Kate Sanborn

Born in Hanover, New Hampshire, in 1839, Kate Sanborn grew up in a strongly literary family: her father, Edwin David Sanborn, taught at Dartmouth, and she was related through her mother to the Webster family. Sources describe her as an author, teacher, and lecturer who became known for her bright, practical, often humorous writing.

Sanborn taught English literature at Smith College in its early years and went on to build a successful public career as a lecturer and writer. She published widely in essays, literary compilations, and books that highlighted wit and conversation, including work connected with women writers and humor.

She later became closely associated with Breezy Meadows, her farm in Massachusetts, which added another dimension to her public image. Remembered as energetic, sociable, and versatile, she died in 1917 after a career that moved easily between literature, education, and public speaking.