Third Red Cross Roll Call by William Haskell Coffin

A Red Cross nurse with outstretched arms seeks volunteers. William Haskell Coffin was an American painter and commercial artist who made a significant impact in the early decades of the twentieth century. Born on October 21, 1878, in Charleston, South Carolina, Coffin’s artistic journey took him from the Corcoran School of Art in Washington, DC, to France, where he honed his skills as an artist. His work graced the covers of prominent magazines across the United States, including ‘The Saturday Evening Post’, ‘The American Magazine’, ‘Redbook’, ‘McCall’s’, ‘Leslie’s Illustrated’, and the ‘Pictorial Review’. Coffin specialized in portraying women, and his captivating images became iconic in the world of magazine illustration. As one of the highest-paid illustrators of his time, Coffin’s talent extended beyond magazines. He also created posters commissioned by the US government, leaving a lasting mark on visual communication during that era. His ability to capture the essence of femininity and elegance resonated with audiences, making his work instantly recognizable. However, despite his professional success, Coffin faced personal struggles. He was married twice, with his second wife being the actress Frances Starr. Unfortunately, Coffin battled depression, and tragically, he died by suicide on May 12, 1941, while receiving treatment in an institution in St. Petersburg, Florida.