George Spencer Library Dedicated

A new chapter in masonry history was written on April 6 with the opening of the George Spencer Masonry Library, housed in the Annapolis, Maryland, headquarters of the International Masonry Institute. The library, which includes a videoconferencing center, is an industry first.

The dedication of the George Spencer Masonry Library in Annapolis, MD on April 6 drew BAC leaders from across the Union and members of the Spencer family. From left, Local 1 Michigan Field Representative Joe Spencer, Local 1 Michigan President Ray Chapman, BAC President John J. Flynn, Kathy (Spencer) Lozon, and Jim Spencer.

“It is an impressive accomplishment that will really benefit the unionized masonry industry,” said BAC President John J. Flynn. “It is also an opportunity to recognize a respected leader who believed strongly in our Union.”

The library is named in honor of the late BAC Vice President George Spencer, who served the Union for more than a quarter century. Starting as a BAC apprentice in 1952, Spencer became a business agent for former Local 2 Michigan. In 1985, he was elected 6th Vice President of the International Union, an office he held until his death in December 1991.

Spencer’s children, Kathy, Joseph, and James, attended the dedication ceremony. “My father loved the Union, and he would have been so proud today,” reflected son and Local 1 Michigan Field Representative Joe Spencer, speaking on behalf of the family.

The library was made possible by generous contributions from BAC Locals and signatory contractors. President Flynn noted that BAC had donated over 700 books from its library for the new one.

The library is part of an ongoing restoration program at the historic James Brice House. Built between 1767 and 1773, it is a showcase for brick, plaster and stone craftsmanship. The house includes space for educational exhibits and administrative offices.

With its comprehensive collection of masonry resources and bibliography, plus videoconferencing facilities for seminars and industry events, IMI Co-Chair Eugene George, President of GA Masonry, called the new library “a valuable resource to everyone involved in the masonry industry, and further evidence of the key role that IMI and BAC play in it.”