William Herman Schmedtgen (May 18, 1862 – December 29, 1936) was an American illustrator and painter recognized as a pioneer in Chicago newspaper illustration.
Early Life and Education
Schmedtgen was born in Chicago, Illinois, and studied at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.
Career
He began his professional career in 1883 with the Chicago Mail. He subsequently spent two years in St. Louis and New York working in commercial art. From 1886 to 1901, Schmedtgen served as chief of the art department at the Chicago Record, and later worked on the staff of the Chicago Record-Herald. During the Spanish–American War, he worked as a field artist for the Record, stationed with U.S. troops in Cuba. He also covered the trial of the men accused of inciting the Haymarket Square riots. Later in his career, he became a successful commercial artist and painter, best known for his wildlife subjects.
Death
Schmedtgen died at his home in Wilmette, Illinois, on December 29, 1936, at the age of 74.
Legacy
His works are held in collections including the Delaware Art Museum, and his artwork has appeared at auction, with realized prices reaching up to $2,500 USD for paintings. He is listed in the Benezit Dictionary of Artists.
