Balch
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In 1922, the
Thomas Balch Library was dedicated by his sons, Edwin Swift Balch and Thomas
Willing Balch, who had donated $10,000 to build a public library in their
father's memory to be located in the town of his birth, Leesburg, Virginia.
In recognition of the lifelong love of history which Thomas Balch maintained,
the library was dedicated with a special requirement-that it maintain and
foster a section dedicated to local history.
Thomas Balch was born in Leesburg, the son of Judge Lewis P. Balch and Elizabeth
Weaver. At age 5, he moved with his family to Frederick, Maryland, and later
to Philadelphia. A noted attorney of his day, Mr. Balch was also a keen student
of history throughout his life, becoming a corresponding member of numerous
historical societies. He earned his own niche in history at the close of the
American Civil War when his plan for resolution of the famous "Alabama
Claims" resulted in a $15 million settlement for the United States against
Great Britain, and earned him the title of "Father of International Arbitration."
The Georgian Revival library building was designed by the noted Washington Architect, Waddy Wood. Wood is known for the design of the Woodrow Wilson House and Federal Triangle. In May 2001, a rededication ceremony was held to commemorate the new addition and renovation of the library. The Thomas Balch Advisory Commission and the Town of Leesburg chose Bowie Gridley Architects firm of Washington, DC.
A plaque at Thomas Balch Library to Bowie Gridley reads: "Washington Chapter, The American Institute of Architects Merit Award "Outstanding Achievement in Historic Resources," Thomas Balch Library, November 9, 2002. Bob Gridley Architects." The certificate hangs in the foyer at Balch.
Bob Gridley Architects' award-winning designs are characterized by contextually-based design solutions that focus and reflect the needs and goals of each institution. Recent clients include Georgetown University, Sidwell Friends School, Arlington Public Schools, St John's Church at Lafayette Square and the Metropolitan Club of Washington.
Read about the recent room dedications at Balch Library!
Contact
the Thomas Balch Library |
Library
Hours Mon/Thurs/Fri - 10am to 5pm Tuesday - 10am to 8pm Wednesday - 2pm to 8pm Saturday - 11am to 4pm Sunday - 1pm to 5pm |
To
visit the Thomas Balch Library website, please go to this link: http://www.leesburgva.gov/default.aspx |
