Markham, Edwin, 1852-1940
Biography
Edwin Markham was born on April 23, 1852 in Oregon. Markham taught literature in El Dorado County until 1879, when he became education superintendent of the county. While residing in El Dorado County, Markham became a member of Placerville Masonic Lodge. He also accepted a job as principal of Tompkins Observation School in Oakland, California, in 1890. Edwin Markham's most famous poem, "The Man with the Hoe," which accented laborers' hardships, was first presented at a public poetry reading in 1898. In 1922, Markham's poem "Lincoln, the Man of the People" was selected from 250 entries to be read at the dedication of the Lincoln Memorial. From 1923 to 1931 he was Poet Laureate of Oregon. Markham died on March 7, 1940.
Found in 1 Collection or Record:
Edwin Markham papers
Edwin Markham (1852-1940), poet. The collection contains correspondence and typescripts and printed versions of published and unpublished poetry. Includes the manuscript of a biography of Markham by his long-time secrectary and friend, Leonora Mackay, clippings and photographs. Correspondents include Eugene V. Brewster, Richard Danielson, Russell Doubleday, Leonora Mackay, Robert Mackay, Virgil Markham, and Harry E. Maule.