Historic Detroit

Every building in Detroit has a story — we're here to share it

Daniel Chester French (April 20, 1850 - Oct. 7, 1931)

The New Englander was one of America's most famous sculptors - and his most famous work is one of America's most celebrated landmarks.

Daniel Chester French was born in Exeter, N.H., on April 20, 1850. He would team up with architect Henry Bacon to create public art. In 1920, the pair created the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. The following year, the duo would team up again for the Russell A. Alger Memorial Fountain in Detroit.

French died Oct. 7, 1931, in Stockbridge, Mass., where his studio was.