Martha Finley

Teacher, author

What is Martha Finley known for?

Born on April 26, 1828 in Chillicothe, Ohio, Martha Finley was an American teacher turned author who left an indelible mark on children's literature. Known by her pen name "Martha Farquharson," her most celebrated works include the Elsie Dinsmore and Mildred Keith series. The 28 volumes of the Elsie Dinsmore series, published over a span of 38 years, were treasured for their strong emphasis on religious belief and sentimentality.

Martha Finley belonged to a distinguished lineage. Her father, Dr. James B. Finley, was the son of General Samuel Finley, an officer during the American Revolution. Many other members of her family, like her mother's side, the Butlers, were notable military officials. One of her great uncles, Dr. Samuel Finley, served as one of the early presidents of Princeton College.

Raised in a family of such significance, Finley received private education in South Bend, Indiana. Her writing career commenced in 1853 with a newspaper story and a short publication by the Baptist Board. Initially, she wrote anonymously, but as her works gained popularity, she started using the pen name "Martha Farquharson."

Finley's literary career moved at an impressive pace from 1856 to 1870, during which she composed over twenty Sunday school books and multiple series for children. Some of her other notable works outside of children's literature include 'Wanted—A Pedigree', 'Signing the Contract', and 'Thorn in the Nest'.

A notable occurrence in Martha's life was her becoming a member of the Singerly Fire Company, the town's fire department in Elkton, Maryland, where she resided in the late years of her life. It is worth mentioning that she was the only woman listed on the rolls of the Elkton fire department until the mid-1970s.

She passed away on January 30, 1909, in Elkton, Maryland, leaving behind a rich legacy of notable and beloved works that continue to inspire and entertain young readers.