Melville Davisson Post

Melville Davisson Post: Master of Mysteries

Melville Davisson Post (1869-1930) was an American author who carved a niche for himself in the world of detective fiction. Here's a look at his life and literary contributions:

Early Life and Education:

• Born in Harrison County, West Virginia in 1869, Post likely had a comfortable upbringing on his family's farm.
• He received a law degree from West Virginia University in 1892, even being elected the youngest member of the Electoral College that same year.

Legal Career and Literary Beginnings:

• While details of his legal practice are scarce, Post likely practiced law for a few years before turning his attention to writing.
• His early literary efforts focused on short stories, and he published his first collection, "The Drone and Other Stories," in 1906.

Uncle Abner and Detective Fiction:

• Post's most notable contribution to detective fiction came with the creation of Uncle Abner, a sagacious backwoodsman from West Virginia with an uncanny ability to solve mysteries.
• The first Uncle Abner story, "The Strange Schemes of Randolph Mason," was published in 1911.
• Over the next two decades, Post penned 22 Uncle Abner stories, captivating readers with their unique blend of rural setting, keen observation, and clever solutions.
• Uncle Abner, with his folksy wisdom and sharp mind, became a forerunner of the regional detective archetype in American fiction.

Beyond Uncle Abner:

• While Uncle Abner remains his most recognizable creation, Post also wrote other detective stories featuring different characters.
• He explored themes of justice, human psychology, and the power of observation within his narratives.

Legacy:

• Although not as widely known today compared to some of his contemporaries, Post's work holds a significant place in the history of detective fiction.
• His Uncle Abner stories are praised for their originality, vivid characters, and portrayal of a distinctive American setting.

Here are some resources you can explore to learn more about Melville Davisson Post:

• "The American Sherlock Holmes: Melville Davisson Post and the Uncle Abner Stories" by William F. Nolan: This book delves deeper into Post's life, the Uncle Abner stories, and their place in detective fiction.
• Online resources: While dedicated websites solely focused on Post might be limited, searching online databases or library catalogs for his works or critical analyses could yield valuable information.

Additional Points to Consider:

• Limited Availability: Finding physical copies of Post's works might require searching through used book stores or online retailers specializing in rare or out-of-print books.
• Shifting Landscape: Detective fiction has evolved considerably since Post's time. While his stories are appreciated for their historical context, the portrayal of characters, plots, and social issues might differ from contemporary detective fiction.
• Enduring Appeal: Despite the passage of time, Uncle Abner's wit, resourcefulness, and the unique setting of his stories continue to hold a certain charm for readers who enjoy classic detective fiction.

I hope this information provides a good starting point for your exploration of Melville Davisson Post and his work!