Elgin library celebrates 125th with 'appearance' by Gail Borden
Gail Borden Public Library in Elgin celebrated its 125th anniversary Friday with an "appearance" from the man himself.
Elgin Councilman John Steffen impersonated Borden and asked trivia questions to the crowd of about 25 people, who also enjoyed cake and refreshments.
"We don't have 125 candles to blow out. The fire department wouldn't let us," Library Executive Director Carole Medal said.
Borden was the patent holder of condensed milk and owner of the Elgin Milk Condensing Company that opened in 1865 and operated through 1919. The library was named after Borden's stepsons, in 1894, purchased a mansion on Spring Street for $12,000 and donated it to the library district with the stipulation it would always be known as Gail Borden Public Library.
Library spokeswoman Denise Raleigh said staff members are used to clarifying that Borden was a man, not a woman.
"We have this wonderfully unique library, and part of what we are known for is this wonderfully unique name of Gail Borden," she said. "We are named after a historical figure who really made a difference in the world, and hopefully we are continuing that legacy."
The library district has grown from serving about 19,000 residents in 1894 to the current 150,000 residents.
• Daily Herald staff photorapher John Starks contributed to this report.