author
L. K. (Lemuel Kelley) Washburn
1846–1927
A sharp, outspoken voice in American freethought, he wrote essays and books that challenged religious orthodoxy and argued for reasoned skepticism. His work still stands out for its direct style and fearless debate.
1 Audiobook
Is The Bible Worth Reading, and Other Essays
by L. K. (Lemuel Kelley) Washburn
About the author
Lemuel Kelley Washburn (1846–1927) was an American freethought writer remembered for his skeptical essays, atheist commentary, and work as an editor for the Boston Investigator, an early U.S. newspaper devoted to freethought.
He also compiled Cosmian Hymn Book: A Collection of Original and Selected Hymns (1888), a volume described as free of sectarian bias. His writings include The Foolishness of Prayer and Is the Bible Worth Reading and Other Essays, works that reflect his interest in religion, ethics, and public argument.
Washburn's appeal today lies in his plain, forceful prose. He wrote for readers who wanted bold criticism of accepted beliefs, and his books remain of interest to listeners curious about the history of American secular and freethought writing.