High Quality Content by WIKIPEDIA articles! Alphaeus Philemon Cole (July 12, 1876 – November 25, 1988) was an American artist, engraver and etcher. He was born in Jersey City, New Jersey and died in New York City. He was the son of noted engraver Timothy Cole. At the time of his death, at age 112 years and 136 days, Alphaeus was the world`s oldest verified living recognized man.