dropped from a high of 2,710 in 1860 to approximately 1,800 in 1896, a year when a total of $15,384.88 in taxes was collected (Ives, 1991:1/2). At that time, two small one-room libraries existed in Chatham. One was the Pilgrim Library of 1875 in South Chatham.

The other was the (continued) parord Me, 10060018 Pom 100001 Unitea States Departmant of the Interior National Park Service Nationai Register of Historlc Piaces Continuation Sheet Eldredge Public Library, Chatham, Massachusetts Section number . -Page - Chatham Public Library and Reading Room which had been founded in 1887 as an informal library association for Chatham Village (Ives, 1991:1/4-5). Thus, when Marcellus Eldredge offered to construct a library for the town, his gift was most welcome. Marcellus Eldredge was born in Chatham on November 24, 1838, lived in the house at 135 Main Street, and attended public school there. Upon completion of his education at age 14, Marcellus moved to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, where he served as a clerk in his father's grain business. In 1858 he became a clerk at M.

Fisher and Company, a small brewery, and soon thereafter was appointed general manager. In 1870, Fisher sold the company to Marcellus and his father Heman. With Marcellus as president and treasurer, the Eldredge Brewing Company expanded to become the second largest brewery in New England. During this period, Marcellus was also active politically serving as both New Hampshire State Senator, and Mayor of Portsmouth. In 1891, he sold the company to his younger brother Heman Fisher Eldredge (Ives, 1991:1/5-6). Marcellus did not forget his native town of Chatham, and remained involved there as one of the largest stockholders of the Chatham Railroad Company, as a major donor to the Chatham Methodist Church, and as the owner of a large estate on Watch Hill overlooking the harbor.

Perhaps persuaded by his nieces who were avid supporters of the Chatham Public Library and Reading Room, Marcellus decided to benefit his birthplace through donation of an up-to-date library (Ives, 1991:1/6). He bought the existing library lot from Daniel w Nickerson on April 18, 1895 for $1,000 (Barnstable County Deeds:216/358), and selected Albion M. Marble, a little known architect from Fall River to design the building. Marble may have been recommended by George Rankin, the Fall River librarian who advised Eldredge on the original selection of books for the library. The only other building currently attributed to Marble in the statewide inventory is the Bristol County Registry of Deeds in Taunton. With a capacity of 12,000 volumes, the building took one year to complete at a cost of over $30,000. It was incorporated by Chapter 491 of the Acts of 1896 (Ives, 1991:1/10-11).

Upon completion of the new library, dedication ceremonies were held on July 4, 1896. Speaking at that event, Eldredge explained the reason for his gift. Until within a few years, the opportunities for reading afforded the children who grew up here with me and those of you now of mature years, were not only limited but almost wholly wanting. Books of interest and instruction were but little circulated in our country towns, and we had but little opportunity to read the literature of the time or of the past, or to learn what was going on in the great world about us.

(cont inued) - 100000 United States Department of the interior National Park Service Natlonai Register of Historlc Piaces Continuation Sheet Eldredge Public Library, Chatham, Massachusetts Section number -Page - And so, deeply realizing, from my own experience, the great misfortune it is to the children and youth not to have proper facilities for reading and learning the history of the past and the events of the present, I have felt that I could do no greater service to my native town and the many friends I have here, than by establishing this library to aid in bringing into our midst the means for education and knowledge which were denied to me and many of you in the years gone by. (Chatham Monitor; 7/14/96) The library formally opened to the public on July 11, 1896 and Marcellus conveyed the land and building to the Eldredge Public Library Corporation for $1 on August 1, 1896.

Shortly thereafter, an endowment for the new library 9o. shortay thoreatior was established by transferring the assets of the Chatham Public Library and Reading Room which included the $9000 Isaac Loveland Fund, and the unexpended balance of that year's town appropriation. Additionally, Marcellus and his brother H. Fisher each donated $2,500 worth of 4% government bonds to create the Eldredge Fund. The library charter also allowed the town to appropriate $1 for each taxable poll for operating expenses. The five Incorporators appointed themselves as the Board of Directors with Marcellus Eldredge as president and treasurer, and his brother H. Fisher Eldredge as vice-president (Ives, 1991:2/2-5).

