Alumnus’ Bequest Preserves Special Collections

A unique and remarkable collection of books and other historic documents resides on the third floor of the Pelletier Library. The area includes the Philip Mohr Benjamin Reading Room, a replica of the College’s original Treasure Room. It is part of the library’s Special Collections suite, which houses, among other treasures, the bequests from the Reverend William Bentley and the Honorable James Winthrop and the “bartering gift” of Isaiah Thomas. These scholars’ donations helped shape Allegheny as a premier liberal arts college. The historic volumes date from as early as 1530 through the 1800s. More recently, a generous bequest from the late William Feisley ’48 will ensure that the Special Collections and the Philip Mohr Benjamin Reading Room will be maintained properly well into the College’s third century.

—Reprinted from The Allegheny Planner, April 2012.