Alvah Dunning Sketch
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Arpad Gerster sketch of "Uncle" Alvah Dunning
Museum-quality print, archival paper, copied from original etching - one of two known to exist. Ca.1905 Arts & Crafts oak frame with period glass and gold leaf plaque.
Dr. Gerster was a leading surgeon in NYC. On Raquette Lake, where he summered in the 1890s, locals would paddle up with bones to set or needing med'sins for collywobbles or rheumatiz. They insisted on paying - perhaps a trout or jar of birch jelly. Gerster kept diaries which he filled with drawings, including this sketch of Alvah Dunning, a notorious and sought-after Raquette Lake guide. Dunning could be your best friend or worst enemy - WW Durant was at various times both. Story goes: Dunning lost his watch while guiding sports. Gerster, his friend, drew Dunning's profile and sold etchings as a "quiet" fundraiser. He then presented a new gold watch to Dunning, who summarily fainted on the spot.
25" x 29.5" framed. Frame measures 3.5".
Donated By Doug Stinson - Great Camp Sagamore Board Member