Boston’s cultural life was enriched by singer and clubwoman Bertha May Cushing Child. She was born in Stamford, Connecticut, on September 11, 1871, to a ministerial and artistic family. As the mother of ambassador Paul Cushing Child and Julia Child’s mother-in-law, she left a legacy.
Early Life and Education
Her Methodist minister father gave Bertha a superb upbringing. Her family prioritized education and the arts, thus she loved music early on. Her early life in brief:
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1871 | Born in Stamford, Connecticut |
| 1899 | Married Charles Tripler Child |
| 1902 | Became a widow with three young children |
Musical Career
Boston music fans admired Bertha Cushing Child, a “true contralto” vocalist. Her recitals and performances earned her a reputation as a classical musician. Briefly, her musical career:
| Year | Achievement |
|---|---|
| 1900s | Gained recognition as a contralto singer |
| 1900s | Performed with the Boston Symphony |
| 1930s | Celebrated for her “luscious” voice |
Personal Life
Bertha had triumphs and tragedies in her personal life. Three years after marrying Charles Tripler Child in 1899, she lost him. Her children and singing profession were her priority despite this adversity. A look at her personal life:
| Family Member | Relationship | Birth Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charles Tripler Child | Husband | 1870 | Electrical engineer, died in 1902 |
| Paul Cushing Child | Son | 1902 | Diplomat and artist |
| Charles Jesse Child | Son | 1902 | Twin brother of Paul |
| Mary Child Franklin Munro | Daughter | 1900 | Also known as Meeda |
Legacy and Death
Bertha Cushing Child died of pneumococcic meningitis in Paris on February 9, 1933. She was cremated and buried in Père Lachaise. Her artistic achievements and effect on her children are considerable. Key aspects about her legacy:
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1933 | Died in Paris |
| 1933 | Cremated and interred at Père Lachaise |
| Posthumously | Remembered for her artistic contributions and family legacy |
Family Connections
Through her son Paul Cushing Child, Bertha has ties to American cultural leaders. Paul was famous ambassador and married Julia Child, who popularized French cuisine in America. Family ties are summarized below:
| Family Member | Relationship | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| Paul Cushing Child | Son | Diplomat and author |
| Julia Child | Daughter-in-law | Celebrated chef and author |
| Rev. John Russell Cushing | Father | Methodist minister |
| Mary Hebard Cushing | Mother | Influential in early family life |
FAQ
Bertha Cushing Child’s job?
Contralto vocalist Bertha Cushing Child was famous in Boston and abroad.
Children of Bertha Cushing Child?
Her children were diplomat Paul Cushing Child and twin Charles Jesse Child.
When did Bertha Cushing Child die?
She died in Paris on February 9, 1933.
What did Bertha Cushing Child do for art?
She sang classically with Boston’s top music groups and was noted for her contralto voice.
