Samuel Woodworth

About

An American author, literary journalist, opera librettist, playwright, and poet, he is particularly known for his poem, "The Old Oaken Bucket," which was set to music by George F. Kiallmark. His other poetic works include The Hunters of Kentucky, The Heroes of the Lake, and An Excursion of the Dog-Cart.

Before Fame

Early in his career, he worked as an apprentice to Benjamin Russell, the editor of the Columbian Sentinel.

Trivia

The USS Woodworth naval ship was named in his honor.

Family Life

He married Lydia Reeder in 1810; they subsequently had ten children.

Associated With

He and Armstrong Sperry both lived in New Haven, Connecticut.