Haston Free Public Library Through the Years
Haston
Library
1894
Our
Story
"It seems that the writer came to North Brookfield to reside a year or so earlier than Mr. Haston did, and thus had opportunity to know him and his business methods and manly qualities for over 50 years. An early formed and unchanged opinion of him was that he was a modest, honest, truthful, industrious and genial man.
It was soon apparent that he not only knew how to accumulate property, but how to preserve it, so that nothing went to waste. And while he did not deny himself or his family the necessaries and comforts of life, nothing was expended for vain show; the surplus being carefully laid by for future use. Not a few of his fellow townsmen, doubtless, are surprised that he and his industrious and prudent companion have saved up so much as to be now able to make such a magnificent gift to the town of their adoption.
How did Mr. Haston get his money? Well, he did not gain it by speculation, nor by usurious interest, nor by overreaching those with whom he traded. Coupled with his careful and economical habits he has ever been blessed far above the average of his fellows with a sound judgment as to the value and management of all kinds of property in which he allowed himself to deal. If he was to buy an animal he looked it over and tested it until he was satisfied what he could afford to pay for it, and the price was then unalterably fixed. If he had property to sell he arrived at the price to be asked intelligently and honesty, and such was the confidences reposed in him that the other party to the trade was satisfied.
If his judgment as to the worth of an article could be known, the person who desired to buy that article of him or any one else felt it to be safe for him to invest at such appraisal. While many of us spend what we earn over and above our absolute needs for articles and in ways which give but small if any returns, Mr. Haston saved all his surplus, not knowing for whose benefit it might ultimately be applied. In the Providence of God, his children (two sons) were taken from him by early death. And as among a large circle of more distant relatives he probably finds few if any who are in need of his benefactions, he has been pleased to build his monument by the erection of a beautiful and lasting structure to be used as a Town Library Building. As the young people of the town will be especially benefited by the gift, may they not wisely ask themselves if in some degree at least they ought not also to profit by so worthy an example of industry, frugality and integrity. "
- Hiram Knight
North Brookfield Journal
Friday, September 20, 1892
An Honorable Life Ended.
Death of Erasmus Haston.
By many of our readers it has been known that Mr. Haston has been in failing health ever since last October, but his indomitable will and rugged constitution has kept him up, so that he has been frequently seen upon our streets even up to last Monday, when he was obliged to give up, and he was confined to his room only forty-eight hours when death came, at 2 o'clock on Wednesday afternoon, March 13.
Mr. Erasmus Haston was born in Belchertown, April 18th, 1812. His mother died when he was but 2 years old, and at 6 he was left an orphan by the death of his father. Thus left alone he was put out in a family by the name of Works, where he remained until he became of age, when he went to work in an auger factory in Ware, but as this work did not agree with him he only remained three years. After a brief stay in Greenwich he came to North Brookfield 56 years ago last April, and bought the fine farm now owned by Josiah C. Converse. He carried this on, and also took work from the factory, as did so many others. About 47 years ago he bought the farm on Elm Street in this village, and built the house in which he has lived ever since.
In 1847 he married Miss Abigail Whiting who died June 19, 1848. In 1849 he married Miss Elvira Shedd, who survives him. Two children were born to them, Martin and Arthur, both of whom died young.
The life of Mr. Haston is indeed an object lesson to the youth of our country. Left an orphan in his early youth, with no inheritance to give him a start in life, he had by integrity, thrift and industry, combined with the most prompt and systematic attention to all the details of business, and sound judgement, accumulated a handsome competency.
His magnificent gift to the town is fresh in our memory. Besides the $30,000 which Mr. and Mrs. Haston first gave to the town for the erection of the splendid Haston Library Building, they have since added as a free and unconditional gift, $4000 more for completion and furnishing. The splendid building is an enduring monument to his memory.
The funeral will be attended from his late home on Elm Street, Saturday at 2 pm, and all that wish are invited to attend. The Library Trustees, Selectmen, School Committee and other town officials will attend in a body. The services will be conducted by Rev. Mr. Dyer, assisted by Rev. Mr. Sherman.
North Brookfield Journal
Friday, March 15, 1895
Obituary of Mrs. Elvira Haston
After a long and peaceful life Mrs. Elvira Shedd Haston passed into rest at 4 o'clock on Monday morning, Dec. 10. She died at the home on Elm Street, where the greater part of the four score years and ten have been passed. Mrs. Haston was born at Springfield, Vt. April 9, 1816, and married Erasmus Haston, April 12, 1849. Mr. Haston died March 13, 1895. Two children born to Mr. and Mrs. Haston, died in infancy.
Mrs. Haston became a member of the First Congregational church more than fifty years ago, and has been a constant attendant upon its services, whenever able. A fall, last week Tuesday, resulting in a severe fracture of her hip bone, was the immediate cause of her death. She lived a quiet, unostentatious life, yet, was ever ready to give to a worthy cause when presented to her. Some 12 years ago she joined with her husband in giving to the town $34,000 for the erection of the beautiful library building, which bears their name, and which will stand as a living memorial. The only condition imposed with the gift was that an annuity of $900 a year should be paid to Mrs. Haston by the town so long as she lived.
...
In her will, which will be opened this afternoon, Mrs. Haston leaves a few thousand dollars to be divided between Miss Addie Hoar, and other relatives. Mr. Freeman R. Doane is given the first right to the purchase of the homestead, and the Town of Franklin, Vt., is made the residuary legatee, to whom the balance of the property will go, for the erection of a library building. Franklin is a small town in Vermont, where some of Mrs. Haston's relatives live, and where she has been a frequent visitor in her later years. The will was made in 1896, shortly after the death of Mr. Haston.
