In 1906, the people of Eugene opened their new public library with a grant from the one of the wealthiest men in the world, industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. Beginning in 1886, Carnegie funded 1,689 public and academic libraries in the United States alone. Between 1906 and1921, 31 of these libraries were constructed in Oregon.  Historian Darrell Jabin details how these libraries came to be, and shares stories of community efforts to open them, including pictures of these stately buildings, many of which are still in use today.  

Darrell Jabin, "Oregon's Traveling Historian," has been researching and sharing unique local history since 2009. Darrell's award-winning videos have a growing audience on social media, and he is a prolific history speaker with over 500 presentations and counting. 

Enjoy 15% off your hotel stay on History Pub nights! Show your ticket at check-in.

These events are open to everyone interested in Pacific Northwest history, and beyond! Often co-sponsored by local or state historical and civic organizations, we bring you experts, scholars, first-person experiencers, historians and documentaries expounding on topics from indigenous history to the birth of Portland, early explorers to hop growing, and on and on! It's like being back in the classroom - except this time you get to settle into comfortable seats and enjoy a drink or two with dinner while you listen and learn.

This event is eligible for a History Pub Stamp