Tyrrell Historical Library

The Tyrrell Historical Library is a public library in Beaumont, Texas. Originally built in 1903 to serve as the First Baptist Church, the building displays a mix of Richardsonian Romanesque and Victorian Gothic architectures, with pointed arch windows and quatrefoils, and all of its original stained glass. The building became vacant in 1923 when the congregation moved to a new location. It was bought by Captain W. C. Tyrrell, who donated the building to the city for use as its first public library. The building is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and also as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark.[2][3] It is also a contributing property to the Downtown Historic District.

Tyrrell Public Library
Tyrrell Library in 2009
Tyrrell Public Library
Tyrrell Public Library
Location695 Pearl St.,
Beaumont, Texas
Coordinates30°04′56″N 94°05′48″W
Arealess than one acre
Built1903 (1903)
ArchitectAlonzo N. Dawson
Architectural styleRichardsonian Romanesque
Part ofBeaumont Commercial District (ID78002959[1])
RTHL No.10578
Significant dates
Designated CPApril 14, 1978
Designated RTHL1976

After renovations, the library opened in 1926, serving as the main public library until 1974. Following construction of a new facility, this one was renamed as the "Tyrrell Historical Library," in honor of the philanthropist. It is the center repository of extensive genealogical archives and the library maintains a hallmark Texana collection. It was remodeled with systems upgrades in 1990. An addition was constructed in 2010, reflecting the main building's style without trying to recreate it.

See also

References
  1. "National Register Information System". National Register of Historic Places. National Park Service. November 2, 2013.
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