E. Boyd Smith

E. Boyd Smith was an American author, illustrator, and engineer, born on January 2, 1854, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was the son of a prominent lawyer and was educated at the University of Pennsylvania, where he studied engineering. After graduation, Smith worked as a civil engineer for several years before turning to art and illustration. He began his career as a freelance artist, contributing illustrations to magazines such as Harper's Weekly and Scribner's Magazine. In 1899, Smith published his first book, The Story of Noah's Ark, which was a retelling of the biblical story of Noah and the flood. The book was a huge success and established Smith as a popular children's author and illustrator. Over the next several years, Smith wrote and illustrated a number of other children's books, including The Story of Pocahontas, The Story of Columbus, and The Story of the Pilgrims. His books were known for their detailed illustrations and engaging storytelling, and they were widely read and enjoyed by children