William Couper in Cortland: An Unexpected Chapter in an American Sculptor's Life

This illustrated talk explores the surprising connection between the American sculptor William Couper (1853-1942) and the city of Cortland, New York. Late in life Couper moved to Cortland to live with his son, the painter William Alan Couper, who had established a home at 94 Tompkins Street. During his final years there Couper had largely left sculpture behind and devoted himself to painting. The presentation traces Couper's artistic career, his connection to Thomas Ball, and the rediscovery of his Cortland residency through local historical research. Sculptures from the speaker's collection and a painting by William Alan Couper donated to the Cortland County Historical Society will be featured.