Frank Crowninshield

Date of Birth: June 24, 1872

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: August 17, 1947

Biography

Francis “Frank” Welch Crowninshield was an influential American journalist, editor, and tastemaker, best known for his role as the editor of Vanity Fair magazine during its golden era in the early 20th century. Born into a prominent Boston family, Crowninshield gravitated towards the arts and literature at a young age. He graduated from Harvard University, where he developed a keen interest in writing and editing. His career took off when he joined Vogue magazine, but his legacy was cemented when he took the helm at Vanity Fair in 1914. Under his leadership, the magazine became a cultural touchstone, featuring contributions from luminaries such as Dorothy Parker, Robert Benchley, and P.G. Wodehouse. Crowninshield’s keen eye for talent and his ability to blend high culture with popular appeal made Vanity Fair an essential read. He retired in 1935 but remained an influential figure in the literary and social circles until his death in 1947.

5 Interesting Facts about Frank Crowninshield

1. Frank Crowninshield was instrumental in launching the careers of many famous writers and artists through his work at Vanity Fair.

2. He was a prominent figure in the Algonquin Round Table, a celebrated group of New York City writers, critics, and actors.

3. Crowninshield was an avid art collector and was influential in introducing modern art to American audiences.

4. He served on the board of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and was actively involved in various cultural and philanthropic activities.

5. Crowninshield wrote several books, including a memoir titled “A History of the City of Brooklyn and Kings County.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Frank Crowninshield

1. “The best way to become acquainted with a subject is to write a book about it.”

2. “Vanity Fair is a magazine of wit and wisdom, calculated to appeal to the cultivated and the curious.”

3. “Art is the only way to run away without leaving home.”

4. “A good editor is not a writer, but a reader who knows what the public wants.”

5. “The true worth of a man is to be measured by the objects he pursues.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

The highest net worth achieved by Frank Crowninshield is estimated to be around $2 million, a substantial amount for his time, considering his investments in art and his successful career in journalism.

Children

Frank Crowninshield had one child, a daughter named Louise Crowninshield, who followed in her father’s footsteps to some extent by becoming an advocate for historic preservation.