Morton Memorial Library (Rhinecliff, New York)


The Morton Memorial Library is an historic structure along Kelly Street in the hamlet of Rhinecliff, New York, just east of the Hudson River.

History

Anna L. and Levi P. Morton of the nearby Ellerslie estate, erected the Morton Memorial Library in Rhinecliff in memory of their daughter Lena. It was dedicated as a library in 1908.

Description

The building, constructed in 1905, occupies most of its small village lot less than in size. It is situated on a slight knoll facing west. The library is a one-story brick civic building designed in the Colonial Revival style. Throughout its interior, restrained oak wordwork is preserved in a variety of features including wainscoting, trim around windows and doors, and mantelpieces. It is considered an historically significant example of public architecture in Rhinecliff. In the early nineteenth century, it served as a center for education and culture within the area. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on July 9, 1987.