Bradford Torrey

Born in Weymouth, Massachusetts, on October 9, 1843, he was educated in the local public schools, taught for a time, and later worked in business in Boston. In 1886 he became an assistant editor at The Youth's Companion, while also contributing essays and sketches to magazines.

He is remembered as a naturalist, essayist, and ornithologist whose writing focused especially on birds and outdoor life. Although his first book appeared when he was already in his forties, he went on to publish a substantial body of nature writing, including Birds in the Bush, A Rambler's Lease, The Foot-Path Way, and Footing It in Franconia. His work is often praised for combining close observation with an easy, companionable voice.

Torrey died in Santa Barbara, California, on October 7, 1912. More than a century later, his essays still appeal to readers who enjoy nature writing that is attentive, calm, and full of curiosity.