On the morning of Saturday, August 13, 2005, at 11:00 a.m. after the Summerfest parade, a large crowd gathered in front of the La Harpe Carnegie Public Library to watch and listen as history was revealed and the copper box was removed from the cornerstone of our library.
The crowd was welcomed by Pam Sparrow, Library Board President, and La Harpe Public Library Director Monica Carpenter spoke briefly, followed by Dan Gillett of the La Harpe Historical Society who read about the history of our library.
The cornerstone was removed by Phil Carpenter, husband of Monica Carpenter and her brother, Marty McKee and the green copper box from September 25, 1905, was removed and Director Monica Carpenter and President Pam Sparrow then proceeded to examine the fragile contents inside as the crowd gathered around to get a glimpse or take photos.
Inside the box were four different newspapers, one was The Quill, others were the La Harper, the La Harpe Daily Times and the La Harpe Times.
Dan Gillett read some excerpts from The Quill and the other papers. In 1905 the cost of a pair of pants was $2.80, street hats were from $1.00 to $4.00 and a subscription for 1 year to the La Harpe Daily Times was only $1.00.
Many of the papers in the box were either very fragile or deteriorated because the box wasn't sealed, but a letter about the history of La Harpe was found indicating there were 1,600 residents at that time and five churches. Two were Methodist, a Congressional Church, an Episcopal Church and a Presbyterian Church.
There were also a list of city officials in 1905 including the mayor of La Harpe, C. A. Knappenberger, city Clerk, W. E. Miller, the police, boiler inspector and sealer of weights and measures.
In September, 1905, the Carnegie Library was completed, the dedication was held in April, 1906 and 100 years later the residents were there to witness the uncovering of history.
Refreshments were served in the basement of the library after the ceremony and memorabilia was on display for the public to view.
Our town appreciates the La Harpe Carnegie Library, it's director, board members and staff for all the effort they put forth in bringing us the quality facility where we can enjoy and learn.
Dan Gillett with old Quill