Fred J. Broomfield facts for kids

Frederick John Broomfield (born April 2, 1860 – died May 22, 1941) was an Australian writer. He was born in England. He became a good friend of the famous Australian writer Henry Lawson.

Broomfield was also an important member of a group called the Dawn and Dusk Club. This club was a gathering of poets and writers who met around the poet Victor Daley. Some of their meetings even took place in Broomfield's home in Darlinghurst, Sydney.

Before he moved to Sydney in the 1880s, Frederick Broomfield worked in Victoria. He wrote for the Kyneton Guardian newspaper. He was also a correspondent for The Age newspaper in Melbourne. When he arrived in Sydney, he found work as an accountant.

A Writer's Life

Frederick Broomfield was known for his lively and artistic personality. He wrote for The Bulletin, a very popular Australian magazine. At one point, he even worked there as a sub-editor. A sub-editor helps prepare articles for publication.

Helping New Writers

It is often said that Frederick Broomfield was the person who accepted Henry Lawson's very first story for The Bulletin. This was a big moment for Lawson's career. Broomfield also stood up for Lawson later in his life. He defended Lawson in a book he wrote in 1930 called Henry Lawson and his Critics. This shows how much he supported his friend.

Remembering Frederick Broomfield

Frederick John Broomfield played an important role in the Australian writing scene. He helped shape the careers of other writers. His friendships and contributions to magazines like The Bulletin left a lasting mark. He passed away in 1941 at the age of 81.