Martyl Langsdorf Restored Artwork Installed

If you’ve lived in Schaumburg for a while and know a bit about the Village’s history, chances are you’ve heard of the Schweiker House, the blooming peony gardens, and Martyl Langsdorf—a notable Chicago-based artist. In 1956, Martyl and her husband, physicist Alexander Langsdorf, purchased the Schweiker House, a National Historic Landmark designed by Paul Schweikher, right here in Schaumburg.

Martyl created many works from her home studio, but she’s best known for designing the Doomsday Clock in 1947—an iconic symbol still used today by the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists to reflect the global risk of catastrophe.

We’re proud to say that Schaumburg Library is home to several of Martyl’s pieces, including a newly restored triptych of the Hoover Dam. This striking, monochromatic inkwash painting captures the immense scale and drama of the landmark, and was generously donated to the Library by the Langsdorf family. It was installed this April on the second floor and is now on view for all to enjoy.

Over the past few months, we’ve worked with The Conservation Center in Chicago to carefully preserve Martyl’s artwork. The process began with detailed documentation, followed by cleaning, mending edges, humidifying and flattening each piece. The artworks were then float-mounted using Japanese tissue and wheat starch paste on archival backings. Custom ash hardwood frames and UV-filtering, shatterproof acrylic glazing help protect and showcase each piece beautifully.

We’re thrilled to finally share these works with our community. Their installation adds a meaningful finishing touch to our recent renovations and honors the rich history of Schaumburg.

Special thanks to our Art Committee—made up of staff and current and former Trustees—who thoughtfully curated these additions to help brighten our spaces and celebrate the legacy of an important local artist. Stop by the second floor and take a look!