Profile of the Day: Nathaniel Hawthorne

Nathaniel Hawthorne

Do you remember reading The Scarlet Letter? On this day in 1804, author Nathaniel Hawthorne was born in Salem, Massachusetts.

Hawthorne’s third great grandfather, William Hathorne, was the author’s first American ancestor. He was a prominent member of the Massachusetts Bay Colony and even held the positions of magistrate and judge. Hawthorne’s second great grandfather, John Hathorne, was one of the leading judges during the Salem witch trials. He was the only judge involved to never repent his actions after the trials had ended. Ashamed of his family’s past, Hawthorn would later add a “w” to his name to distinguish himself from his notorious ancestors.

Throughout his career, Hawthorne wrote several short stories and novels. His most famous works are likely The House of Seven Gables and The Scarlet Letter.

How are you related to Nathaniel Hawthorne? Explore his family tree and share your connection to the legendary author.
 

View Nathaniel Hawthorne’s Geni Profile

Image: Library of Congress