The Iowa journalist who, as “Carolyn Keene,” wrote the first Nancy Drew mysteries.
Mildred Augustine Wirt Benson was born in 1905 in Ladora, Iowa, and became the first person to earn a master's degree in journalism from the University of Iowa.
Under the pen name “Carolyn Keene,” she wrote most of the earliest and best-loved Nancy Drew mystery novels, creating one of the most influential heroines in children's literature, while pursuing a long newspaper career.
Benson's plucky, independent Nancy Drew inspired countless girls and remains a cultural touchstone. Her Iowa roots and University of Iowa training launched a remarkable writing life.
She kept writing newspaper columns nearly to the end of her long life.
The Iowa journalist who, as “Carolyn Keene,” wrote the first Nancy Drew mysteries.
Mildred Wirt Benson was from Ladora, Iowa.
1905–2002.
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