Grace Greenwood's Career as a Writer, Performer, and Lecturer
The exhibit page seeks to showcase items related to Grace Greenwood as a writer, performer, and lecturer. It particularly focuses on Greenwood as a gossip columnist and speaks to how she dealt with intimate knowledge in her 'gossipy' aesthetics to emerge as a writer of unique style.
Greenwood's "Notes from over the Sea," New York Times, Sep 24, 1876
Greenwood's "Notes from over the Sea," New York Times, Sep 6, 1875
Greenwood's "Notes from over the Sea," New York Times, Jan 9, 1876
Greenwood's "Notes from over the Sea," New York Times, Dec 9, 1878
Below, you can find some letters which speak to Grace Greenwood's reputation as perceived by the Brownings. Elizabeth Barrett Browning's attitude toward Greenwood changes significantly after she meets the journalist. Initially, Browning believes Greenwood to be a scandal-mongering journalist who capitalizes on her social networks by publishing intimate stories. Browning grows fond of Greenwood, which she admits in her correspondence to various addressees. Eventually, the Brownings find themselves in one of Greenwood's books. It is, however, a "flaming" account of them.
Letter from Elizabeth Barrett Browning to Isa Blagden, March 3, [1853]
Letter from Elizabeth Barrett Browning to Mary Russel Mitford, May 20, [1853]
Letter from Elizabeth Barrett Browning to Isa Blagden, June 1, [1853]
Letter from Elizabeth Barrett Browning to Arabella Moulton-Barrett, June 11, [1853]
Letter From Robert Browning to William Wetmore Story, [March 29, 1854]
Greenwood's correspondence with James T. Fields between 1848 and 1854, in which she repeatedly interferes with the editing and publishing process of her works, pushing him to do her favors, contribute material, advertise her works, etc. It is the time that she publishes her most-read works, Greenwood Leaves and Haps and Mishaps of a Tour in Europe. Greenwood sends or instructs Fields to send copies of her works to people that may write about the publications. She has a clear idea of what may help to increase her market value. In often witty but demanding letters, Greenwood advises Fields what to do next and requires him to work faster. The correspondence shows several ideas for the title of Greenwood Leaves and publication processes such as proof reading and copyright issues. The letters also elucidate who Greenwood admires or regularly corresponds with. In 1848, Greenwood is junior editor for The Lady's Book. Other publications mentioned are the Era, Little Pilgrim, Phrenological Journal, Philadelphia Post, Transcript, Saturday Evening Post, Daily Register, etc.