Frederick Bosley

(Am. 1881-1942)

Portrait of Helen Storrow

Oil on canvas, unframed

Indistinct inscription verso

29 3/4" x 21 7/8" actual

Helen Storrow (1864-1944) was a philanthropist and early Girl Scout leader who embraced and embodied progressive politics in her work and personal life. She was married to James J. Storrow in 1891. Despite his lineage as part of Boston’s elite, James shared Helen’s progressive outlook. As a successful businessman and banker, Storrow amassed a great fortune. The couple used their wealth and influence for the public good, building playgrounds in poor neighborhoods, supporting education and civil service reform, and campaigning for religious and racial equality. Helen was particularly interested in advancing the welfare and independence of girls and women. She provided Edith Guerrier and the “Saturday Girls” with funding to establish the Paul Revere pottery line, which created enjoyable and sustainable jobs for women. Helen also became highly involved with the Girl Scouts, and in 1932 founded Our Chalet, an international Girl Scouts center in Switzerland. Today, Boston’s Storrow Drive carries James Storrow’s namesake, despite Helen’s public opposition to the roadway in favor of James’s ecological concerns.