Martha Robertshaw
An American Artist: 1898-1989
History of Martha Robertshaw
1898 - Born Vera Robbins to Hattie and Nelson Robbins. Oldest of 7 children in Shinglehouse, Pa, population 1,350.
1907 - Father killed in a railroad accident. Sent to Big Flats at the age of 9 to her grandmother's house. Changed her name to Martha.
1924 - Married Charles G Robertshaw, and became Martha Robertshaw at the age of 26. They had one son, George Robertshaw. Charles Robertshaw returned from the War and eventually became an invalid
1942 - Martha began her painting of the interior of the home. Work completed over a ten year period.
1950 - Article in the Star-Gazette. Voted into the Elmira Art Club
1958 - Husband Charles died. He is buried at Woodlawn Cemetery. They were married for 34 years.
1960-1970s - Martha did housework and child care. Later on she took care of the elderly in her home.
1989 - Martha died. She is buried at Woodlawn Cemetery
1994 - Martha's son George died.
2009 - Martha Robertshaw Exhibit at the Big Flats Town Community Center opened, with Murals recreated.
2017 - Martha's house is sold to Don and Robin Ferrario. The paintings are removed and stored.
House at 83 Fisherville Road