Rules and regulations adopted at the first board meeting allowed borrowing privileges to any resident over 14 years of age who had been issued a fourteen days, established a fine of two cents per day for late books and a replacement system for lost books, excluded reference and rare books from borrowing, and required patrons to "demean themselves quietly" (Minutes of the Board of Director, 7/11/1896). The library opened with a collection of over 2,000 books including the former holdings of the Chatham Public Library and Reading Room, a large number of reference books donated by Mrs. Eldredge, and a miscellaneous collection given by H. Fisher Eldredge. The first year's circulation, from July 11, 1896 to July 11, 1897, was an impressive 11,738 books. In addition to books, fifteen periodicals were also available.

These included Harper's Magazine, Christian Leader, Cosmopolitan, Youth's Companion, and Massachusetts Ploughman as well as the local Chatham Monitor. The first librarian was Marcellus' niece Mary E. Byram of Wellington (Medford), MA, who served until just after her uncle's untimely death on March 12, 1898 (Ives, 1991:2/5-11). Marcellus left $20,000 to the library to be invested as a permanent fund known as the Eldredge Legacy (Ives, 1991:2-12). His cousin, Richard B. Harding of Cambridge was elected to fill his place as an Incorporator and Director, while his brother H. Fisher was elected as the new president and treasurer.

Marcellus' death left a void in the leadership, however, which his brother was unable to fulfil as a distant resident of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and busy (continued) rasrons Mo 10860010 MPG Pam 100000 (-00) United States Department of the Interlor National Park Servics Nationai Register of Historlc Places Continuation Sheet Eldredge Public Library, Chatham, Massachusetts Section number - -Page _4 proprietor of the Eldredge Brewing Company. H. Fisher finally submitted a letter of resignation to the Board on September 13, 1899. Richard Harding succeeded him as president and treasurer. During that year, with a budget of $805.83, the number of volumes in the library increased to 3,382, while circulation decreased somewhat to 8,492 (Ives, 1991:3/1,7,9,13). Little changed at the library until 1909, when newly appointed librarian George H.

Adams, suggested several changes including the trial institution of an open shelf system, the use of date slips and stamps for keeping better track of books, culling out of worthless books, and restricted circulation of some books. The open shelf system, stamping, and discretion in the circulation of some books was approved by the Board of Directors. The Board also decided to look into changing the coal furnace to a gas-fired steam heating system. In 1910 it was noted that a hot water heating system and an acetylene gas lighting system had been installed. In that year the town population declined to 1,564 while the library collection grew to 5,200 volumes, with a circulation of 9,500 (Ives 1991: 5/3-7). Edna Mary Hardy was appointed as the fifth librarian in 1911. Like her predecessors, she lacked formal training, but she differed in the longevity of her service.

Despite her near deafness, Miss Hardy remained as the head librarian for forty-three years until her retirement at age 70 in 1953 (Ives, 1991, 6/1-2). An open house was held at that time to honor her devotion and service. During her tenure several improvement were made to the building, including installation of electricity in 1917. The library collection also continued to grow, through both purchase and gift from 5,510 volumes in 1911 to 12,300 in 1953. Circulation rose from to 14,042 in 1922, to 18,172 in 1930, to 16,020 in 1940, and to 20,980 by 1953. In 1933 it was noted that circulation dropped during the summer months because there were fewer summer visitors, and fewer hotel employees (Eldredge Public Library files). In 1967, over 400 new cards were issued to year round residents, with an additional 700 to summer visitors, while circulation reached 33,313.

Finally, in 1968, a rear wing was constructed that added 1,625 square feet of space, and increased capacity from the originally 12,000 volumes to 20,658. The interior frames of windows covered by the addition remained in place. The wing was designed by the firm of Alger and Gunn of Hyannis at a cost öf $80,000. The interior was painted pale blue-green with wood fixtures of a special light-grained oak. The rug was a light mottled green while the librarian's desk was light-grained oak with a white mottled gold top. A more efficient heating system was installed at the same time. Additionally, the ivy that had covered the building since the 1910, was removed. (Eldredge Library files). In 1989 Chatham received a grant from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners to enlarge the Eldredge Public Library from a capacity of approximately 25,000 volumes to 50,000.

