Edmonia Lewis: sculptor and equality advocate

“There is nothing so beautiful as the free forest. To catch a fish when you are hungry, cut the boughs of a tree, make a fire to roast it, and eat it in the open air, is the greatest of all luxuries. I would not stay a week pent up in cities, if it were not for my passion for art.” — Edmonia Lewis

Most people didn’t know her age; she kept those details a mystery. But no one questioned her remarkable talent. For as a sculptor, Edmonia Lewis was one of the best. People traveled from all over the world to see her art and watch her at work.

Edmonia was born in New York sometime around 1844. Like her age, details of her upbringing and parents are sparse. Edmonia’s mother was of mixed African and Native American descent and was known for her weaving and craftsmanship. Her father was of African American descent and was known for being a writer.

Both of her parents passed away by the time Edmonia was nine years old. Afterward, aunts raised Edmonia and her older half-brother. But while family life came with much tragedy, Edmonia experienced some financial fortune through her half-brother. He ventured to California during the Gold Rush, where he struck gold and became wealthy.

Her half-brother used part of his wealth to fund Edmonia’s education. He paid for her to attend Oberlin Academy Preparatory…