Some background Information

Nelson Park and Memorial Library was a gift to the Town of Grafton under the will of Charles H. Nelson, in memory of his father, Jasper S. Nelson. Jasper Nelson was a pioneer in creating men's "Dress shoes", as he was a prestigious shoemaker. He was able to gain and maintain the respect of his employees and customers.
Charles Nelson was born in 1852. He was taught at the local school and also at Bryant & Stratton business college in Boston, MA.

In approximately 1878, Jasper Nelson built the east wing of the Library building. He lived with his family in the "Mansion House" until his death in 1884 at age 62.

About two years after his father's death, Charles Nelson started to build another wing on the Library. He bought the surrounding land from various owners to create the Nelson Park. Charles continued to operate his father's Shoe Business for about twenty years after his father died, and with great success. Charles married Annie Brown, a former employee, in 1897. In 1900, Charles' health began to deteriorate, and in December 30, 1905, he passed away. He was 54 years old. His remains were cremated- no grave can be found.

Charles Nelson wrote a will in 1898, supplemented by other wishes in 1902. It included numerous endowments to family, relatives, church, and educational institutions. He left a major portion of his property to his wife, for as long at she lived. After she died, it was instructed that the 18 acre grounds, mansion, and excess money be given to the Town of Grafton as a public park and library in memory of Charles' father, Jasper Nelson. Throughout the years, the Nelson Library suffered considerable damage from hurricanes, water leaks, and raging fires.

For more information, please see the different sections of this site or email us at: NelsonMemLibrary@gmail.com.