Battle Creek in Calhoun County, Michigan — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Willard Library
Battle Creek, Michigan
Photographed By J.T. Lambrou, July 12, 2021
1. Willard Library Marker
Opened on April 27, 1905, the Charles Willard Library building was given to the Battle Creek Schools and community from the estate of Charles Willard. Architect J.C> Llewellyn designed the two-story classical structure, constructing it from terra cotta pressed brick and granite at a cost of $74,500. The interior was finished in mahogany, oak, and marble and crowned with a frosted glass skylight. In 1934 the estate of George B. Willard, nephew of Charles, contributed funds to expand the library to accommodate a larger collection and reading space. In 1969 the library built another 55,000 sq. ft. addition on the west side of the structure. In 2005 that portion of the building houses the main operation of Willard Public Library and the original structure is used by the Battle Creek Public School System as its administrative office.Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Education. A significant historical date for this entry is April 27, 1905.
Location. 42° 19.234′ N, 85° 10.822′ W. Marker is in Battle Creek, Michigan, in Calhoun County. Marker is at the intersection of Capital Avenue Northeast and
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. St. Thomas Episcopal Church (within shouting distance of this marker); St. Philip Roman Catholic Church (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Ward Mill Site / Ward Building Site (about 300 feet away); Michigan Central Depot (about 300 feet away); Battle Creek House (about 700 feet away); Independent Congregational Church (approx. 0.2 miles away); Erastus Hussey: Stationmaster / "Working for Humanity" (approx. 0.2 miles away); Cereal Bowl of America (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Battle Creek.
Photographed By J.T. Lambrou, July 12, 2021
2. Willard Library Marker
Photographed By J.T. Lambrou, July 12, 2021
3. Willard Library Marker
Photographed By J.T. Lambrou, July 12, 2021
4. Willard Library
Original portion of building
Photographed By J.T. Lambrou, July 12, 2021
5. Willard Library
West side of building which was expanded in 1969 and currently houses the public library.
Credits. This page was last revised on July 18, 2021. It was originally submitted on July 17, 2021, by J.T. Lambrou of New Boston, Michigan. This page has been viewed 136 times since then and 30 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. submitted on July 17, 2021, by J.T. Lambrou of New Boston, Michigan. • Mark Hilton was the editor who published this page.