North Brookfield Journal
Friday, December 14, 1906
History of the North Brookfield Haston Public Library
The North Brookfield Haston Public Library has a long and rich history that reflects the town’s growth, community spirit, and the dedication of its founders. From its humble beginnings in the late 19th century to the vibrant, modern facility that serves the town today, the library has been an invaluable resource for the community.
The Founders: Elvira and Erasmus Haston
The story of the North Brookfield Haston Public Library begins with Elvira and Erasmus Haston, two individuals whose vision and generosity shaped the town's cultural and educational landscape.
Unlike many philanthropists of their time, the Hastons came from the working class. Both worked for many years in North Brookfield's shoe factory, and after retiring, they found themselves without children but with a deep desire to leave a meaningful legacy for the town they loved. Elvira and Erasmus were driven by a shared belief in the power of education and the importance of providing access to knowledge for everyone in their community.
With their retirement, the Hastons turned their attention to the creation of a modern library for North Brookfield. They wished to build a space that would not only house books but also become a community hub—offering learning, connection, and enrichment for all residents. Their decision to fund the construction of the Haston Free Public Library reflected their commitment to the betterment of North Brookfield, and their legacy continues to live on in the library that bears their name.
The Founding of the Library: 1879 - 1894
While the Hastons are most famously associated with the library’s current building, the North Brookfield Free Public Library first opened its doors on November 26, 1879. Initially established as a Public Library and Reading Room, it was composed of two rooms on the second floor of the Walker Block. This early version of the library quickly became a beloved resource, open daily except on Sundays and holidays. It was immensely popular, proving that the residents of North Brookfield were eager for a space dedicated to learning, reading, and community interaction.
As the library grew in popularity, it became clear that its existing quarters were no longer adequate to meet the increasing demand for space and resources. The need for a larger, more modern facility became urgent.
In September of 1892, Erasmus and Elvira Haston stepped forward with a
remarkable offer to the town. They pledged to donate $30,000 for the
construction of a new library building, ensuring that it would include
“all the most modern conveniences and appliances.” The Hastons’
generosity also included covering any additional costs incurred to
meet these high standards. The total cost of the new library, including
the purchase of land, came to $46,000.
With this significant donation, the Hastons set in motion the creation of a
building that would serve as a lasting testament to their commitment to
education and community service.
The Opening of the Haston Free Public Library: 1894
The new Haston Free Public Library was completed and opened to the
public in September of 1894. The library, which still stands today, was
designed to be a space that reflected the Hastons’ vision of a modern,
welcoming environment for learning and public engagement. The building,
a striking example of its time, was equipped with the latest technologies
and conveniences, ensuring that it would serve the needs of North
Brookfield for generations to come.
Over time, the library became more than just a place to borrow books.
It evolved into a cultural hub, offering educational programs, lectures,
and community events. The Hastons' original vision was realized —
a library that would serve as both a sanctuary for learning and a center
for community life.
Renovation and Expansion: 2001 - 2007
As the needs of the community grew and the library’s role expanded, the North Brookfield Haston Public Library underwent a significant renovation and expansion in the early 21st century. In 2001, the Library Board of Trustees applied for and received a Public Library Construction Grant through the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners. This funding, combined with additional contributions from the town taxpayers and a capital campaign led by the Friends of the Haston Free Public Library, allowed for a comprehensive renovation project.
The renovation began in June of 2006 and was completed in September of 2007. The updated library now spans 13,000 square feet and is fully ADA-compliant, making it more accessible to all members of the community.
Key features of the renovation include:
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A greatly expanded Children’s Service Area, complete with a dedicated craft room and storytime area for pre-school children.
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A separate space for young adult materials, catering to the needs of teens and young adults.
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A local history room, preserving the town’s heritage and providing a space for research and education.
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A community meeting room, designed to host events, classes, and gatherings for residents of all ages.
This expansion ensured that the library remained a central resource for education, enrichment, and community engagement well into the future
The Library Today
Today, the North Brookfield Haston Public Library remains a vibrant center of learning, creativity, and connection for the entire community. It continues to offer a variety of programs, workshops, and services for all ages — from storytimes and book clubs to local history seminars and technology workshops. The library’s collection includes both physical books and digital resources, ensuring that residents can access a wide range of materials for personal and educational growth.
As the library looks forward to the future, it remains true to the values established by Elvira and Erasmus Haston: a commitment to providing free access to knowledge, fostering a love of reading, and serving as a gathering place for the North Brookfield community.
A Legacy for the Future
The North Brookfield Haston Public Library’s history is a testament to the enduring impact of Elvira and Erasmus Haston and their dedication to education and community service. Their vision continues to guide the library as it moves forward, and their legacy is felt every day in the programs, services, and resources that the library offers to the residents of North Brookfield.
The library’s rich history and the Hastons’ lasting influence ensure that the library will remain a vital part of the community for generations to come.
"May it ever be held as a sacred civic trust, may its generous support be not so much an annual duty as an annual joy to
every voter and may it forever have a warm place in the heart of every inhabitant of this exalted and thrice beautiful town."
- G. Stanley Hall, Clark University President
Keynote Speaker, Haston Library Dedication
September 22, 1894