Donald G. Mitchell

Date of Birth: April 12, 1822

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: December 15, 1908

Biography

Donald G. Mitchell, born on April 12, 1822, in Norwich, Connecticut, was a distinguished American essayist and novelist best known for his works that reflect a deep love for rural life and horticulture. Writing under the pseudonym Ik Marvel, Mitchell captured the imagination of 19th-century readers with his reflective and pastoral essays. He graduated from Yale College in 1841 and subsequently studied law, although his primary passion lay in literature. His most famous work, “Reveries of a Bachelor” (1850), became a bestseller and remains a classic in American literature. Mitchell’s other notable works include “Dream Life” (1851) and “My Farm of Edgewood” (1863), where he shared his experiences and philosophy on farming and rural living. He spent much of his life at his estate, Edgewood, in New Haven, Connecticut, where he indulged in his love for gardening and landscape design. Donald G. Mitchell passed away on December 15, 1908, leaving behind a legacy of literary contributions that celebrated simplicity, nature, and the contemplative life.

5 Interesting Facts about Donald G. Mitchell

1. Donald G. Mitchell wrote under the pen name Ik Marvel.

2. His book “Reveries of a Bachelor” was a bestseller and is considered a classic in American literature.

3. He was an avid gardener and landscape designer, which heavily influenced his writing.

4. Mitchell graduated from Yale College in 1841 and initially studied law before fully devoting himself to writing.

5. He lived at his estate, Edgewood, in New Haven, Connecticut, for much of his life, where he practiced farming and horticulture.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Donald G. Mitchell

1. “There is no greater joy than that of feeling oneself a creator. The triumph of life is expressed by creation.”

2. “Life’s best balm—kind, faithful friends.”

3. “I believe that there is a kind of poetry in simple, rustic life.”

4. “We only half live when we only half think.”

5. “Happiness is not found in things you possess, but in what you have the courage to release.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

There are no precise records of Donald G. Mitchell’s net worth at the height of his career. As a successful author and landowner, it is estimated that he achieved a comfortable and affluent lifestyle for his time.

Children

Donald G. Mitchell had several children. His family life and the experiences he shared with his children often influenced his writings about rural life and farming.