Darrel Irving

Born in 1859, Irving Bacheller began his career in journalism, working for various newspapers before establishing the first modern newspaper syndicate in the United States. This venture was instrumental in bringing the works of prominent British authors like Joseph Conrad and Arthur Conan Doyle to American audiences. He also fostered a relationship with Stephen Crane, syndicating his work and later hiring him as a war correspondent.

Transitioning to fiction writing, Bacheller published several novels, many of which focused on early American life in New York's North Country. His 1900 novel, "Eben Holden, A Tale of the North Country," achieved significant commercial success, becoming one of the best-selling books of the year. Several of his later novels also ranked highly in annual sales.

Beyond his writing and journalistic endeavors, Bacheller was involved in civic activities. He served as a war correspondent during World War I and played a significant role in the development of Rollins College, serving on its board and helping to secure its transformation into a more substantial institution. He passed away in 1950.

Irving Bacheller's career began in journalism following his graduation from St. Lawrence University. He worked for publications like the Daily Hotel Reporter and the Brooklyn Daily Times. In 1885, he pioneered the concept of a modern newspaper syndicate in the United States. Through his Bacheller Syndicate, he facilitated the distribution of articles and literary works to major Sunday newspapers across the country. This initiative introduced American readers to international talents such as Joseph Conrad, Arthur Conan Doyle, and Rudyard Kipling. He also formed a crucial partnership with author Stephen Crane, whose novel "The Red Badge of Courage" gained widespread recognition through syndication. Bacheller's syndicate played a vital role in shaping the landscape of American journalism and literary dissemination.

Shifting his focus to fiction, Irving Bacheller authored several novels, beginning with "The Master of Silence" in 1892 and "Still House of O'Darrow" in 1894. Although he briefly held the position of Sunday editor for the New York World, he ultimately dedicated himself to a full-time writing career. His novels often explored themes related to early American life, particularly in the North Country of New York State. The novel "Eben Holden, A Tale of the North Country," published in 1900, achieved remarkable commercial success, ranking as the fourth best-selling book in the United States that year. His subsequent works, including "D'ri and I" (1901) and "The Light in the Clearing" (1917), also garnered significant readership and sales, with "The Light in the Clearing" becoming the second best-selling book in America sixteen years after its release.

Irving Bacheller's contributions extended beyond his literary and journalistic work. He served as a war correspondent in France during World War I, documenting events of the conflict. In his later years, he demonstrated a strong commitment to education and cultural institutions. He was a member of the board of trustees for both St. Lawrence University and Rollins College. He established a winter residence in Winter Park, Florida, and was instrumental in the development of Rollins College, particularly in the selection of its president, Hamilton Holt. His influence helped transform Rollins from a small institution into a thriving university with a substantial endowment. In recognition of his contributions, St. Lawrence University named its chapel bells "The Bacheller Memorial Chimes," and its English department's honorary society and a dining hall also bear his name or the title of his notable novel, "Eben Holden."