The Medal was named for arts patron Frank Granger Logan (1851–1937), founder of the brokerage house of Logan & Bryan, who served over 50 years on the board of the Chicago Art Institute.
He founded the Logan Museum of Anthropology at Beloit College where he was a trustee.
The Logans strongly opposed all forms of modern art, including cubism, surrealism, and abstract expressionism.
The Logan's were the in-laws of the renowned Chicago financier, Frank C. Rathje.
Logan prizes were also awarded by the Society for Sanity in Art at exhibitions in California.