author
William Allen White
1868–1944
Best known as the longtime editor of the Emporia Gazette, he became one of the most recognizable voices in American journalism, mixing small-town perspective with sharp political commentary. His writing helped make him the "Sage of Emporia" and earned him a lasting place in Kansas and U.S. literary history.
5 Audiobooks
In Our Town
by William Allen White
The Martial Adventures of Henry and Me
by William Allen White
A Certain Rich Man
by William Allen White
In the Heart of a Fool
by William Allen White
The Court of Boyville
by William Allen White
About the author
Born in Emporia, Kansas, on February 10, 1868, William Allen White grew up in El Dorado and went on to work in newspapers before buying the Emporia Gazette in 1895. From that paper, he built a national reputation as an editor, columnist, and public thinker whose work reached far beyond Kansas.
White was known for plainspoken, lively writing and for his role in Progressive-era public life. He wrote influential editorials, commented widely on politics and civic life, and also published books, including his autobiography. During his career he received two Pulitzer Prizes, and he was widely remembered as the "Sage of Emporia."
He died in Emporia on January 29, 1944. Even after his death, his name remained closely tied to Kansas journalism and literature, and he is still remembered as a writer who brought warmth, humor, and strong opinions to public debate.