Elizabeth Robins Pennell

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Elizabeth Robins Pennell cph.3b02785

Mary Wollstonecraft - Elizabeth Robins Pennell - Cover

Thomas Humber and C H Lambert on a Tandem 1885

Elizabeth Robins Pennell (February 21, 1855 – February 7, 1936) was an American writer, critic, and cyclist, known for her adventurous life and her contributions to literature and culinary writing. Born in Philadelphia, she moved to London in the late 19th century, where she became an influential figure in literary and artistic circles.

Early Life

Elizabeth was born into a Quaker family in Philadelphia. Her early education was marked by a keen interest in literature and art, which would influence her diverse career. Despite the constraints placed on women during her time, Elizabeth pursued her interests with vigor, eventually moving to Europe to further her education and career.

Career

Elizabeth Robins Pennell's career was multifaceted, encompassing writing, criticism, and a pioneering role in the world of cycling. She authored several books and articles on a wide range of topics, from biographies to travel and culinary arts.

Literary Contributions

Pennell made significant contributions to literature, both as a writer and a critic. She was a regular contributor to various magazines and newspapers, where she wrote about art, literature, and society. Her literary works often reflected her adventurous spirit and her experiences living abroad.

Cycling Advocacy

An avid cyclist, Pennell was among the first to write about the joys and challenges of cycling. Alongside her husband, Joseph Pennell, she embarked on numerous cycling tours across Europe, documenting their travels in books such as "A Canterbury Pilgrimage" and "Our Sentimental Journey through France and Italy." Her writings helped popularize cycling as a leisure activity and mode of travel during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Culinary Writing

Elizabeth Robins Pennell also made a significant contribution to culinary writing. Her book "The Delights of Delicate Eating" is considered a classic in the genre, celebrating the art of fine dining and the pleasures of food. Her culinary essays are noted for their wit, insight, and appreciation of gastronomy.

Personal Life

Elizabeth married Joseph Pennell, an artist and illustrator, in 1884. The couple shared a passion for travel, art, and literature, which deeply influenced their work. They lived in London, where they became prominent figures in the city's artistic and literary circles, counting among their friends notable figures such as George Bernard Shaw and James McNeill Whistler.

Legacy

Elizabeth Robins Pennell's legacy is that of a trailblazer who defied the conventions of her time to lead a life of adventure and intellectual pursuit. Her contributions to literature, cycling, and culinary writing continue to be celebrated for their pioneering spirit and enduring charm.