Portrait of Frank Hamilton Cushing

Thomas Hovenden, born Dunmanway, Ireland 1840-died Plymouth Meeting, PA 1895 · 1890

Frank Hamilton Cushing was a noted anthropologist for the Bureau of American Ethnology. He spent several years in the Southwest among the Zuni Indians, studying their language and culture. The tribe adopted Cushing and made him a member of their secret society, called the Priesthood of the Bow. (“Initiated by Zuni Indians,” The Washington Post, February 15, 1893) Thomas Hovenden conveyed the man’s athleticism and energy with a casual pose that suggests Cushing might get up and stride out the door, in search of greater adventures.