Arts and Humanities Commons^™

Martha J. Lamb (1826-1893) Brought American History To Life, Janet Butler Munch

Publications and Research

Through her writings and editorial work, Martha J. Lamb did more to foster widespread interest in the emerging field of American history than perhaps any other individual in the 19th century. She achieved national recognition as editor of the Magazine of American History which preacher Henry Ward Beecher considered an “historical gold mine.” Historian Francis Parkman even claimed, “every student of American history has a stake in its success and prosperity.” That Lamb and her work were so highly regarded in the historical community, then considered a ‘man’s preserve,’ can only be appreciated by knowing the attributes and affiliations she …