Library, Ogdensburg, New York

[LIB11118]

While library service in Ogdensburg dates back to at least 1828, the library moved into its present location, a Victorian mansion, in 1895.  A remodel in 1921-1922, intended to transform the exterior, resulted in a fire during the construction process that destroyed much of the interior.  Fortunately, most of the collection had already been removed, and what remained was stored in a fireproof vault.  While some were damaged by water, the cost to the library - and to history - could have been much greater.  The items in the vault were part of the Remington Indian Collection, donated by Frederic Remington's widow Eva, currently housed in the museum across Washington Street from the library and the impetus behind the building's remodel. [Website]