Marion Ames Taggart

Marion Ames Taggart (1866-1945) was an American writer known for her verses, stories, and Catholic literature, primarily aimed at children. Born in Haverhill, Massachusetts, she descended from English Puritans on her mother's side and Scottish MacTaggarts on her father's side. Her great-grandfather, Captain Benjamin Ames, fought in the Battle of Bunker Hill. Taggart’s father was Catholic, and her mother converted to Catholicism. Due to poor health, she could not attend school and was educated by her mother, except for languages and music.

At age 10, Taggart explored various religious sects, seeking truth. In her teens, she studied Catholic teachings and was baptized in Boston. She began writing verses and stories at 13 and contributed regularly to *The Young Catholic* before turning 20. Her work appeared in both secular and Catholic publications, with most targeting children.

Taggart lived with her mother in Plainfield, New Jersey, and later resided in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where she died in January 1945. She authored numerous books, including *The Blissylvania Post-Office* (1897), *Winnetou, The Apache Knight* (1898), and *A Pilgrim Maid: A Story of Plymouth Colony in 1620* (1920). Her works often focused on themes suitable for young readers and reflected her Catholic faith.