Laura Wheeler Waring (1887-1948)
Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
A Black portraitist who lived here, Waring studied art in this city and in France. She headed the Art Department, Cheyney State College, and her works are part of the National Portrait Gallery and other major collections.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
Laura Wheeler Waring built her career as a portrait painter in an era when few Black women found a place in the American art world. Trained in Philadelphia and in France, she captured the faces of leading African Americans and led the art department at Cheyney State College, shaping generations of students. Her portraits now hang in the National Portrait Gallery and other major collections.
Why it matters
Waring helped record the dignity and achievement of Black America in enduring art, while opening the field of fine art to Black women as both creators and teachers.
Plan your visit
NearbyMake a day of it — museums, food, and places to stay near this marker.
Museums & culture
- African American Museum in Philadelphia3.2 mi away · 701 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Bridgette Mayer3.3 mi away · 709 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- National Constitution Center3.3 mi away · 525 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Independence Visitor Center3.3 mi away · 599 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Liberty Bell Center3.3 mi away · 526 Market Street, Philadelphia
- Congress Hall3.4 mi away · Philadelphia, PA
Attractions
- American Bandstand0.6 mi away
- Philadelphia Zoo0.8 mi away
- Pennsylvania Railroad, Connecting Railway Bridge1.0 mi away
- Discovery Center at East Park Reservoir1.4 mi away
- Rocky Steps1.6 mi away
- The Universal Sphere2.3 mi away
Food & drink
- Burger King3.2 mi away
- Philly Pretzel Factory3.2 mi away
- Munchie’s Cafe3.2 mi away · 728 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- El Azteca3.2 mi away
- Park’s Salad Bar3.2 mi away
- Lamberti Pizza & Market3.2 mi away · 707 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
Places to stay
- Residence Inn Philadelphia Center City2.7 mi away · 1 East Penn Square, Philadelphia, PA
- The Notary Hotel2.7 mi away · 21 North Juniper Street, Philadelphia
- Days Inn Philadelphia Convention Center - Philadelphia2.7 mi away · 1227 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Cambria Hotel Philadelphia Downtown - Center City2.7 mi away · 219 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Philadelphia Center City2.7 mi away · 237 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Holiday Inn Express2.8 mi away · 1305-11 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
Places data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Hours and details change — call ahead.
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Related people
- · Laura Wheeler Waring
Themes & tags
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