Hiram Powers was born on this day in 1805. Powers grew up on the family farm in Woodstock before moving about for education and employment. He found work at a clock and organ company, where he quickly mastered construction and became a head engineer.

His real talent would evolve, however, when he started visiting a nearby art studio and developed a passion for scultpture. Powers became one of the leading scultpors of his time.

His work titled, The Greek Slave depicts a nude woman bound in handcuffs. The exquisite craftsmanship made Hiram Powers America’s most famous sculptor.

Photo courtesy the Vermont Historical Society.

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