Portrait of Major Isaac Elston I, c. 1840, oil on canvas
An unknown artist painted this portrait of Major Isaac Elston, a well-known citizen of Crawfordsville. The date of the academic portrait is difficult to determine with certainty. Based on his appearance, this portrait most likely represents Isaac around the 1840’s, when the Major was in his mid-40’s. This was a time after the Major’s military career and during his rise as a regional businessman.
The artist was able to capture his mildly stern disposition as a sophisticated man, while retaining a gaze of generosity. As a young man, Elston moved to Indiana and ran three flat boats on southern Indiana rivers, where he transported goods. He eventually came to Crawfordsville during the 1820s and started a store.
Elston is illustrated wearing a military-based dark blue wool dress coat, possibly a frock coat, accompanied by a plush high collar cravat. The combination of these items epitomize his well-known character: an esteemed military leader and elegant, yet savvy entrepreneur.
Click the links below for more information about this painting and artist:
- The influence of Major Elston on business and banking in Crawfordsville
- Elston’s military background
- Major Elston’s generosity
- Video of a 19th century Crawfordsville resident describing Major Elston I
Brett Thumm