| Marion Parker | |
| Birth Name: | Marion Parker |
| Birth Date: | 1873 |
| Birth Place: | New Hampshire |
| Death Date: | 1935 (aged 62) |
| Death Place: | California |
| Alma Mater: | University of Michigan |
| Occupation: | Architect |
Marion Parker (1873–1935)[1] was the first female graduate in the College of Engineering and Architecture of the University of Michigan, worked with Purcell & Elmslie Architects, and established her own practice.
Marion Parker was the first female graduate in the College of Engineering and Architecture of the University of Michigan in 1895; the university awards two female students annually to honor her (at least in the mid-1970s).[2] After graduating she worked on skyscrapers in New York City.
Parker worked for William Gray Purcell and George Fieck in their Minneapolis office becoming their first drafter in 1908[3] and by 1912 became an important member in the small firm.[4] She produced working drawings for leaded glass panels and other craft items.
Established in 1909,[5] Purcell & Elmslie has been described as one of the most prolific of the Prairie School.[4] After adding George Grant Elmslie as partner in 1909, the firm dissolved in 1921.
However, Parker left in 1919 to start her own office.
In addition to architecture, Parker was a craftswoman. A member of the Minneapolis Arts and Crafts Society, she was also worked in textiles, especially rugs in the early 1900s; was a charter member of the chalk and chisel club; and garnered an exhibit prize in 1914.[6]
In retirement she moved to Luguna Beach and opened an arts and crafts shop, named "The Home-Spun Shop". Located in an arts colony she participated in Summer art fairs. While travelling to visit Purcell, she died of a heart attack.
Parker's collection is at the Northwest Architectural Archives, University of Minnesota Libraries, as are Purcell's papers.