PCAD - City of Pasadena, Public Library, Main Library #2, Pasadena, CA

Postcard view of the Pasadena Public Library #2, Pasadena, c. 1910; from the author's collection, postcard by the Newman Postcard Company, Los Angeles, CA

Postcard view of the Pasadena Public Library Main Library, Pasadena, c. 1910; from the author's collection, postcard by the Williamson-Haffner Company, Denver, CO

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East Walnut Street and North Raymond Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91103

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This library stood on the southeast corner of Walnut Street and Raymond Avenue; this is now part of Memorial Park.

Building History

This second Pasadena Central Library opened to serve the rapidly-growing community at Walnut Street and Raymond Street on 09/09/1890. The building, built of stone, had the look of the Chateauesque Style mixed with the manner of H.H. Richardson. Diverse in form, it featured a corner turret with a candle-snuffer roof, various kinds of gables, and an arched entryway. The entryway bears the date July 4, 1887. The building served as the central library from 1890-1927, when it was superceded by Myron Hunt's new building.

Building Notes

The Library stood nearby a small public park with a gazebo.

Alteration

This building was added onto in 1901.

Demolition

The library was badly damaged in the 1933 Long Beach Earthquake and condemned thereafter. It was finally demolished in 1954. The City of Pasadena restored the main entryway arch in 09/09/1955 as a memorial to Pasadena's early citizens who founded the library. This arch was severely damaged by the 1994 Northridge Earthquake.

PCAD id: 6848

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Central Library Architecture City Landmarks

City of Pasadena, Public Library, Main Library #2, Pasadena, CA (1887-1890)

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