Ellen Creathorne Clayton facts for kids

Ellen Creathorne Clayton was a talented author and artist. She was born on February 15, 1834, in Dublin, Ireland. Later in her life, she married James Henry Needham and was sometimes known as Mrs. Needham. Ellen Clayton passed away in London on July 19, 1900, at the age of 66.

About Ellen Clayton's Life

Ellen Creathorne Clayton was born as Eleanor Creathorne Clayton. Her family moved from Dublin to London in 1841 when she was seven years old. Her father, Benjamin Clayton III, was a wood engraver. This means he created pictures by carving them into wood. Her grandfather and great-grandfather were also wood engravers. Her aunt, Caroline Millard, also worked as a wood engraver in Dublin.

Her Early Career

Ellen started writing and drawing at a very young age. By the time she was fourteen, she was already contributing articles and illustrations to different newspapers. She worked for papers like Sala's paper. She also contributed to Chat and Punchinello, which were two publications owned by her father.

Her Famous Works

Ellen Clayton is best known for her special dictionary. It was a dictionary about English women painters. This book helped people learn about many talented female artists. Besides this, she also wrote several novels and history books. She was a very busy artist and writer! Ellen Clayton also designed cards and calendars.

Later Life and Marriage

In February 1879, Ellen Clayton married a lawyer named James Henry Needham. Even after she got married, she continued to publish her books and articles using her maiden name, Ellen Clayton. She passed away in a nursing home in London in 1900.