Title:
Ina Coolbrith poem, 1907
Coolbrith Poem
Creator/Contributor:
Coolbrith, Ina D. (Ina Donna), 1841-1928, creator
Abstract:
Handwritten poem by Ina Coolbrith to Leone Cadenasso dated April 2, 1907.
Date:
1907 (issued)
Subject:
n-us-ca
Poetry
Poets laureate -- California
Note:
Ina Coolbrith was born Josephine Donna Smith (niece of Mormon Church founder Joseph Smith), in Nauvoo, Illinois on March 10,
1841. Her father died of pneumonia five months later, and after her uncle's murder, which coincided with the Mormons' expulsion
from Illinois, Josephine's mother took her to St. Louis and married William Pickett. In 1851 the family traveled overland
to California; in the process Josephine entered the new state on horseback with famed scout Jim Beckwourth. Settling in Los
Angeles, Josephine began writing poetry and, after a short marriage, moved to the San Francisco area. There, she shortened
her first name to Ina, and took her mother's maiden name. Ina became associate editor of the Overland Monthly, wrote more
poetry, and became acquainted with many of the leading literary figures of the day, including Bret Harte, Joaquin Miller,
and Charles Warren Stoddard. In later years she mentored Jack London and George Sterling. Coolbrith also worked as head librarian
in Oakland for many years, and in 1915 was named the first Poet Laureate of California. Ina Coolbrith died on February 29,
1928.
Coolbrith Poem
Unrestricted. Please credit California State Library.
Physical Description:
print
1 file folder; 14 3/4 x 9 5/8 in.
Language:
English
Identifier:
Origin:
California
Copyright Note:
Unrestricted. Please credit California State Library.