Merrill Coffin’s Butler Home is a masterful tribute to family, history, and heritage, capturing the charm and nostalgia of the Butler family’s home in Ashville, New York. Created for his daughter, Tabetha Butler, this painting beautifully portrays the Smith Bly House, a distinguished Greek Revival home listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Coffin’s attention to detail brings to life a summer day from the past, blending historical significance with a deeply personal story.
In this idyllic scene, the Butler family is featured in front of their stately residence. Tabetha stands with her husband, Donald, while their children—Michael, Peter, and Molly—animate the foreground with youthful energy. Michael and Peter are shown playing in the yard. Molly is nearby, in an antique stroller, and her presence is a quiet anchor to the lively tableau. Even the family pet is depicted as a playful companion, adding warmth and personality to the composition.
The home itself, with its commanding Greek Revival architecture, stands as a testament to Ashville’s historical legacy. Coffin captures its distinctive features—the symmetrical façade and elegant details—imbuing the structure with a timeless beauty. A flag gently hangs on the porch, adding a patriotic touch that underscores the family’s connection to their community.
Coffin’s ability to weave personal narrative with historical reverence makes Butler Home a poignant celebration of family and place. It is more than a painting; it is a window into cherished memories and a tribute to a home that has stood as a pillar of Ashville’s rich heritage.
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