On May 16, 2006, the City of Mitchell transferred ownership of the historic Carnegie Library to the Mitchell Area Historical Society (MAHS).
In cooperation with members of the Mitchell Area Genealogical Society (MAGS) and the Mitchell Area Arts Council (MAAC), our MAHS members have devoted many hours of sweat equity to clean the building and grounds at 119 West Third Avenue.
After the rodeo parade on Saturday, July 15, from 1:30 to 5 p.m., the Carnegie Resource Center will be open for its first event -- a display of Mitchell's Corn Palace Stampede Rodeo memorabilia. At the same time, films of historic Mitchell and slides from Jeff Logan's collection will be shown. Visitors may also view in the Carnegie's dome the important mural by Oscar Howe, Native American artist.
The Carnegie Resource Center will serve Mitchell and its visitors by collecting and displaying historic print and photographic documents and memorabilia, aiding in historical and genealogical research, teaching the process of constructing a family tree, providing a setting for cultural and artistic exhibits and performances, and hosting or being a site for various social functions and meetings.
Lastly, but far from least, is the need to preserve this architecturally important quartzite structure for future generations.
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On Feb. 3, 1902, Mitchell attorney Abner Hitchcock read to the City Council a proposal from steel magnate Andrew Carnegie's personal secretary that Mr. Carnegie would give to the City of Mitchell $10,000 to construct a library and that the City should commit $1,000 annually for the library.
The council passed the necessary resolution. Wallace Dow, a respected architect in Sioux Falls, designed the building and Adolph Scheurenbrand, Mitchell contractor, completed it in 1903. In 1930 the main stack room was extended to the south, and in 1962 the southeast side addition was completed which later housed Oscar Howe's art.
Now the Carnegie is entering an era of continued use. With proper care, the building can be a valuable asset to Mitchell for many years.
For information or for a scheduled tour, call 996-3209, the Carnegie Resource Center. Summer hours are 3 to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.
We thank the City of Mitchell and the many persons who have already helped support our efforts.
If you would like to join in this worthwhile project, please call me at 996-3742 or 996-3209.
Come by on July 15 to view the rodeo display!
