Price: A Glimpse into His Personal Life and Legacy

Price: A Glimpse into His Personal Life and Legacy

Beyond his professional contributions, the personal history of Price offers a window into the social and familial connections that shaped his life. From his roots in New England to his marriage into a prominent New York dynasty, his private journey is marked by both wealth and a lasting commitment to historical preservation.

Early Life and Marriage

Price was born in 1884 in Worcester, Massachusetts. His personal life took a significant turn on February 23, 1909, when he married Margaret Evans Price (1888–1973). Margaret was an accomplished artist and illustrator of children's books, bringing her own creative talents to the partnership.

Through this marriage, Price became connected to the wealthy Evans family of New York. This influential family held a significant position in the city's economy, having maintained an effective monopoly on the building material industry in New York for a period of time.

The Battle for Historical Preservation

The legacy of Price extends to the physical spaces he once inhabited, specifically his former residence in East Aurora. In 2014, the home became the center of a local controversy when the property owner proposed demolishing the structure to create a parking lot.

This proposal sparked intense debates among community members regarding whether the site should be destroyed or preserved for its local historical value. The conflict reached a resolution on May 1, 2014, when village trustees intervened and officially granted the house landmark status, ensuring its protection for future generations.

Key Facts

  • Birth: Born in Worcester, Massachusetts, in 1884.
  • Marriage: Married Margaret Evans Price on February 23, 1909.
  • Spouse's Background: Margaret was a children's book illustrator from a wealthy New York family.
  • Family Influence: The Evans family once dominated the New York building material industry.
  • Preservation: His East Aurora home was granted landmark status on May 1, 2014.
Summary of Price's Personal Milestones
Category Details
Birth Year 1884
Birthplace Worcester, Massachusetts
Marriage Date February 23, 1909
Spouse Margaret Evans Price
Home Landmark Date May 1, 2014

Frequently Asked Questions

Where was Price born?

Price was born in Worcester, Massachusetts, in 1884.

Who was Margaret Evans Price?

Margaret Evans Price (1888–1973) was an artist and children's book illustrator who married Price in 1909.

What was the source of the Evans family's wealth?

The Evans family of New York achieved wealth by maintaining an effective monopoly on the building material industry in New York City.

What happened to Price's former home in East Aurora?

After a debate over whether to demolish the house for a parking lot, the village trustees granted the property landmark status on May 1, 2014, to preserve it for historical purposes.

References

  1. Latimer, Clay (1 February 2016). "Herman Fisher, A Groundbreaking American Toymaker". Investor's Business Daily. Retrieved 27 May 2025.
  2. "Irving Price". www.nndb.com. Retrieved 2021-01-08.
  3. "Margaret Evans Price Mural, Famous Painter, Illustrator". Aurora Theater. Retrieved 2025-05-27.
  4. "Historic East Aurora home where Price founded toy company is subject of demolition debate". Archived from the original on 2015-09-23.
  5. McDonnell, Pat (2014-05-08). "Price Home in EA Nominated as Local Landmark". The Herald-Courier. Retrieved 2024-05-25.