Augustus Kollner in Western Virginia

The scenic beauty of western Virginia lured many artists to the area to paint and sketch during the 19th century. Several spots were especially attractive, including Hawk’s Nest along the New River and Harper’s Ferry in the northern portion of the region.

One artist who visited the state to paint and sketch was Augustus Kollner, a German immigrant who had settled in Philadelphia in the 1840s. He traveled widely in the eastern United States to create scenic views of America for publication in Europe. Among his travels was a trip through what is now West Virginia in 1845, resulting in many drawings and watercolors that feature the area’s natural attractions.

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website.