The David Sassoon Library is the name of a famous library and heritage structure in Mumbai, India. The idea for a library to be situated in the center of the city was the brainchild ofAlbert Sassoon, son of the famousBaghdadi Jewish philanthropist, David Sassoon.[1] The building was designed by architects J. Campbell and G. E. Gosling, for the Scott McClelland and Company, at a cost of Rs. 125,000. David Sassoon donated Rs. 60,000, while the rest was borne by the Government of Bombay Presidency.[2]
David Sassoon Library Building
The library is located on Rampart Row, looking across the Kala Ghoda. The building, completed in 1870, is built using yellow Malad stone, much like the abutting Elphinstone College, Army and Navy Buildings and Watson's Hotel. Above the entrance portico is a white stone bust of David Sassoon.
The building also houses the Lund and Blockley opticians.
History
The European employees working in the Government Mint and the Dockyard in Mumbai started the Mechanics' Institution in 1847 to provide technical education to adults and to hold lectures. They worked out of rented premises until they moved to their own building thanks to the generosity of Sir David Sassoon. The building was called the David Sassoon Library and Reading Room.[3]
No comments:
Post a Comment