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Backwoodsman by Anne Langton

Sketch of a woodcutter, sitting on a stump with an ax dressed as a habitant

Anne Langton’s “Backwoodsman in his winter costume” circa 1838 watercolour over graphite, on cream wove paper.

Used with permission of City of Kawartha Lakes Archives.

This is a detailed sketch of a woodsman leaning against a stump, with an axe in his right hand.  Many consider this miniature to be a painting of John Langton done by his sister Anne Langton for family in England.

Unlike John’s European counterparts, who would be leaning against a piece of furniture or pedestal and dressed in their best attire; the woodsman is dressed in pioneer gear, a blanket coat, woollen sash, soft moccasins, warm trousers, and a cap.