James Wilson Alexander MacDonald

MacDonald was born on August 25, 1824, in Steubenville, Ohio.^[1][2] He began his career in publishing as a clerk in St. Louis, Missouri in 1841, but quit shortly after to dedicate himself to sculpture.^[2]

MacDonald designed many busts, some of which were installed in courthouses and public parks.^[2][3] Among his subjects were Senator Thomas Hart Benton, Congressman Charles O'Connor, and Ambassador Washington Irving.^[2][4] MacDonald became known as "America's oldest sculptor."^[4]

MacDonald died of paralysis on August 14, 1908, in Yonkers, New York, at age 84.^[1][2][3][5]