The architectural firm of A. Anthony (continued) saroras 106000 United States Department of the interior National Park Service Nationai Register of Historlc Places Continuation Sheet Section number®, 9, 10 "Page ", 1, 1 Eldredge Public Library Chatham, MAssachusetts Tappe and Associates of Boston was selected to design an addition that would complement the original structure. The plans for the new addition and the reconstruction of the 1968 addition, were reviewed and approved by the Massachusetts Historical Commission in 1988. Construction began in 1991 and is scheduled for completion in the spring of 1992. At the same time, the old building was cleaned according to preservation standards.

Despite the additions to the library in recent years, through sympathetic design and use of similar materials, it is believed the additions do not diminish the Library's architectural or historical significance, which make it eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. (end) Bibliography (section 9) Chatham Monitor. "The Eldredge Public Library Dedicated". 7/14/1896. Eldredge Public Library. Vertical files. Free Public Library Commission. Ninth Annual Report. Wright & Potter Co. Boston. 1899. Ives, Josephine P. History of the Eldredge Public Library. Draft Manuscript. 1991. Jenkins, Candace/Chatham Historical Commission. Chatham Narrative History- 1991. Massachusetts Historical Commission. Chatham Reconnaissance Survey Report. 1984. Massachusetts Historical Commission. Historic and Archaeological Resources of Cape Cod and the Islands. 1987.

(end) Verbal Boundary Description (section 10) Please refer to the attached assessors' map. The 1ibrary occupies lot 15D-105; scale 1" = 80'. Boundary Justification The nomination is confined to the lot presently and historically occupied by the library building. (end) (TRR 11 1061 FEB. 16 1958 APR 1 6 1976 3 577 564 KING 4919/3598 201 DALY 2ss:/86 -106 M.air; Bacislablcomt (- PETERSON 4958/069 CHARLESWARTA MLKEWeN 1893/13L MACNOSSA DETERSON rache 4775/5 bogotoss 4521/10: 4779,20 HORNE 3204/74 Buts RUEGELI 2231/ PORITAN 1490/717 FIRST METHODIST CHURCH 45/224 ELDREDGE, PUBLIC LIBRARY AVEN 10E CADE COD 610/33 SA S1 SAVIN 350 SANINE ANE W CROPLEY 653(462 KBERR CAPE FNE CORP -HATNAM! Conis. FoN. 2414 /23 poo CODEGA 0.40 3979/230 CRAY 249/239 O ATHAM BO Town HALL" MEIER 0.17 13779/224 WEINKOPF TR.

CHATHAM 541/445 GRAY 2551/i60 CASALE 3500/45 OFOLATHAM 37,35 GRAY =9:6/31 CHA BA.F CROCKFT 2553/82 IAVIS 26/8/11 GREGEPIAN 4q3411920 MADDEN 845/153 83. 6334/244 ISYLVESTE 1=71L CARTER 416/223 121-59 TOWN OF CHATHAM CE 80 WerR-C 4=57/12 MORRIS 4uäb/360 B3 MEDONALD 1291/155 71 SLABY 2248/340 00 FORREST| -625/41 BLADEN 728/3:2 CHALKER 3097/135 DRESSER 650/184 CHATHA SQUIRE SHASHOUA CTF. b27TowN of CHATNAM (WATER DIST. 4811/1 Rormany 386185g MER LaNa 716/ 358 à HORNE CTr. 18763 32=ia BHATTUCK 79 CCLEM HOWES 1230/318 SHEPARD 1286/21 STELLO 1005/252 ARNOLD 1387/33 PLACE ROCKWELL 1484/108 CRAYEN 1286/221 CARLSON 2944/332 COFFIN -3432/ ROMKEY 152 PARK 2109/37 TOWN CHATHAM CHATHAM CHATI GUILD 1180/131 CANCON NICKERSON TRUSTEO28 6256/223,0 TORIART $17/06 CHARL: PETERSON 2033/31.

