Mary Pillsbury Weston facts for kids

Mary Bartlett Pillsbury Weston (born January 5, 1817 – died April 25, 1895) was an American artist from the 1800s. She painted beautiful landscapes and portraits of people. Her most famous painting is called “The Spirit of Kansas.” Even as a child, Mary dreamed of becoming an artist. She even tried to run away twice to follow her dream! Later, she met Valentine Weston. They moved to New York so he could help her learn more about art. They married in 1840 and lived there until Valentine passed away in 1863. Mary then moved to Lawrence, Kansas, in 1873.

Early Life and Family

Mary Bartlett Pillsbury Weston was born on January 5, 1817. Her hometown was Hebron, New Hampshire. Her parents were Steven Pillsbury and Lavinia Hobart. Steven was a Baptist Minister. Mary was one of ten children in her family. She also had a half-sister.

Following Her Artistic Dream

From a very young age, Mary Pillsbury Weston loved art. She was so passionate about it that she ran away from home two times! She wanted to start a career as an artist. In 1837, she moved to Willington, Connecticut. There, she began painting portraits for families in the area.

While living in Willington, she met a man named Valentine Weston. He was from New York. Valentine invited Mary to come back to New York with him. He wanted to help her learn more about art. Valentine hired artists to teach Mary. They helped her become a skilled painter. Three months later, Mary and Valentine got married. This was in 1840. They lived in New York until Valentine passed away in 1863. After her husband's death, Mary traveled around the East Coast. She finally settled down in Lawrence, Kansas, in 1873.

The Spirit of Kansas Painting

Mary Pillsbury Weston was well-known for her portraits and landscape paintings. She created many artworks. But her most famous one is “The Spirit of Kansas.” She painted “The Spirit of Kansas” for a special event. It was shown at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Mary wanted this painting to show her hope. She wished for “the state of Kansas to move forward peacefully.” Today, “The Spirit of Kansas” can be seen at the Kansas Museum of History.

See also

• Landscape Painting