Auburn native, Jane K. Niles, donated $50,000 to the Eckhart Public Library in memory of her parents, Frederick L. Niles and Wanda Marshall Niles. The money was used to build the terrace that now exists on the west side of the library. A plaque, bearing the Niles’ names, is set in the library wall adjacent to the terrace near the main entrance to the library. The terrace is often used for public performances. It also is an excellent raised viewpoint of the library’s park.

Frederick Niles was born in LaGrange, Indiana and lived there as a child. He served in the Spanish-American War. Wanda Marshall Niles was born in Rome City. The couple moved to Auburn after they were married. Frederick worked at the Auburn Rubber Company. Frederick was active an active Mason and Wanda was active in the Eastern Star. Frederick and Wanda Niles were avid patrons of the library and were good friends of former librarian Alice Weeks and her husband.

Frederick Niles died December 9, 1951 and Wanda Niles died August 26, 1977.

--Courtesy Evening Star, 9/8/1994