BALDWIN, FRANK W.
(1879–1964)
was identified by many residents of Pittsburg, New Hampshire, as the creator of
The Crucifixion,
a large oil painting executed in the rich colors of stained glass,completed in the last year of his life. The unsigned painting was purchased by David Wiggins of Sanbornton, whose interest eventually solved the mystery surroundingits creation. An article about the painting in the
New Hampshire Sunday News
(October 10, 1976) triggered a number of letters that conclusively identified the painter as Baldwin.Wiggins met with several people who knew Baldwin, and learned that for most of his life Baldwin ran a general store in the center of town. He also had interests inreal estate and lumbering. A longtime resident of Pittsburg, Baldwin was also involved in town affairs, serving as town clerk, and ran unsuccessfully for the House of Representatives. He invested in a dance hall/restaurant called the Blue Bird in Lemington, Vermont. When that business failed, Baldwin paid his debts and turned toreligion.Baldwin became dedicated to painting in his final years. Mrs. Arthur Johnson, who worked for Baldwin, recalled a second unframed painting that Baldwin painted, but its whereabouts are unknown.
See also
Painting, American Folk; Religious Folk Art
.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Dewhurst, Kurt C., et al.
Religious Folk Art in America.
New York, 1983
