Fred C. (Fred Charters) Kelly

Fred C. Kelly was an American journalist, humorist, columnist, and author born in 1882 in Xenia, Ohio. He studied at the University of Michigan and went on to build a career in newspapers before becoming known for books that mixed clear reporting with an easy, engaging style.

He wrote on a range of subjects, but he is particularly associated with the Wright brothers. His book The Wright Brothers helped preserve and popularize the story of Wilbur and Orville Wright, and it remains one of the works most closely linked to his name.

Kelly died in 1959. Today he is remembered as a lively nonfiction writer who could make history feel personal, readable, and full of character.