James Wilson Alexander MacDonald

James Wilson Alexander MacDonald
Born	August 25, 1824 Steubenville, Ohio, U.S.
Died	August 14, 1908 Yonkers, New York, U.S.
Occupation	Sculptor

Bust of Washington Irving by MacDonald.

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

Life

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

1. "James Wilson Alexander MacDonald". Smithsonian American Art Museum. Retrieved February 15, 2020.
2. "Obituary". The Sun. August 16, 1908. p. 5. Retrieved February 15, 2020 – via Newspapers.com.
3. "Sculptor MacDonald Dead". St. Louis Post-Dispatch. August 20, 1908. p. 1. Retrieved February 15, 2020 – via Newspapers.com.
4. "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.