author

Charles E. Moldenke

1860–1935

A Lutheran minister with a deep fascination for ancient Egypt, he wrote accessible books that helped bring obelisks, language, and religion into view for general readers. His work moved between the pulpit and the study, blending scholarship with a gift for explanation.

1 Audiobook

The New York Obelisk: Cleopatra's Needle With a Preliminary Sketch of the History, Erection, Uses, and Signification of Obelisks

The New York Obelisk: Cleopatra's Needle With a Preliminary Sketch of the History, Erection, Uses, and Signification of Obelisks

by Charles E. Moldenke

About the author

Born on October 10, 1860, in Lyck, East Prussia, Charles Edward Moldenke became an American Lutheran clergyman, scholar, and writer. He studied at Columbia and later at the University of Strasbourg, was ordained in 1885, and served pastorates in New Jersey and New York.

Alongside his church work, he built a reputation as an Egyptologist and a specialist in ancient Near Eastern languages. He wrote several books, including The New York Obelisk, Cleopatra's Needle, and was known for explaining Egyptian history and religion to a wider audience in a clear, approachable way.

Moldenke died on January 18, 1935. He is also remembered as the father of botanist Harold N. Moldenke, and as a figure whose career joined ministry, teaching, and historical research.