Mary Way (1769-1833) and her sister Elizabeth (1771-1825) were born in New London, Conn., the daughters of Ebenezer Way (1728-1813) and Mary Taber Way (1737-1771). The sisters were both painters of small water colors. In 1794, Elizabeth married George Whitefield Champlain (1771-1820) of New London, a shipping merchant. They had four children: George Oliver (1796-1835); Eliza Way (1797-1886), who was also an artist; Samuel (1800-1844); and William (1802-1832). Mary Way moved to New York City about 1811 and advertised herself as a portrait and miniature painter, as well as a teacher of drawing. She had a studio in New York until 1820, when she went blind and returned to New London. Today she is recognized primarily as a producer of miniatures including "dressed miniatures." Eliza Way Champlain also pursued a career in painting in New York City until her marriage in 1826 to Edward Cort Riley (1799-ca. 1871), son of Edward Riley (1769-1829), a New York musical instrument manufacturer and music publisher. Edward C. Riley was himself a music teacher, publisher, and conductor. Elizabeth Champlain painted in New London throughout her adult life.
From the description of Correspondence, 1792-ca. 1904. (American Antiquarian Society). WorldCat record id: 191259840
