Fletcher S. Bassett
American naval officer and folklore author who founded the Chicago Folk-Lore Society.
via Wikipedia: Fletcher S. Bassett · see source
Fletcher Stewart Bassett (1847–1893) served as a U.S. naval officer and writer. He played a key role in creating the 1893 international Folk-Lore Congress for the World’s Columbian Exposition and started the Chicago Folk-Lore Society. Born in Adams County, Kentucky, on December 21, 1847, he began writing while a student at Monmouth College. His first book, Legends and Superstitions of the Sea (1885), sparked a lasting focus on folklore. In 1892 he released The Folk-Lore Manual, compiling material he had gathered from various contributors.
Quick Facts
- Born
- December 21, 1847
- Birthplace
- Kentucky, United States
- Died
- 1893
- Education
- Monmouth College (Illinois)
- Occupation
- Author; United States Navy Lieutenant
Facts from the source article.
Background
Bassett volunteered for military service during the American Civil War, first serving with the 188th regiment before enlisting in the United States Navy. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 1875, and was listed as retired in 1882. While enlisted he developed as a professional writer, submitting articles to newspapers and journals, and contributing to Hammersly's Naval Encyclopedia. His Navy experience gave him proficiency in many modern languages and experience with foreign peoples, assets which supported his appointments as the Chief Interpreter and Translator of the World's Columbian Exposition of 1893 and chairman of the Folklore Congress of the same year.
Did You Know?
- His first book, Legends and Superstitions of the Sea, was published in 1885 in both Chicago and London.
- The Chicago Folk-Lore Society, founded in 1891, took a literary approach to folklore, unlike societies that treated it as a science.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where was Fletcher S. Bassett born?
Fletcher S. Bassett was born on December 21, 1847 in Kentucky, United States.
Where did Fletcher S. Bassett study?
Fletcher S. Bassett studied at Monmouth College (Illinois).
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