Charles Willson Peale

1741–1827 (age 86)

Painter, Naturalist, Museum Founder

Photograph of Charles Willson Peale

Biography

Charles Willson Peale blended artistry with scientific curiosity, capturing the likenesses of Revolutionary statesmen while founding a museum that gathered natural wonders for the public to study.

His passion for educating others through portraits and collections inspired generations of American artists and naturalists, and his remains rest with honor in St. Peter's Churchyard.