James Wilson Alexander MacDonald

James Wilson Alexander MacDonald
BornAugust 25, 1824
DiedAugust 14, 1908
OccupationSculptor
Bust of Washington Irving by MacDonald.

James Wilson Alexander MacDonald (August 25, 1824 - August 14, 1908) was an American sculptor.

Life[edit]

MacDonald was born on August 25, 1824, in Steubenville, Ohio.[1][2] He began his career in publishing as a clerk in St. Louis, Missouri in 1841, but quit shortly after to dedicate himself to sculpture.[2]

MacDonald designed many busts, some of which were installed in courthouses and public parks.[2][3] Among his subjects were Senator Thomas Hart Benton, Congressman Charles O'Connor, and Ambassador Washington Irving.[2][4] MacDonald became known as "America's oldest sculptor."[4]

MacDonald died of paralysis on August 14, 1908, in Yonkers, New York, at age 84.[1][2][3][5]

References[edit]

  1. ^ a b "James Wilson Alexander MacDonald". Smithsonian American Art Museum. Retrieved February 15, 2020.
  2. ^ a b c d e "Obituary". The Sun. August 16, 1908. p. 5. Retrieved February 15, 2020 – via Newspapers.com.
  3. ^ a b "Sculptor MacDonald Dead". St. Louis Post-Dispatch. August 20, 1908. p. 1. Retrieved February 15, 2020 – via Newspapers.com.
  4. ^ a b "James W. A. MacDonald". The Gazette. Montreal, Canada. August 19, 1908. p. 5. Retrieved February 15, 2020 – via Newspapers.com.
  5. ^ "Oldest Sculptor Dies". Great Falls Tribune. Great Falls, Montana. p. 4. Retrieved February 15, 2020 – via Newspapers.com.