St. Johnsbury Athenaeum Review

About St. Johnsbury Athenaeum

St. Johnsbury Athenaeum: A Cultural and Educational Hub in Vermont

If you're looking for a place to explore and learn about art, history, literature, and science in Vermont, the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum is a must-visit destination. Founded in 1871 by Horace Fairbanks as a gift to his hometown, the Athenaeum is both a public library and an art gallery that houses over 35,000 books and periodicals as well as more than 1,500 works of art.

Located in the heart of St. Johnsbury's historic district on Main Street, the Athenaeum is an architectural gem that blends Victorian elegance with modern amenities. Its red sandstone facade with Gothic arches and turrets invites visitors to step inside and discover its treasures.

Once inside the building, you'll be greeted by friendly staff who will guide you through its various rooms and collections. The main hall features marble floors, stained glass windows, ornate chandeliers, and comfortable seating areas where you can read or relax.

The library section of the Athenaeum offers a wide range of books for all ages and interests. Whether you're looking for fiction or non-fiction titles on topics such as history, biography, travelogue or poetry; there's something for everyone here.

In addition to its impressive book collection; The St.Johnsbury Athenaeum also has an extensive collection of artwork from renowned artists such as Winslow Homer , Albert Bierstadt ,and Thomas Waterman Wood among others . These paintings are displayed throughout the building's galleries which are open to visitors free of charge.

One notable feature of this cultural institution is its rare book room which houses some unique manuscripts dating back centuries ago . This room contains some rare editions like Shakespeare’s First Folio (1623) , Audubon’s Birds Of America (1827-1838), Dante’s Divine Comedy (1472) among others .

Apart from being a library cum museum ; The St.Johnsbury Athenaeum also hosts several events throughout the year including lectures , concerts , exhibitions etc . These events are open to all members of public regardless if they have membership at this institution or not .

Another attraction within walking distance from The St.Johnsbury Athenaeum is Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium which was founded by Franklin Fairbanks III in honor his grandfather Thaddeus Fairbanks who invented platform scale used worldwide today . This museum has exhibits ranging from natural history specimens like taxidermy animals & birds ; meteorites ; fossils etc along with planetarium shows that take visitors on journey through space .

In conclusion; If you're interested in exploring Vermont's rich cultural heritage while learning something new about art , literature or science then make sure visit The St.Johnsbury Athenaeum during your next trip!