Grace Greenwood

Born Sara Jane Clarke in Pompey, New York, in 1823, she became widely known by the pen name Grace Greenwood. She began publishing while still young and went on to build a remarkably varied career as a poet, essayist, correspondent, lecturer, and editor.

Her writing brought together literary charm and public purpose. Greenwood reported from Washington, traveled in Europe, wrote for children and adults, and gained notice as one of the first women allowed into the congressional press galleries. She used her platform to support social reform, including antislavery work and women's rights.

She later became associated with Pennsylvania as well as New York, and her long career helped make her one of the better-known American women writers of her day. Though less famous now than some of her contemporaries, she remains an appealing figure for readers interested in journalism, literature, and outspoken women of the 19th century.