Early Life and Education
Frances Sargent Locke Osgood was born on June 18, 1811, in Boston, Massachusetts. She was the daughter of Joseph Locke, a wealthy merchant, and Mary Ingersoll Foster Locke. Frances showed an early aptitude for writing and poetry, and her parents encouraged her to pursue her passion for literature. She received a formal education at the Otis School in Boston, where she excelled in her studies.
Rise to Prominence
Frances Sargent Osgood’s talent for poetry soon caught the attention of the literary community in Boston. In 1834, she published her first collection of poems, “A Wreath of Wild Flowers from New England.” The collection was well-received by critics and readers alike, establishing Frances as a rising star in the world of poetry.
Moving to New York
In 1835, Frances Sargent Osgood moved to New York City to further her literary career. She quickly became a prominent figure in the city’s literary circles, rubbing shoulders with some of the most influential writers and poets of the time. Her charm and wit made her a popular figure in society, and she was often referred to as the “Queen of Bohemia.”
Marriage and Family
In 1835, Frances Sargent Osgood married Samuel Stillman Osgood, a prominent Unitarian minister. The couple had three children together, but their marriage was not without its difficulties. Samuel’s work often took him away from home, leaving Frances to care for their children alone. Despite these challenges, Frances continued to write and publish poetry throughout her marriage.
Friendship with Edgar Allan Poe
One of Frances Sargent Osgood’s most famous friendships was with the renowned writer Edgar Allan Poe. The two poets met in 1845 and quickly formed a close bond based on their shared love of literature. Their correspondence is filled with passionate declarations of friendship and admiration for each other’s work.
Legacy
Frances Sargent Osgood’s poetry is known for its lyrical beauty and emotional depth. Her work often explores themes of love, nature, and the human experience. Despite facing personal challenges throughout her life, Frances continued to write with grace and elegance until her death on May 12, 1850, in New York City.
Mount Auburn Cemetery
Frances Sargent Osgood was laid to rest in Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Her grave is marked by a simple headstone inscribed with her name and dates of birth and death. Visitors to the cemetery can pay their respects to this talented poet whose words continue to inspire readers today.
