In today's world, Francis Hopkinson Smith is still a topic of great relevance and debate. From its origins to its impact on contemporary society, Francis Hopkinson Smith has generated constant interest and raised mixed opinions. Throughout history, Francis Hopkinson Smith has been the object of study, reflection and controversy, influencing different aspects of daily life, culture and politics. Whether due to its relevance in the academic field, its impact on society or its importance in popular culture, Francis Hopkinson Smith continues to be a topic of interest for people of all ages and backgrounds. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of Francis Hopkinson Smith and explore its many facets, from its origin to its influence today.
Francis Hopkinson Smith | |
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Born | Baltimore, Maryland | October 23, 1838
Died | April 7, 1915 New York, New York | (aged 76)
Occupation(s) | Writer, artist, engineer |
Spouse |
Josephine Van Deventer
(m. 1866) |
Signature | |
Francis Hopkinson Smith (October 23, 1838 – April 7, 1915) was an American author, artist and engineer. He built the foundation for the Statue of Liberty, wrote many stories and received awards for his paintings.
F. Hopkinson Smith was the great uncle of American architect, author and photographer G. E. Kidder Smith (1913-1997).
Smith was born in Baltimore, Maryland on October 23, 1838, a descendant of Francis Hopkinson, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. He graduated from the Boys' Latin School of Maryland.
Smith became a contractor in New York City and did much work for the federal government, including the stone ice-breaker at Bridgeport, Connecticut, the jetties at the mouth of the Connecticut River, the foundation for the Bartholdi Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor, the Race Rock Lighthouse (southwest of Fishers Island, New York) and many life-saving stations. His vacations were spent sketching in the White Mountains, in Cuba and in Mexico. He also visited and sketched in Venice, Constantinople and the Netherlands.
He married Josephine Van Deventer on April 26, 1866.
His first popular book was Col. Carter of Cartersville (1891). His 1896 novel Tom Grogan and 1898 novel Caleb West were each the best selling book in the United States in the year of their release.
On March 1, 1915, Smith wrote the Carmel Arts and Crafts Club in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California about his collection of fifteen original paintings being sent for a exhibition at the Club on June 8 to June 26, 1915. It was his first venture out West.
He died at his home in New York City on April 7, 1915.
He illustrated and published numerous travelogues, including:
His novels and short stories are especially felicitous in their portrayal of the Old South. Among them are:
Attribution: