Owen Wister

Date of Birth: July 14, 1860

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: July 21, 1938

Biography

Owen Wister was an influential American writer best known for his contributions to Western literature. Born into an affluent family in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Wister initially pursued a career in music and law, studying at Harvard University and later in Europe. However, his true passion lay in storytelling, particularly about the American West. Wister’s most famous work, “The Virginian,” published in 1902, is often credited with popularizing the Western genre. The novel introduced the archetype of the Western cowboy hero and has been adapted into multiple films and television series. Throughout his life, Wister maintained close friendships with other literary figures, such as Theodore Roosevelt and Henry James, and was an active member of the literary and social circles of his time.

5 Interesting Facts about Owen Wister

1. Owen Wister’s close friendship with Theodore Roosevelt greatly influenced his writings about the American West.

2. “The Virginian” is considered one of the first true Western novels and has never been out of print since its publication.

3. Wister was an accomplished pianist and initially wanted to pursue a career in music before turning to writing.

4. He served as the President of the American Academy of Arts and Letters.

5. Wister traveled extensively in the American West, which provided the rich descriptive background for his novels and stories.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Owen Wister

1. “When you call me that, smile!”

2. “The cowboy has always been a dying breed. But he takes his dreams with him.”

3. “A true cowboy knows love, pain, and shame but never cares about fame.”

4. “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning how to ride in the rain.”

5. “The West is a place of hope and dreams, and its spirit cannot be broken.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Wister’s peak net worth is difficult to ascertain as records from his era are not comprehensive, but he achieved considerable financial success from the enduring popularity of “The Virginian” and his other literary works.

Children

Owen Wister had six children with his wife, Mary Channing Wister. Their names were Owen Jones Wister, Mary Channing Wister, Elizabeth Wister, Fanny Kemble Wister, Marina Wister, and Sarah Butler Wister.