He was known in the late 19th century as the highest paid newspaper artist in the country.

At age 14 he was apprenticed to an engraver in New York City, and after a year rented a studio with artist Henry Lovie (1829–1875).

[2] From 1875 his illustrations appeared in such publications as Leslie's Weekly, Harper's, and the New York World.

He moved to Chicago in 1877, and worked as book publisher, designer, and illustrator.

He married Bertha Adele Mitchell on September 29, 1907.