The Original Vermilion Library [circa 1940]
UNVEILED August 27, 2020
SPONSORS A Gift from a Generous Patron
SITE Ritter Public Library, 5680 Liberty Avenue
ARTISTS Mike Sekletar
In 1918, Vermilion’s library became official!
The president of Vermilion’s school board, A.C. Hofrichter, appointed the first library board of trustees, making it possible for the town to begin receiving state funds available for public libraries.
In 1920, the Vermilion Public Library began renting space in a building that also housed a photography studio owned by Rudy Moc.
This first official library building was located on the east side of Grand Street just north of the railroad tracks. Historic records state that at an earlier date it had been a blacksmith shop and “The pleasant frame building with the skylight on one side was often referred to as the reading room.”
On December 4, 1920, a formal opening was held and “Mrs. Shaw donated curtains for the windows and the room was set in order for the guests,” Addie Rust reported.
During those first few years, Rust wrote, “The amount from the taxes was not enough to carry on the work so various plans were discussed as to how to increase the funds and several social affairs were given.”
She recorded that “A community party was held in the town hall with refreshments served in the parlors of the Congregational Church, proceeds $20.10; Mrs. W.G. Hauff kindly came to our rescue and on two different occasions gave an entertainment, the proceeds …which she very gladly turned over to the board; and the Good Government League gave $174.50.”
Other donations during those years came from the Sorosis Club and “The Vermilion News,” as well as local residents. In 1929, Moc moved to Lorain and the library board purchased the building on Grand Street for $1,550.
In 1958, a new library was erected on Liberty Avenue and the former location was converted to the police station and jail.
Note: This image is an original mural inspired by a vintage photograph.
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