Memorial marker may calm spirit of beloved librarian

By Leslie Moriarty

Herald Writer

SNOHOMISH — It won’t be long before the passing of Snohomish librarian Catharine McMurchy will be properly noted.

It’s about time, given she died in 1956.

McMurchy was the longtime librarian at the Snohomish Library who served from 1923-39. Since her death, several library employees and patrons believe that she has been back to visit them in a ghostly manner, haunting her old stomping grounds, including the second story and the loft workroom.

It was only recently discovered that when McMurchy died her grave was not marked. At that time her burial was paid for by King County welfare because she had no money.

When Barb Kyllo, an old family friend, brought that to the attention of Snohomish Librarian Mike Malone, he decided something had to be done.

He began a fund-raising effort that now has $190.

One of the first to give was Leland T. Lamb.

"He told me he was an orphan in 1929 and was adopted by a couple outside the Snohomish area," Malone said. "Catharine helped him learn to read. He told me that she even let him come into the adult section and read the newspapers.

"He remembers her many kindnesses and wanted to see that she is properly remembered."

Additionally, Paul Elvig of Everett heard of the drive and contacted Malone to offer a marker at cost.

Malone said the library hopes to have enough to get the grave marker, have it inscribed and put in place on the 46th anniversary of McMurchy’s death, Jan. 26, 2002.

Malone said he and others are hoping to find something appropriate.

"We want to acknowledge all she did for everyone," he said. "But we also want to show how much she was liked."

You can call Herald Writer Leslie Moriarty at 425-339-3436

or send e-mail to moriarty@heraldnet.com.

Contributions to the memorial fund can be sent to the library in care of Mike Malone, 105 Cedar St., Snohomish, 98290.

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