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Eckhart
Literary Society
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Origins
The Eckhart Literary Soceity is dedicated to the preservation of the literary legacy of M G Eckhart, including works composed by Eckhart himself, and works written about him.
In the early years, the Society housed its accumulated papers in several locations. While each of these sites were adequate for archival purposes, the dispersion of our holdings made research difficult.
These problems were resolved with the generous donation of the present Eckhart-by-the-Waters Memorial Building. The donor remains anonymous, but the gratitude of the society remains unbounded.
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The park-like setting of the society is a delight to serious scholar and casual visitor alike. When the weather allows, talks and readings are presented outside in one of three themed meditation gardens.
Inside, facilities are airy and spacioius, allowing the serious Eckhart scholar the opportunity to delve into Eckhart’s many remarkable aspects in comfort. The expert staff of librarians and curators stand ready to assist.
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Projects
Several unique projects have been undertaken by the Eckhart Literary Society. Once each month, our staff present a special seminar tailored for a youthful audience. Exposing the young to the Eckhart Literary phenomenon is of course intended to plant the seeds of a future generation of Eckhart scholars, but it is hoped as well that awareness of Eckhart will be diffused more widely throughout the reading public. We are proud of our Youth Outreach Program.
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Nearing completion is the reconstruction of a scale replica of the office where Eckhart performed the work for which he is best known. Working strictly from contemporary photographs, replicas of all furnishings were crafted. No detail was too trivial to be overlooked. For example, textile specialists were consulted to yield a perfect match for the fibre composition used in Eckhart’s striking Chinese red chair. The original is long since lost, but the upholsterer retained sample swatches and graciously allowed the society to analyse those pieces.
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When completed, the replica office will allow visitors an insight into the real Eckhart.
On 6 June every year, the society celebrates M G Eckhart’s birthday. Either in the Reading Room, or weather permitting, in the gardens, Eckhart’s favorite chocolate cake with orange peel frosting is served with punch. Our typically staid staff don party hats which are provided to guests as well.
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Preserving the Legacy
Would you like to join the Eckhart Literary Society and support its important work? Would you like to make a bequest to the Eckhart Literary Society and preserve Eckhart’s legacy for future generations?
Contact F McKenzie, Head Curator, fm@eckhartliterarysociety.org
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