Texas, Ward County, Barstow
![]()
Vicinity of Early Public Library
The Republic of Texas set a cultural example by legislation for a state library in 1839. In 1874 cities were authorized to establish public libraries, but most were privately financed.
A library near here about 1890 was gift of Miss Anna Gould, a daughter of railroad magnate Jay Gould, when she was visiting the stone quarry 4.5 miles east. She established the library — the first in Ward County, which was not organized until 1892 — for families near the quarry.
Most Texas counties now have free public libraries, since a 1919 law granted this privilege.
(Charity & Public Work) Includes location, directions, 3 photos, GPS coordinates, map.
Vicinity of Early Public Library
The Republic of Texas set a cultural example by legislation for a state library in 1839. In 1874 cities were authorized to establish public libraries, but most were privately financed.
A library near here about 1890 was gift of Miss Anna Gould, a daughter of railroad magnate Jay Gould, when she was visiting the stone quarry 4.5 miles east. She established the library — the first in Ward County, which was not organized until 1892 — for families near the quarry.
Most Texas counties now have free public libraries, since a 1919 law granted this privilege.
(Charity & Public Work) Includes location, directions, 3 photos, GPS coordinates, map.