Mary Ann Mann Cornelius

Born in Pontiac, Michigan, in 1829, she wrote under the name Mrs. Mary A. Cornelius and became known as both an author and a social reformer. Her best-known book is Little Wolf: A Tale of the Western Frontier, and she also published The White Flame, showing an interest in both popular fiction and more unusual themes.

Her public life was closely tied to reform work. She was active in the temperance movement and served as president of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union in Arkansas. Sources also describe her as someone who helped create practical community resources, including a free reading room and circulating library during her years in Tacoma, Washington.

She died in 1918, leaving behind a career that joined writing with civic action. That mix of storytelling and public service makes her an interesting figure for listeners who enjoy rediscovering lesser-known American authors.