Anne T. Kent (1892-1981)
Interview date: April 5, 1976
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Born on Long Island, New York in 1892, Anne Thompson became a children’s librarian before her marriage to Thomas Kent, the second son of U.S. Congressman, William Kent. With her husband, she moved to Kentfield in 1918 and quickly became active in civic affairs. She was instrumental in founding the Marin County Free Library System (the holder of library card number one) and, with Carla Ehat, developed the Oral History program for the California Room, now named in her honor.
A founding member of the Marin Art and Garden Center, Anne Kent was a moving force in the establishment of the Jose Moya del Pino Library and also of the Ross Valley Players. She was actively involved in numerous organizations including the Audubon Canyon Ranch; Marin Conservation League and the “Sunny Hills” grape festival.
In this interview Anne discusses how she came to Marin County from Long Island; her recollections of the Kent family; the creation of Muir Woods; Stinson Beach; and the annual Old Settlers Day celebration at the Tamalpais Centre. She also talks about the history of the Marin Municipal Water District and the creation of many of the county’s dams and reservoirs. Audio Clip from the Interview (two minutes) Full Transcript of the Interview (Click here for a printable version) |
COPYRIGHT 2003, Anne T. Kent California Room, Marin County Free Library
