From the start, the Memorial and Library Association was established as a private nonprofit organization, as opposed to a municipal public library. Local industrialist-inventor, Stephen Wilcox and his wife Harriet, donated the land on which the library is situated, as well as $10,000 for the construction of the building. The remaining cost was matched by citizens of the community. It is a testament to our community that so many individuals chipped in to construct what is arguably the most iconic building in downtown Westerly. This stunning architectural work of art opened to the public in 1894.

In 1898, Harriet Wilcox purchased property surrounding the library and donated the land to the Association to establish Wilcox Park. The park was dedicated in memory of Stephen Wilcox, who sadly pa

See Full Page