Archives and Library Collections

The library of The Carpenters’ Company found its current iteration in 1868, when the collections were moved to the second floor of Carpenters’ Hall from their earlier location at New Hall. New Hall, whose construction had been completed in 1791, became home to a library and architectural school in the early 19th century. When The Company moved its operations back to “Old Hall” in the mid 19th century, the library at New Hall was in turn relocated. During this time, the library was administered by Sarah and Martha Stewart— the wife and daughter of Carpenters’ Company member James Stewart. To read more about the origins of the library, click here. The Stewarts were congregants at Gloria Dei, and a short history of their lives can be found here.

Today, The Company’s library persists as a research library with over 5,000 volumes in its collection. Our archives comprise 120 linear feet of records. Carpenters’ Hall Library and Archives is overseen by The Company’s Library, Archives and Museum Committee with the guidance of our consulting archivist, Carol Smith.

Click the link above to view our digital archives. Alongside images and online exhibits, you’ll also find catalog entries for our library collection and archives.

Because of our small staff our capacity to host researchers is limited. However, if you’d like to book an appointment to do research in our library, please contact: alexpalma@carpentershall.org.

Please note that some of our most fragile archival materials are under the stewardship of the American Philosophical Society. To view those materials, click here.