Seba Smith
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Seba Smith (September 14, 1792 - July 28, 1868) was an American humorist and writer. He was married to Elizabeth Oakes (Prince) Smith, also a major writer and feminist.
Born in Buckfield, Maine, Smith graduated from Bowdoin College in 1818 and then lived in Portland, Maine. He edited various papers including the Eastern Argus and then founded the Portland Courier and edited it from 1830 to 1837.
He was one of the first writers to use American vernacular in humor. His series with the New England character Major Jack Downing was popular after its start in 1830. His dry, satirical humor influenced other 19th century humorists, including Artemas Ward and Finley Peter Dunne. He is also credited as being a forerunner of other American humorists like Will Rogers.
[edit] References
- Rolde, Neil (1990). Maine: A Narrative History. Gardiner, Me: Harpswell Press, 151-152. ISBN 0-88448-069-0.
