Eclectic Eckel

Edmond J. Eckel was St. Joseph's finest architect throughout its Golden age. For over 64 years he designed many Iconic buildings in the city. From the Corby building on Felix Street to the Wyeth Tootle Mansion. It is not hard to turn a corner in St. Joseph and come face to face with a piece of his work.

Starting in 1869 Eckel worked with Stigers & Beottner as a draftsman. Later on he would partner up with Beottner in 1875 Eckel would move on to start a new firm with George Mann in 1880.

Eckel & Mann gained national recognition when their design was selected for the St. Louis City Hall. It took 14 years to complete due to insufficient funding. but was completed in 1904.

From 1888 to 1893 the firm of Eckel and Mann employed a man of great talent who gave the city of St. Joseph the German American Bank, the Moss House (now Barbosas Castle), and the McAlister Residence. The man was Harvey Ellis.

In 1934 at the age of 89 Edmond Jacques Eckel passed away leaving his son George Eckel to take is place at the drafting table.