Marion Parker | |
---|---|
Born | Marion Parker 1873 New Hampshire[1] |
Died | 1935 (aged 62) California |
Alma mater | University of Michigan |
Occupation | Architect |
Marion Parker (1873–1935)[note 1] was the first female graduate in the College of Engineering and Architecture of the University of Michigan, worked with Purcell & Elmslie Architects, and established her own practice.
Marion Parker was the first female graduate in the College of Engineering and Architecture of the University of Michigan in 1895; the university awards two female students annually to honor her (at least in the mid-1970s).[2] After graduating she worked on skyscrapers in New York City.[2]
Parker worked for William Gray Purcell and George Fieck in their Minneapolis office becoming their first drafter in 1908[3] and by 1912 became an important member in the small firm.[1] She produced working drawings for leaded glass panels and other craft items.[4]
Established in 1909,[5] Purcell & Elmslie has been described as one of the most prolific of the Prairie School.[1] After adding George Grant Elmslie as partner in 1909, the firm dissolved in 1921.[1]
However, Parker left in 1919 to start her own office.[1]
In addition to architecture, Parker was a craftswoman. A member of the Minneapolis Arts and Crafts Society, she was also worked in textiles, especially rugs in the early 1900s; was a charter member of the chalk and chisel club; and garnered an exhibit prize in 1914.[4]
In retirement she moved to Luguna Beach and opened an arts and crafts shop,[1] named "The Home-Spun Shop".[3] Located in an arts colony she participated in Summer art fairs.[4] While travelling to visit Purcell, she died of a heart attack.[4]
Parker's collection is at the Northwest Architectural Archives, University of Minnesota Libraries, as are Purcell's papers.[3][1]