Linnie Marsh Wolfe, American librarian and author (d. 1945)

Linnie Marsh Wolfe (January 8, 1881 – September 15, 1945) was an eminent American librarian and a distinguished biographer, whose profound contributions to literature and historical scholarship were notably recognized posthumously.

Her most celebrated work, a comprehensive biography of the esteemed naturalist and conservationist John Muir, earned her the prestigious 1946 Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography. This esteemed accolade, awarded after her passing in September 1945, honored her seminal 1945 publication, "Son of the Wilderness: The Life of John Muir" (New York: A. A. Knopf). The posthumous nature of this award highlights the enduring scholarly value and literary impact of her rigorous research and compelling narrative.

The biography meticulously chronicles the life of John Muir (1838–1914), a pivotal figure in American environmental history. Muir is widely celebrated as a pioneering advocate for the preservation of wild lands and is often referred to as the "Father of the National Parks" for his tireless efforts in establishing the national park system, including Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks. Wolfe’s "Son of the Wilderness" provides an invaluable, detailed account of Muir's formative experiences, his extensive travels, his scientific observations, and his profound influence on the American conservation movement, solidifying its place as a cornerstone text for understanding one of America’s most important environmental voices. Linnie Marsh Wolfe’s work remains a vital resource for scholars and enthusiasts seeking a deep understanding of John Muir’s legacy and the early history of environmentalism in the United States.

Who was Linnie Marsh Wolfe?

Linnie Marsh Wolfe was an American librarian and a highly regarded biographer, best known for her Pulitzer Prize-winning biography of John Muir.

What was Linnie Marsh Wolfe's major achievement?

Her most significant achievement was winning the 1946 Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography for her book "Son of the Wilderness: The Life of John Muir," which was published in 1945.

When did Linnie Marsh Wolfe win the Pulitzer Prize?

She won the Pulitzer Prize in 1946, notably after her death in September 1945, making it a posthumous award.

What was "Son of the Wilderness: The Life of John Muir" about?

This acclaimed biography details the life, work, and environmental advocacy of John Muir (1838–1914), who is renowned as a pioneering naturalist and a key figure in the establishment of America's national park system.