This Neo-Classical Revival building was built in 1903 as Butler University's library. It is the
last remaining building of Butler’s old Irvington campus. The building was a gift to the
university from Edward and Mary Thompson in memory of their daughter who died shortly
after her 1897 graduation from Butler. In addition to serving as Butler's library, 1903-1928,
the library served as an Indianapolis Public Library branch from 1903-14. The building was
renovated in 1999 by the Irvington Historical Society, serves today as its headquarters,
museum and a community arts and cultural center.