UMD Libraries receives gift of rare books and ephemera relating American Writer Sarah Josepha Hale
The gift will be incorporated into the Literature and Rare Books collection in the Libraries’ Special Collections and University Archives.
UMD Libraries’ Special Collections and University Archives is pleased to announce the recent gift of rare books and ephemera relating to American writer, editor, and advocate for women Sarah Josepha Hale (1788-1879), best known for authoring the nursery rhyme Mary Had a Little Lamb. This generous gift was made by Steven Canter in honor of his mother Jeanette (Nee Kirsch) Canter Traum.
Hale was the first female editor of two popular 19th century American publications, The Ladies' Magazine and Godey's Lady's Book, one of the most widely circulated and successful women’s magazines in America. She was an advocate for women's education and economic independence and in 1846, she petitioned to make Thanksgiving a national holiday. The nursery rhyme Mary Had a Little Lamb, first appeared in her 1830 book Poems for Our Children.
The collection consists of works about Hale and works she authored and edited including over 70 volumes of Godey's Lady's Book and will be incorporated into the Literature and Rare Books collection in Hornbake Library. This collection will support research related to Sarah Josepha Hale, 19th century American publication history, women in 19th century America, and much more. Once cataloged, these materials will be available to students, researchers, faculty, and visitors in the Maryland Room.