Original Library Building Nicholas P. Sims Library and Lyceum was constructed in 1903-1904, after Mr. Nicholas P. Sims, a local farmer and investor, left the bulk of his estate for the establishment of a library for the people of Waxahachie and Ellis County. The library was built on land given to the city by its first mayor, Captain W. H. Getzendaner. This site was originally known as Getzendaner Park. The library opened April 26, 1905, and has been serving the public since that time. It was one of the first ten public libraries in Texas and certainly one of the first privately endowed libraries. The original cost of the library in 1905 was: Building……………………………….$24,980.95 Books………………………………… $5,540.53 Furniture……………………………... $3,734.28 Total cost………………………………$34,255.76
