Thane, Elswyth (1900–1984)

views updated

Thane, Elswyth (1900–1984)

American novelist and playwright. Name variations: Elswyth Beebe; Mrs. William Beebe; Elswyth Thane Ricker. Born Helen Ricker, May 16, 1900, in Burlington, IA; m. Dr. William Beebe (naturalist and explorer), 1927.

Began career as a freelance writer (1925); wrote such plays as The Tudor Wench (1933) and Young Mr. Disraeli (1934); novels include Riders of the Wind, Echo Answers, His Elizabeth, Cloth of Gold, Bound to Happen and Tryst; also wrote biographies of George and Martha Washington.