Walt Mason

Born in Ontario in 1862, Walt Mason became a Canadian-born American journalist, humorist, and writer whose work reached a huge newspaper audience in the early 20th century. He worked for several papers before becoming closely associated with William Allen White's Emporia Gazette, and his daily column was later syndicated by George Matthew Adams to readers across the United States and Canada.

Mason was especially admired for his lively prose poems and light verse about ordinary life. His writing was funny without being mean, and thoughtful without sounding heavy, which helped make him a favorite with general readers. Collections such as Rippling Rhymes and Walt Mason, His Book helped preserve the work that had already made him a familiar name in newspapers.

He died in 1939, but his reputation has lasted as that of a plainspoken, highly readable writer who could turn common experience into memorable humor.