PARSONS, Charles, artist, born in Rowland's Castle, Hampshire, England, 8 May, 1821. He came to this country at an early age, and was educated in the common schools of New York city. Later he learned the art of lithography, and became a skilful illustrator. Since 1861 Mr. Parsons has been at the head of the art department of Harper and Brothers. His leisure hours, at long intervals, have been devoted to the painter's art, in landscape and marine views, and in oil and water-colors. He belongs to the New York watercolor society, and is an associate of the National academy of design, and frequently sends pictures to their annual exhibitions. Among his recent paintings are " An Old Orchard, Long Island" (1844) and " Amagansett, L. I." (1887).