Hester M. Poole

Hester M. Poole (née, Hunt; May 27, 1833/34 – 1932) was an American non-fiction writer, poet, and artist from Vermont. She began writing at an early age and contributed to numerous publications on a wide variety of topics, including decorative arts and philosophy. Poole traveled extensively and, after her marriage, contributed a series of letters to a New York City daily newspaper from Great Britain and the European continent. She also wrote many unsigned articles, including editorials, art and book criticisms, as well as essays. Poole was an advocate for women's rights and a member of several prominent clubs, including Sorosis and the New York Woman's Press Club.

Early life and education

Hester Martha Hunt was born in Georgia, Vermont, May 27, 1834, or 1833. She was the eighth child of Harry and Mary Staples Hunt, who were emigres from Connecticut to Vermont. The Hunts traced back their ancestry two hundred years, and were of Irish, Scotch and English descent. Harry Hunt, her father, was a soldier in the War of 1812 and 1814, and was a participant in the Battle of Plattsburgh. She was graduated from Castleton Seminary (now Castleton University), at an early age, afterward continuing her studies at Burlington, Vermont. At an early age, she wrote poems and stories, which were often published.

Career

Prostrated from overwork, she went south for her health and engaged in teaching for several years in the states of Mississippi and Tennessee.

After marrying C. O. Poole of New York City on January 14, 1865, Poole became occupied with domestic life. In 1868, the Pooles went abroad, where they traveled, during several months, in Great Britain and on the European continent. During these travels, Poole contributed a series of letters to a daily paper of New York from Edinburgh, London, Paris, Rome, Naples, and Geneva.