Woman donates 1,500 Civil War books to museum

FREMONT — A Norwalk woman recently donated 1,500 books related to the Civil War to Hayes Presidential Library & Museums in Fremont — a major gift that expands the library's collection on a topic directly related to President Rutherford B. Hayes. The books belonged to William J. Pierce, a Civil War book collector who amassed them over many years. His widow, Marilyn Pierce, donated the library of volumes, ranging from titles focused on different battles to Civil War photography. The books range from antique to newer titles and are in excellent condition. They arrived earlier this year in about 90 boxes and are in secure storage in Hayes Presidential's archives while being processed and added to collection records. "These Civil War books are a very generous donation," said John Ransom, Hayes Presidential head librarian. "This is one of the largest book collections we have ever received. All the books are in very good condition and will greatly expand our title diversity." People can visit the museum, call 419-332-2081 or visit rbhayes.org for more information