Caroline Woolmer Leakey
Caroline Woolmer Leakey was an English author born in Exeter in 1827, known for her contributions to literature and philanthropy. Growing up in a deeply religious household, she faced significant health challenges throughout her childhood, which limited her formal education but fostered a love of reading. In 1847, Leakey emigrated to Australia, where she battled illness for several years before returning to England in 1853. She published her first collection of poems, *Lyra Australis*, in 1854, which reflected her religious beliefs and personal struggles with health.
Leakey's literary work gained further recognition with her novel *The Broad Arrow* in 1859, notable for featuring a female protagonist who navigates the world of convicted criminals, marking a significant contribution to the genre. After personal losses, including the deaths of her sister and mother, she took on familial responsibilities while continuing her writing. Leakey was also active in social causes, particularly assisting women in need, and she remained dedicated to her philanthropic efforts until her death in 1881. Her life and work illustrate the intersections of literature, health, and social advocacy in the 19th century.
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Caroline Woolmer Leakey
- Born: March 8, 1827
- Birthplace: Exeter, England
- Died: July 12, 1881
Biography
Caroline Woolmer Leakey was born in Exeter, England, in 1827. Leakey grew up in a very religious home, and was plagued by illness as a child. She did not have much formal education, but she read a lot as a child. She spent much of her younger years either working on philanthropic ventures or confined to bed due to illness.
In 1847, Leakey left England and traveled to Australia. Unfortunately, she became sick again shortly after her stay, and was stuck in bed until 1850. She battled illness for many years during her stay in Australia, and eventually, in 1853, she returned home to England.
After returning to England, Leakey published Lyra Australis, a collection of poems. They contained many religious themes as well as touched on her many bouts with illness. A year later, in 1854, her sister died. Leakey took over her sister’s school for awhile. Her mother passed away in 1855, and Leakey returned home to care after her father until his death five years later.
In 1859, Leakey published her next book, titled The Broad Arrow: Being Passages from the History of Maida Gwynham, a Lifer. It was one of the first novels about convicted criminals in which the protagonist was a woman. After the publishing of The Broad Arrow, Leakey continued to live in her birthplace where she wrote and published short stories and poems. She was also known to assist “fallen women.” Leakey continued this work until her death in 1881.