orig. Sarah Josepha Buell
born Oct. 24, 1788, Newport, N.H., U.S.
died April 30, 1879, Philadelphia, Pa.
U.S. writer and editor.
Hale turned to writing in 1822 as a widow trying to support her family. She edited the Ladies' Magazine (1828–37) and then Godey's Lady's Book (1837–77); as the first female magazine editor, she shaped many of the attitudes and ideas of women of the period. Her books include The Ladies' Wreath (1837), a collection of poetry by women that sold widely; and Woman's Record (1853). She is also remembered for her verse "Mary Had a Little Lamb" (1830).