Historian; born in
Medfield, Mass., in 1755.
By an early fondness for study, which was promoted by her father, a man of literary tastes, she obtained a knowledge of Latin and
Greek from some divinity students broading at her father's house before she had arrived at full womanhood.
Her father, a shopkeeper, failed in business when she was seventeen years of age, and his children were compelled to help themselves.
During the war for independence she supported herself by teaching and lace-making.
Miss Adams wrote a
History of the Jews, in which she was assisted by the
Abbe Gregoire, with whom she corresponded.
She also wrote a
History of New England, published in 1799.
She also wrote hooks on religious subjects; and, in 1814, published a
Controversy with Dr. Morse (
Rev. Jedidiah). Her autobiography, continued by
Mrs. G. G. Lee, was published in 1832.
Miss Adams was small in stature, very deaf in her old age, fond of strong tea, and an inveterate snuff-taker.
She derived very little pecuniary gains from her writings; but her friends established a comfortable annuity for her. She was one of the pioneer literary women of the
United States, possessing rare modesty and great purity of character.
She died in
Brookline, Mass., Nov. 15, 1831.
Her remains were the first interred in Mount Auburn Cemetery.
