Who is Fairbanks?

Fairbanks Hall and Park are beautiful, prominent fixtures in Terre Haute. These indicators are evidence that the Fairbanks Family were integral members of Terre Haute society.

Crawford Fairbanks, born in 1843, was a wealthy businessman. He embodied the quintessential American dream. Born into a very poor family, he worked his way to the top. Beginning his career in the mercantile business, success catapulted him into an immense stratosphere of wealth. He became President of the following companies by the end of his career: the Standard Wheel Company, Diamond Paper Company, Terre Haute Brewing Company, and the American Strawboard Works. He is described as a man “of high standing and the highest character.” Such character was evident in the founding of Fairbanks Library and Park.

Crawford Fairbanks solely funded the construction of Fairbanks Library. The building opened in August 1906, as the Emaline Fairbanks Memorial Library, named for its Crawford's mother. Although he funded the structure, the building was donated to the city for public use.

Crawford Fairbanks also donated a large portion of Fairbanks Park to the city in 1916. In memory of his father, made sure his legacy would be remembered forever. Since riverfront property has always been expensive and valuable, this donation to the city was a significant gift.

Crawford Fairbanks is one of Terre Haute’s heroes. Not only did he donate waterfront property to create a park, but he built an impressive library for the city. Honoring his parents, he donated each major project to them. This type of individual is what helped Terre Haute to be a jewel in the 1920’s.