Morris Phillips

Born in London on May 9, 1834, he was educated first in Cleveland, Ohio, and later with private tutors in New York. Although he initially studied law in Buffalo and New York, journalism won out when he joined Nathaniel Parker Willis as associate editor of the New York Home Journal in September 1854.

He remained closely tied to the Home Journal until Willis's death in January 1867, then became its chief editor and sole proprietor. Contemporary reference works describe him as a prolific writer and an extensive traveler, and that mix of newsroom experience and firsthand observation shaped much of his work.

His books include Abroad and at Home; Practical Hints for Tourists, a guide that reflects his practical, observant approach to travel writing. He died in 1904, leaving behind the record of a long career in American journalism and literary publishing.