Edward Waldo Emerson (1844-1930) was the fourth child and only surviving son of Ralph Waldo Emerson and his wife Lidian. After a first career as Concord’s town doctor, he became an accomplished painter and professor of anatomical illustration. For generations, most of Edward’s paintings have been treasured by private collectors.

In collaboration with the Concord Free Public Library, the Ralph Waldo Emerson Memorial Association (RWEMA) is pleased to invite you to view a rare selection of these works in a first-of-its kind special exhibition at the library from July 30-September 10, 2026.

“Celebrating the Art of Edward Waldo Emerson” will also include several of his paintings, sketchbooks, and a palette from the library’s William Munroe Special Collections, the repository of Edward’s papers. This project is supported by the Concord Cultural Council and the Concord Center Cultural District, with funding from the Massachusetts Cultural Council.

The exhibition will be on view in the hallway of the Main Library and is free and open to the public during the library’s regular hours. Additional information about Edward’s life can be found on our website in The Lyceum.