Sarah Josepha Hale
Novelist
Early American writer who is remembered for penning the "Mary Had a Little Lamb" nursery rhyme. She also wrote a poetry volume titled "The Genius of Oblivion."
She worked as a grade school teacher before starting her career as a writer and editor. She published her first novel, "Northwood: Life North and South," in 1827.
She played an influential role in turning Thanksgiving into a recognized American holiday.
She married David Hale on October 23, 1813. The couple subsequently had five children: David, Horatio, Frances, Sarah, and William.
She published the work of Frances Osgood while working as an editor for Godey's Lady Book.