Eckhart Public Library (built in 1910) was designed by Chicago architects Miller and Patton in the Prairie Style of the Arts and Crafts movement. This style emphasizes straight lines, simplicity, and connection with nature. The stained glass windows reflect this in their construction of clean lines and geometric shapes that are often reminiscent of leaves, trees, and flowers. The windows were designed by Chicago artist Gustave Brand.

Brand was born in Germany in 1862 and immigrated to the United States in 1893. He primarily worked as a muralist and painter, and his art is in many public buildings throughout the United States.

We know from correspondence between Brand and Charles Eckhart that they had a tense relationship as Brand was not always timely with delivery of materials and Eckhart was a bit of a micromanager. Eckhart ultimately was pleased with the designs, and the stained glass windows are a hallmark of the Eckhart Public Library.

Eckhart Public Library