History

The Massachusetts Historical Commission says, "The Citizens' Library, one of the oldest [existing] buildings on Windsor Avenue, was most likely built, in the 1840s by Phineas Wetherbee, who by 1856, resided there and lived at this address until 1894. Mr. Wetherbee, a farmer who served as a town selectman from 1880 to 1883, was a benefactor of the Citizens' Library. In 1883, Phineas Wetherbee met with 39 others at the West Acton railroad depot (since demolished) to form a Citizens' Library."

The group initially opened the library room in the Grand Army Hall (later demolished) then moved to the Universalist Church on Central Street. Mr. Wetherbee died and bequeathed his house at 21 Windsor to the library. In 1900, after the estate was settled, the Citizens' Library moved to the Wetherbee house. The library remains in this location.


West Acton Citizens' Library

West Acton Citizens' Library, 21 Windsor Ave, Acton Massachusetts 01720

West Acton Citizens' Library
West Acton Citizens Library Plaque