In Memory of Elizabeth Lincoln

This past year the Backroads Studio Tour lost a long-time friend and fellow-artist: Mrs. Elizabeth Bradford Howe Lincoln passed away on Monday, February 28, at home after a brief illness. Mrs. Lincoln, a direct descendent of Plymouth Colony leader William Bradford in the 10th generation, was born in Ware on January 10, 1918, daughter of Donald and Josephine (Bradford) Howe of Ware. She was a graduate of Ware High School, Class of 1935, of Cushing Academy, and Acadia University of Nova Scotia. She also took courses at the former art school, Vesper George, in Boston.

She developed an interest in art at a very early age and her varied accomplishments as an artist spanned eight decades. Honored by the Famous Artists School of Westport, Connecticut, her paintings, sculptures, lithographs, tiles and illustrations won her much recognition. Betty often donated pieces to charities, and local institutions. A tireless creator, her motto was, "Work regardless of your mood." She illustrated her father's noted text: Quabbin, the Lost Valley in 1951, as well as six books her husband wrote after his retirement. Never tiring of art, she published a retrospective of her own works, Here's Ware and Elsewhere as she approached her 90th year.

Betty was a Cub Scout Den Mother, a member of the Ware Social Science Club, the Ware and Quabbin Historical Societies, the Trinity Episcopal Church choir, and the Backroads Artists Tour. Mrs. Lincoln made countless friends through her love of art. She enjoyed sharing her gift for both the creation and appreciation of her field, and that love enriched the lives of others. Her works will live on in the eyes of following generations. Betty was predeceased in 2004 by her husband of 63 years, Roger Nye Lincoln with whom she collaborated on many projects. She is survived by four sons, two daughters, sixteen grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, and nine nieces and nephews.

Betty is, and will continue to be, greatly missed by the members of the Backroads Studio Tour.