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The Carnegie Library
in Franklin, Texas
by John Troesser |
| Built with a grant
of $7,500 in 1913 the Franklin Library has provided an array of services over
the years. For several years the elementary school across the street conducted
first and second grade classes there and the High School sports teams used the
basement as a dressing room. The basement also served as a domicile for
the school superintendent. |
| | The
Carnegie library in Franklin
TE
photo |
An oil painting of
Mr. Carnegie hangs over the librarian's desk, which may have intimidated more
than a few of the 78 borrowers who have not returned books (the painting -- not
the desk). Next month Texas Escapes will publish these 78 names in
the hope of shaming them into clearing their conscience.
Book fines and
rentals in a recent year totaled $10 and this matched the amount spent on furniture
repairs. Before it was remodeled leaks in the guttering caused water to
enter the basement and it went unused for sometime. Sand was added to absorb
the dampness and reduce the mosquito population. Rumors of frogs, spiders
and snakes were circulated among the school children who had their classes above
and when these rumors reached the ears of the teacher she asked, "How would
anyone know what's there without going down there? You children haven't
been down there have you?" The answer was a resounding but unconvincing
"NOOOOO! " |
| | | This
image of the Franklin Library was drawn by Charles Ellison who owns and operates
a western wear store in Franklin when he's not performing at various country music
venues in Central Texas and still finds time to be mayor of Franklin. |
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