Harold W. Felton
Harold W. Felton was a prominent twentieth-century author renowned for his contributions to American folklore literature. Born in 1902 in Neola, Iowa, he pursued his education first at Creighton University and then at the University of Nebraska, where he earned both a Bachelor’s degree and a law degree. Felton initially practiced law in Omaha and later joined the Internal Revenue Service, where he worked for 37 years, culminating in his retirement in 1970. His literary career flourished alongside his government service, with a particular focus on folklore, most notably the legendary figure of Paul Bunyan, which he explored in his 1948 book, *Legends of Paul Bunyan*. Felton also researched and wrote about other folklore characters, such as Pecos Bill and John Henry. In addition to his folklore works, he authored biographies aimed at young adults, highlighting figures like James Weldon Johnson and James Beckwourth. Felton's legacy is marked by his dedication to preserving and promoting American folklore until his death in 1991.
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Subject Terms
Harold W. Felton
Fiction Writer
- Born: April 1, 1902
- Birthplace: Neola, Iowa
- Died: July 12, 1991
Biography
Harold W. Felton, a twentieth century author best known for his books about American folklore, was born in 1902 in Neola, Iowa. In 1919, he graduated from Neola High School and began studying at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. After one year at Creighton, he transferred to the University of Nebraska, where he earned a B.A. degree in 1925. He continued his studies at the University of Nebraska, earning his law degree in 1928. Felton supported himself during his college years by working as a stage manager, a farm hand, and a mule skinner.
After receiving his law degree, Felton practiced law in Omaha for five years. In 1933, he went to work for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). At this time, he met and married Hildegard Kessler and moved to New York City. Here, Felton worked in the chief council office of the IRS. He retired from the IRS in 1970 after thirty-seven years of service.
At the same time, Felton wrote books, specializing in works about American folklore. As a child, he developed an interest in Paul Bunyan, the legendary lumberjack. Over the years, Felton collected stories and books about Bunyan and eventually wrote a book about him, Legends of Paul Bunyan, which was published in 1948. Felton also was noted for his research and writing on other folklore figures such as Pecos Bill, Bowleg Bill, and John Henry. In addition to his folklore books, Felton wrote biographies for young adults, including books about African Americans James Weldon Johnson, Edward Rose, and James Beckwourth. Felton died in 1991.