wHr 43 203: ELDREUGE 1071/585 COSTELLO 53750/11 13e ELDREDGE PUBLIC LIBRARY 564 MAIN STREET CHATHAM, MA CORNER OF MAIN STREET & LIBRARY LANE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR NATIONAL PARK SERVICE NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES EVALUATION/RETURN SHEET REQUESTED ACTION: NOMINATION PROPERTY Eldredge Public Library NAME: MULTIPLE NAME: STATE & COUNTY: MASSACHUSETTS, Barnstable DATE RECEIVED: DATE OF 16TH DAY: DATE OF WEEKLY LIST: 3/27/92 4/26/92 DATE OF PENDING LIST: 4/10/92 DATE OF 45TH DAY: 5/11/92 REFERENCE NUMBER: 92000430 NOMINATOR: STATE REASONS FOR REVIEW: APPEAL: DATA PROBLEM: N LANDSCAPE: N LESS THAN 50 YEARS: OTHER : PDIL: PERIOD: PROGRAM UNAPPROVED: REQUEST: N SAMPLE: N SLR DRAFT: N NATIONAL: COMMENT WAIVER: N ACCEPT RETURN _RRNECT 4/25/92 _DATE intered in the National Bagdates ABSTRACT/SUMMARY COMMENTS: RECOM./CRITERIA REVIEWER DISCIPLINE DATE DOCUMENTATION see attached comments Y/N see attached SLR Y/N CLASSIFICATION _count resource type STATE/FEDERAL AGENCY CERTIFICATION FUNCTION historic current DESCRIPTION architectural classification materials descriptive text SIGNIFICANCE Period Areas of Significance--Check and justify below Specific dates Builder/Architect Statement of Significance (in one paragraph) _summary paragraph _completeness _clarity _applicable criteria justification of areas checked relating significance to the resource context _relationship of integrity to significance justification of exception _other BIBLIOGRAPHY GEOGRAPHICAL DATA _acreage UTMS -verbal boundary description _boundary justification ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTATION/PRESENTATION sketch maps _USGS maps photographs OTHER COMMENTS Questions concerning this nomination may be directed to Phone _presentation Signed Date ELDREDEE PUBLK LIBRNET 564 MAN ST CHATHAM, MA 02633 PHOTOGOACHER: CANDACE IENLINS DATE: NOVEMBER 1991 PHOTO#1 OF1 RECEIOE MAR 2 7 1992 NATIONAL REGISTER March 13, 1992 M * "COMMISSIOLY PLACIDAM ESVB LIBERY 1 Comi rali 1o 4e) Carol Shull National Register of Historic Places National Park Service P.O.

Box 37127 Washington, DC 20013-7127 Dear Ms. Shull: Enclosed you will find the following nomination form: Eldredge Public Library, 564 Main Street, Chatham (Barnstable County), Massachusetts 02633. The nomination was voted eligible by the State Review Board and is signed by myself, as the State Historic Preservation Officer. Owners were notified of pending State Review Board consideration 30-75 days before the meeting and were afforded the opportunity to comment. No comments have been received to date. Sincerely, dntzB. MeDonongh Judith B. McDonough Executive Director Massachusetts Historical Commission State Historic Preservation Officer enclosure cc: Norman Pacun, Chairman, Chatham Historical Commission Norman Howes, Chairman, Chatham Board of Selectmen Candace Jenkins, Preservation Consultant Massachusetts Historical Commission, Judith B.

McDonough, Executive Director, State Historic Preservation Officer 80 Boylston Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02116 (617) 727-8470 Office of the Secretary of State, Michael J. Connolly, Secretary ECEIVE APR 1 3 1992 NATIONAL REGISTER 1D) April 1, 1992 * COMMISSIONA * 1 ( ke) Carol Shull National Register of Historic Places National Park Service P.O. Box 37127 Washington, DC 20013-7127 ATTN: Guy Lapsley Dear Ms. Shull: Enclosed you will find a U.S.G.S. map for the following nomination: Eldredge Public Library, 564 Main Street, Chatham (Barnstable County), Massachusetts 02633. With the enclosed map, the nomination should be considered complete. If you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact either Betsy Friedberg, National Register Director, or myself at this office. Sincerely, DEtt KELENEP Douglas J.

Kelleher National Register Assistant Massachusetts Historical Commission enclosure Massachusetts Historical Commission, Judith B. McDonough, Executive Director, State Historic Preservation Officer 80 Boylston Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02116 (617) 727-8470 Office of the Secretary of State, MichaelJ. Connolly, Secretary