Kate Wiggin

Kate Douglas Wiggin was an influential American author and educator, born in Philadelphia in 1856. She is best known for her contributions to children's literature and her pioneering work in early childhood education. Wiggin was educated at home until she attended a private school in Andover, Massachusetts. Her career began in the realm of education, where she founded the first free kindergarten in San Francisco in 1878. This initiative was part of her broader commitment to educational reform. Wiggin's literary career took off with the publication of 'The Story of Patsy' in 1883, and she gained widespread acclaim for her novel 'Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm' in 1903. Her works often depicted idyllic rural life and the innocence of childhood, resonating with audiences both in the United States and abroad. While 'The Unicorn' is mentioned as a fairytale, it is not among her most recognized works. Her legacy endures not only through her writings but also through her contributions to educational theory and practice.