The Cheboygan Carnegie Free Library, located in Cheboygan, Michigan, holds the distinction of being the first building in the city specifically constructed as a library. In 1908, Andrew Carnegie, the famed steel magnate and philanthropist, donated $15,000 for its construction, a sum equivalent to over $450,000 today. Completed in 1913, this building served as Cheboygan’s library until 1966 and remains one of the most historic structures in downtown Cheboygan.
The Carnegie Library was Cheboygan’s first official free library, operating from October 1913 until May 1966. The $15,000 grant from Andrew Carnegie, one of the richest Americans in history, made this possible. After the library ceased operations, the Cheboygan Board of Education utilized the building for office space alongside several small businesses. The structure experienced periods of vacancy before finding new life as a community center, hosting concerts, art galleries, and various events.
Dr. Arthur M. Gerow, the Library Board President and a local entrepreneur, initiated the quest for Carnegie’s grant in 1908. Before the establishment of the Carnegie Library, the library was housed inside a dry goods store operated by Elizabeth A. Lee at 307 N. Main St. Today, no structure exists at this former location.
The Cheboygan Board of Education was awarded a $15,000 grant for a public library, with the city responsible for acquiring land and funding the library’s maintenance and upkeep. The Cheboygan Telephone Company donated land at the intersection of Elm, Huron, and Dresser streets, conveniently located near the newly established high school. The library’s design adhered to Carnegie’s grant stipulations, featuring a lamp post out front, many steps leading to the entrance, and a domed skylight, symbolizing the elevation in learning and enlightenment upon entering.
From October 1913 until May 1966, the Carnegie Free Library served the Cheboygan community. The new library, the Cheboygan Area Public Library, opened at 100 South Bailey Street, a short distance from the Carnegie building.
The original Carnegie building served as the first historical museum from the summer of 1969 until the summer of 1971, after which the museum moved to the old county jail and sheriff’s residence at 404 S. Huron Street.
Over the years, the Carnegie building hosted various occupants, including the Cheboygan Board of Education, a law office, a hairdresser, a dog groomer, and a real estate office. Recently, the building has undergone significant renovations with the support of the community. Today, it functions as a multidimensional community center, continuing its legacy as a place of enlightenment by hosting regular concerts and art galleries. More than a century later, the Cheboygan Carnegie Free Library remains a cherished and vital part of the community.
Northern Lower Peninsula – Boyne City, Cadillac, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, East Jordan, Mancelona, Manistee, Petoskey and Traverse City.
Upper Peninsula – Escanaba, Houghton, Iron Mountain, Ironwood, Ishpeming, Sault Ste. Marie, and Stambaugh (now Iron River).