CONTENT WARNING
Materials in the Library of Virginia’s collections contain historical terms, phrases, and images that are offensive to modern readers. These include demeaning and dehumanizing references to race, ethnicity, and nationality; enslaved or free status; physical and mental ability; and gender and sexual orientation.
Context
This portrait of Mary Willing Byrd (1740–1814) was painted early in the 1770s by artist Matthew Pratt. Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of a wealthy merchant and a god-daughter of Benjamin Franklin. In 1761 she married William Byrd (1728–1777) while he was serving in the French and Indian War (also known as the Seven Years' War). They settled at his Westover plantation on the James River in Charles City County, where his enslaved laborers raised tobacco and grains. William Byrd was heavily in debt before the American Revolution and he took his own life in January 1777.
The death of her husband left Mary Byrd debt-ridden and faced with the difficult task of satisfying creditors while preserving an inheritance for their ten children. Mary Byrd attempted to remain neutral during the American Revolution and thereby retain control of her property and wealth. Loyalist forces under Benedict Arnold raided Westover in 1781. After trying to negotiate with the British for the return of her property, including 49 enslaved laborers, Mary Byrd was accused by the Americans of trading with the enemy. Mary Byrd eloquently defended herself and a trial was never held. When she wrote her will in 1813, she was still in possession of Westover and was able to provide for all of her children and grandchildren.
Today two portraits of Mary Willing Byrd survive, one located at the Library of Virginia and the other located at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, in Richmond.
Citation: Mary Willing Byrd, oil painting. Pratt, Matthew, Mary Willing Byrd (Mrs. William Byrd III) Oil painting on canvas, Original. Virginia State Artwork Collection: acquired 1920, Library of Virginia.
Standards
Art: 4.1, 5.1
Suggested Questions
Preview Activity
Take a Look: The portrait of Mary Byrd provides many clues to her status and wealth. Write a few sentences about what you believe to be her social status. Use examples from the portrait as part of your explanation.
Post Activity
Artistic Exploration: Produce a portrait of Mary Willing Byrd that you think represents her story. You may create the portrait using any artistic means you wish. Feel free to use symbols in your portrait to represent her status and struggle.
Another Perspective: If you were Mary Byrd, how might you try to preserve your property? Would you choose a side in the war? Would you stay neutral? What would influence your decision.