Gladys Allen

Born in Crawford, Texas, in 1897, she studied at Mary Hardin-Baylor College and graduated from Baylor University in June 1918. She began her career as a school principal in Delia, Texas, then taught English in the Waco public schools for many years.

Alongside her writing, she became deeply involved with Baylor University. Records from Baylor describe her as a trustee, benefactor, and advocate for women's education, and her papers show interests that ranged from community work to genealogy and church life.

She is best remembered as the author of the children's novel Dig Here! and for the lasting mark she left on Baylor, where Allen Hall was later named in her honor. The available sources focus more on her educational and civic work than on her literary career, but they suggest a life shaped by learning, service, and a strong connection to Texas.