MainStreet BookEnds and The Gallery of Warner is a family owned, independent bookstore and Art Gallery. We pride ourselves on a strong commitment to community, children, teachers, local artists and artisans, local authors and children's book illustrators and all who enjoy the wonder and excitement of reading. But most of all it is a place to meet with friends, talk about local activities, and perhaps enjoy a free cup of coffee and a muffin (before they disappear).
The two hundred year old colonial (and attached barn) was purchased in August 1998 and opened as a bookstore during Warner Fall Foliage Festival Weekend in October of the same year. While the bookstore remained open, renovations continued in the attached barn. In December of 1998, renovations were completed and the barn was introduced to the community as The Gallery, featuring the original works of some of the finest local artists any community would be proud to call their own. The Gallery is also home to Yoga Classes, Language Classes, book clubs, community meetings, "Friday Night on MainStreet Concerts and Lectures" art classes, author appearances, slide shows, weaving demonstrations, even Barn Dances. We are averaging about 300 events a year!
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Building HistoryThis wonderful colonial farmhouse was built in about 1795 on Warner's Main Street, right in the heart of downtown now known as Warner Village. It is known locally as the the Ira Harvey Homestead and over the years was used in a variety of ways including the town Blacksmith Shop, Gift Shop, Bank and personal residence for a number of families. Many longtime residents remember the front room being used for piano lessons. In the 1840's, it was home to George Pillsbury and his family. George owned a dry goods store and his son, Charles (born in the building), was his clerk. In the 1850's, George and Charles ventured to the Midwest to seek their fortunes. They opened a flour mill and the Pillsbury Flour Company was born. In the 1890's, George returned to Warner, a successful and wealthy businessman. He wanted to return something to the community which gave him his start. George Pillsbury donated the land and construction costs for a series of public buildings in the region including several town halls and libraries. One of those libraries is Warner's Pillsbury Free Library located right next door to his former home. We believe George Pillsbury would be proud to know that his library is thriving and expanding, and that his former home is now a bookstore, an art gallery and a community meeting place. |
Copyright © 2006-2007 Mainstreet Bookends of Warner
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