Bridgewater
Connecticut
Burnham Library
History:
The Bridgewater Library Association was established in l904, but it wasn’t until l909, when a room for library purposes was established at the recently built town hall, that the first public library in Bridgewater was born. Mabelle Sanford, a member of a prominent Bridgewater family, was a driving force behind this effort. She sent out subscriptions to many people who were associated with the town. Among them was Captain William Dixon Burnham.
Captain Burnham, who was born in Litchfield in l847, had lived in Bridgewater and in Sharon as a boy and all his life he retained fond memories of these towns. When he was fourteen years old, he went to sea and ultimately became a shipmaster. Burnham made many voyages around the world and, after the annexation of the Hawaiian Islands in l898, was instrumental in establishing the American-Hawaiian Steamship Company. As the fortunes of this company prospered, so did those of Burnham, who was the general manager.
Recent News
Betsy Duckworth with 'Florabugs' Art Exhibit
Bridgewater, CT - Burnham Library presents “Florabugs,” an enchanting art exhibition by local artist Betsy Duckworth. The inspiration for Florabugs © began when Betsy’s son, Dash, was about three years old. While playing…
Read More »Memory Care Kits and Care Partner Support Project
Memory Care Kits and Care Partner Support Project Bridgewater, CT - December 30, 2023 Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT - Burnham Library is thrilled to announce the launch of a new initiative aimed at fostering inclusivity and support for…
Read More »Burnham Library News - December 14, 2023
The Burnham Library announces a new art show, “The Pencil”, a collection of works by Liotta Studios of New Milford. The show will run from January 2 through February 17, 2024. Artist Clayton Liotta has worked in countless different…
Read More »Afghan Artists Showcased at Burnham Library
The Burnham Library proudly presents an exhibition featuring the remarkable works of two Afghan artists, Matin Malikzada and Alibaba Awrang. This extraordinary showcase will run from December 3 to 31, 2023, providing a unique opportunity for the…
Read More »Burnham Library News - September 16, 2023
The Burnham Library announces a new art show opening October 3rd and running through November 15th. “A World of Collage”, with hand cut collage work by local resident Paula West. Paula uses imagery from vintage magazines, books and…
Read More »Burnham Library News - September 5, 2023
Three Different Approaches to Meditation with Dr. Wendy Hurwitz Did you know that meditation may help alleviate stress, improve clarity, and improve sleep? Meditation also induces the relaxation response, a state that promotes healing and…
Read More »The Burnham Library News - June 26, 2023
The show is entitled “ Conversations with Nature”. This is what Millones has to say: “For me, nature is an inexhaustible source of inspiration. I’m fascinated by skies, vast lands, and the presence of water. Having been an…
Read More »The Burnham Library News - June 16, 2023
The Burnham Library announces a show by artist Katushka Millones, entitled, “Conversations With Nature”. Contemporary artist Millones will be showcasing her latest works at the Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Bridgewater, CT. A…
Read More »The Burnham Library News - May 24, 2023
Art works in oils by Bridgewater resident Edward M. Alt will be on display at the Burnham Library from May 30th through June 30th, 2023. Mr. Alt has been a student of local resident Ed Little. A reception, open to the public,will be held on Sunday,…
Read More »The Burnham Library News - March 31, 2023
Earth Day 2023 Celebration Saturday, April 22, 2023, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, presents in partnership with the Roxbury/Bridgewater Garden Club a day of earth friendly activities for Earth Day 2023! Festivities kick-off at 10:00 am with…
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