Frank Benson

From Salem Links and Lore
  • Frank Weston Benson was born in Salem in 1862 and died at age 89 on Nov.14, 1951. He lived in Salem most of his life, though he summered in Maine and Cape Cod. He attended the Museum School in Boston and painted under the tutelage of Otto Grunderson and Frank Crowninshield. Benson was both a founding member of the Copley Society and member of Boston Guild of Artists.
  • Benson's work was very popular in his lifetime and he was successful financially as well. Benson was known for his portraits, and his later work became more impressionistic. He often painted outside.
  • Benson's work can be seen at most of the major art museums, including the Metropolitan Museum in New York, the Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum of fine Arts in Boston.
  • Frank Benson lived on #14 Chestnut Street from 1925-1951 and had a studio he shared with another painter, Philip Little at #2 Chestnut Street.
  • Benson is buried at Harmony Grove Cemetery in Salem.


See Also

  • Vertical File in Salem Collection - Benson, Frank
  • "Frank W. Benson, outstanding artist, dies in his 90th year" Salem Evening News, Nov. 15, 1951. p.3
  • "Frank Benson Seen Artist of Happier Time" Salem Evening News, Nov. 19, 1951. p.1
  • "Following the Light; Peabody Essex exhibit traces work of artist Frank W. Benson, Salem Evening News, Sept. 27, 2000. p.A1