The Cornish Art Colony and Two Budding Artists

Marguerite and William Zorach

During the early 1900s, Clara Potter Davidge encouraged and supported the development of many young New York City artists, and in some cases invited them to Plainfield to partake of the area’s active artistic environment, known today as the Cornish Art Colony.

Two of these young artists, both destined for recognition and fame as leaders in 20th century modern art, were Marguerite and William Zorach. Marguerite and Bill spent the summers of 1917 and 1918 in Plainfield. These were periods of high productivity for the artists. They, and their two children, enjoyed themselves immensely, living the summer of 1917 at Echo Farm on Old County Road and 1918 at the Fuller House on 12A in downtown Plainfield.

Roger Ballou, local art interpreter and guide from Concord, has researched the Zorachs extensively, including their summers in Plainfield. Roger will use narrative and photos to present biographical information, examples of their artworks and interesting anecdotes about the Zorachs, particularly their time in Plainfield.

Do you have suggestions for Spring programs! Please send them to info@phsnh.org We are always looking for new ideas to engage people in Plainfield and New England history.