Catherine Drinker Bowen

Date of Birth: January 1, 1897

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: November 1, 1973

Biography

Catherine Drinker Bowen was an acclaimed American writer best known for her biographies of notable historical figures. Born into a prominent family, Bowen initially pursued music, studying violin at the Peabody Institute and later teaching music. However, her passion for writing led her to a successful literary career. Bowen’s writing was characterized by meticulous research and engaging narrative style, bringing historical personalities to life for her readers. She authored several acclaimed biographies, including “Yankee from Olympus,” a biography of Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, and “Miracle at Philadelphia,” which detailed the Constitutional Convention of 1787. Her work earned her numerous accolades, including the National Book Award for Nonfiction.

5 Interesting Facts about Catherine Drinker Bowen

1. Catherine Drinker Bowen was awarded the National Book Award for Nonfiction in 1958 for her biography “The Lion and the Throne,” a book about Sir Edward Coke.

2. She was a descendant of the prominent Drinker family, known for their contributions to American history and society.

3. Bowen initially pursued a career in music and taught violin before transitioning to writing.

4. Her biography “Yankee from Olympus” was adapted into a television film in 1954.

5. Bowen was known for her extensive and meticulous research, often spending years gathering materials for her biographies.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Catherine Drinker Bowen

1. “A good biography is like a novel, which can sweep you into another person’s life and time.”

2. “Historical accuracy does not mean lack of imagination.”

3. “To understand the present, one must first understand the past.”

4. “The biographer’s task is to capture the essence of a person, not just their deeds.”

5. “Writing is both an art and a science; it requires creativity and rigorous discipline.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Catherine Drinker Bowen’s highest net worth is not publicly documented, but she achieved significant acclaim and financial success through her bestselling biographies.

Children

Catherine Drinker Bowen had two children, a son named Robert Bowen and a daughter named Catherine Bowen. Both children were supportive of their mother’s literary career and contributed to preserving her legacy.