Fern, Fanny, 1811-1872

Author; Journalist; Columnist; Children's author; Humorist.

Sara Payson Willis (Fanny Fern) born Portland, Maine, 1811; educated in Boston and at Catharine Beecher's seminary in Hartford, Connecticut. Married Charles Eldredge, 1837 (died 1846); had three daughters; married Samuel P. Farrington (divorced three years later); married James Parton, 1856. In 1851 she began writing for several small Boston magazines under the name Fanny Fern, and her pieces were soon picked up by numerous newspapers. Published collection of writings, Fern Leaves from Fanny's Port-Folio, 1853 which was an immediate bestseller; had a regular weekly column in the New York Ledger, as one of first women columnists. Co-founded New York City's pioneer woman's club, Sorosis, 1868. Died 1872. Ethel Parton born, New York, 1862. After death of her mother, was adopted by her grandparents, Sara Willis and James Parton. Educated at home at the school of Jane Andrews, and at the Putnam Free School in Newburyport, Massachusetts. After high school she worked for James Parton as "secretary, literary assistant, and occasional collaborator." Wrote for Youth's Companion and St. Nicholas, and at age 70 began writing children's books. Died 1944.

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