May Alcott: Sister, Painter, Teacher

Who was the younger sister of Little Women novelist Louisa Alcott? Abigail May Alcott Nieriker (1840-1879) exhibited her paintings in Paris and London, and published tourist guides aimed specifically at young women. Trained at the School of the Museum of the Fine Arts in Boston and Academie Julian, she used her skills for public good. She taught at insane asylums and kindergartens. She taught famed sculptor David Chester French. She was the inspiration for Amy March in Louisa's Little Women and illustrated some of its editions. She also inspired John Ruskin with her flowery artwork. Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888) was very different from her sister but supported her. When Abigail May died in 1879, she chose her author sister as guardian of her little girl, Louisa May (Nieriker) Rasim.

Sources:

Jimena Escoto, https://www.dailyartmagazine.com/may-alcott-lucky-star/

Chesterwood, https://www.chesterwood.org/daniel-chester-french/

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