Early Life & Education
Orpheus Hodge Fisher, known as “King,” was born in Oxford, Pennsylvania, on July 11, 1900. His father, George Albert Fisher, was a Lincoln University instructor, therefore education was revered in the Fisher family. Annie B., Augustus Milford, Josephine, Pauline, and Willie John Fisher were Orpheus’ siblings. Despite his siblings’ unknown birth and death dates, their ties show a strong family.
Orpheus presumably learnt academic and social skills at Central Friends Seminary in Philadelphia and Wilmington Central High School in Delaware. The diversity of his early education prepared him for a profession as an architect. His school background may have sharpened his passion and talents in architecture, preparing him for his career.
Early Life & Education Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | July 11, 1900 |
| Birth Place | Oxford, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Parents | George Albert Fisher and Pauline Conklin Fisher |
| Siblings | Annie B. Fisher, Augustus Milford Fisher, Josephine Fisher, Pauline Fisher, Willie John Fisher |
| Education | Central Friends Seminary in Philadelphia, Wilmington Central High School in Delaware |
Career
The architect Orpheus Fisher made many contributions to the field. He worked for Zantzinger, Borie & Medary, Stanley, Heacock & Hokanson, United Engineers & Constructors, RCA Victor, and the 1939 New York World’s Fair Corporation. He was versatile and adaptable in architectural design and engineering tasks, demonstrating his career flexibility and expertise.
He designed Philadelphia theatres, demonstrating his ability to create public venues for amusement. His work on the 1939 New York World’s Fair Corporation shows his engagement in big national events and cultural effect. Orpheus Fisher improved community spaces and architecture, establishing a legacy in urban planning and public accessibility.
Career Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Profession | Architect |
| Notable Employers | Zantzinger, Borie & Medary; Stanley Company; Heacock & Hokanson; United Engineers & Constructors; RCA Victor Company; 1939 New York World’s Fair Corporation |
| Specialization | Designing theaters in Philadelphia |
Personal Life
Two marriages defined Orpheus Fisher’s life. First married to Ida Gould in 1924; divorced in 1940. Orpheus fathered James Gould Fisher, born in 1925, from this connection. He married Marian Anderson, a famous contralto and civil rights activist, again in 1943. This childless marriage united two accomplished architects and musicians.
Orpheus spent a lot of time at “Marianna Farm,” Marian Anderson’s Danbury, Connecticut property. The farm was their home and a symbol of their love of nature and peace away from the city. This remote hideaway represents his peaceful and collaborative existence, contributing to his legacy.
Personal Life Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| First Marriage | Ida Gould (married 1924; divorced 1940) |
| Second Marriage | Marian Anderson (married 1943; no children) |
| Children | One son, James Gould Fisher, from first marriage |
| Residence | “Marianna Farm,” Danbury, Connecticut |
Legacy
The legacy of Orpheus Fisher is tied to his personal and professional life. His 100-acre Danbury, Connecticut home, “Marianna Farm,” symbolises his tangible legacy with Marian Anderson. After Marian Anderson’s death in 1992, the farm was sold to developers, ending an era for the land with so many memories and contributions.
His burial in Wooster Cemetery in Danbury, Connecticut, honours his long-time home. His final resting place further connects him to his community. A well-lived life is reflected in Orpheus Fisher’s architecture, relationships, and partnership with Marian Anderson.
Legacy Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Residence | “Marianna Farm,” Danbury, Connecticut |
| Final Resting Place | Wooster Cemetery, Danbury, Connecticut |
FAQ
Where was Orpheus H. Fisher born?
Orpheus H. Fisher was born in Oxford, Pennsylvania.
What did Orpheus H. Fisher do?
Theatres and the 1939 New York World’s Fair were among his architectural works.
Who was Orpheus Fisher’s second wife?
His second wife was famous contralto and civil rights crusader Marian Anderson.
Did Orpheus Fisher have any children?
He had one son, James Gould Fisher, from his first marriage to Ida Gould.
What is “Marianna Farm”?
Orpheus Fisher and Marian Anderson lived on 100-acre “Marianna Farm” in Danbury, Connecticut.
