The Brownell Library was dedicated in Essex Junction on this day in 1926. Hundreds of people came to the dedication, which was held across the street from the new library building on Samuel Brownell’s lawn.

He had donated the money to build the library, but was too ill to attend the dedication ceremony. His son read his speech, while he listened to the proceedings through his bedroom window.

Across the street sat the newly completed library, built of Vermont Marble Company marble, Drury brick, Lake Champlain red stone, and custom bookshelves crafted by the Morgan Brothers of Burlington.

Photo courtesy Images of America: Essex & Essex Junction by Richard & Lucille Allen.