Great-Grandson of 1913 Library Visits Iconic Building

1913 Library Receives Visit from Architect Alfred H. Taylor’s Great-Grandson

November 29, 2021 New Canaan, Conn.—One of New Canaan's historic buildings got a big boost this past weekend. Jon Keepman, great-grandson of Alfred Taylor, architect of the 1913 New Canaan Library, recently visited the building during a stop in New Canaan family, to attend a reception hosted by the New Canaan Preservation Alliance to view plans developed by the nonprofit to transform and repurpose the iconic building. (For more info https://1913library.org/)

Keepman said, "We were all surprised and dismayed when we heard that the original 1913 Library building, which we understood had previously been a landmark building in the town of New Canaan, was set to be demolished in order to plant a lawn."

“However, we are thrilled with the work that has been done to develop plans to hopefully retain the building in situ. We are especially impressed with the goal of installing a glass curtain wall, bringing the outside in, which should both beautifully enhance and complement the new library building."

New Canaan Preservation Alliance president, Neele Banks-Stichnoth, said, “It was wonderful meeting Jon and his family, and we are so pleased that they’re lending their full support to our plan to transform and repurpose our 1913 Library. We’ve just completed our town-wide mailing regarding the possibilities that await the building, and invite all to visit 1913library.org to learn more. We encourage everyone to show their support, contact our Town officials and of course, donate!

Keepman agreed. "Although the building was not the largest project he worked on during his long, productive career, the 1913 New Canaan Library building was one of my great grandfather's very favorites - we have paperwork, files, pertaining to this beautiful building and the craftsmanship which went into building it, " he continued.

"I look forward to working with my family to be certain this important piece of New Canaan's heritage and rich architectural history remains intact for generations to come."

Photo: The Keepman family poses with hosts Susan and Eric Pollish in their mid-century New Canaan home. Pictured from left to right: Jon Keepman, Susan Pollish, Eric Pollish, Lynn Keepman, Peter Keepman.

For more information: https://1913library.org/

Contact: Neele Stichnoth

203-984-9050

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