Derby Public Library to remember Harcourt Wood's birthday

    DERBY - The staff of Derby Public Library will commemorate the birthday of Holton Harcourt

Wood, the young boy in whose memory the Library was built, from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. June 19.

     The Library will be decorated with flowers in compliance with Col. H. Holton Wood’s request, which he made at the dedication of the Library in 1902. 
     At that time he asked that flowers be placed throughout the Library every year on the birth date of his son. His request has been honored ever since.
     Several years ago, the Library also added the tradition of commemorating this special day with a birthday cake. 

     This time honored tradition has become well know over the years, not only throughout the Valley, but well beyond.  It has been written about in the New York Times.

       A memorial plaque in Harcourt’s memory is displayed at the front entrance of the

Library.  The public is invited to visit throughout the day for cake and to learn more about the history of the Library. 
          For  information, stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St. or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.

This is a press release from Cathy Williams, Director, Derby Public Library.