Jervis McEntee received his only recorded artistic training under Frederic E. Church in New York during the winter of 1850-51. He returned to his birthplace, however, and worked for several years in the flour-and-feed business while painting on the side. In 1854 he married Gertrude Sawyer, and four year later, they moved to New York where McEntee opened a studio. His painting, Melancholy Days, caused something of a sensation when it was exhibited at the 1860 National Academy of Design annual, and on the strength of that work, he was soon elected an Associate and Academician. He became known for his quiet landscapes set in the autumn and winter seasons.
Following the Civil War (in which he fought), McEntee made his only trip abroad. Leaving in 1868, he and his wife traveled through northern Europe to Italy where they met Church, John F. Weir, Sanford R. Gifford, William S. Haseltine, and George P. A. Healy. McEntee intended to visit Egypt and the Holy Land as well, but his time was limited, and in 1869 he returned to New York. During this period, his summers were ususally spent in Rondout; as he grew older, he spent less and less time in the city. Later travel included an 1881 trip to Nevada and a visit to Mexico (date unknown).
Within the Academy, McEntee was an active supporter of the conservative faction. Although he was only an officer once (recording secretary, 1867-8), his outspoken presence at meetings was often conspicuous. In the 1870s, for example, he worked against reformers such as Enoch W. Perry, and he opposed the election of John Q. A. Ward as president in 1873. Following his death, a sale of his work was held at the Fifth Avenue Galleries on March 29-30, 1892.
