The Biographical Dictionary of America/Abbott, John Stephens Cabot

ABBOTT, John Stephens Cabot, author, was born at Brunswick, Me., Sept. 18, 1805, son of Jacob and brother of Jacob Abbott. He was graduated from Bowdoin college and from Andover theological seminary, and in 1830 was ordained a Congregational minister. As such he began his work at Worcester, after which he served in Roxbury and Nantucket, and in Fairhaven, Conn., preaching till near the time of his death. He attained eminence as an author, his first essay in that direction being the publication of a series of papers entitled "Mother at Home." Contrary to the expectations of his publishers, who were with difficulty induced to undertake the convoy of the book through the press, the work had an enormous circulation, both in this country and in England; it was translated into several European languages, and ultimately found its way to Africa and India, being printed in the native tongues, and ran into several editions. The unmistakable success of this first venture practically determined Mr. Abbott's career. His field was chiefly that of history, and prominent among his works of this class may be noted his "Life of Napoleon." He was the author of a volume on "Practical Christianity," and wrote voluminously for the best periodicals of the day, notably for the "Christian Union." The amount of work accomplished daily by Mr. Abbott was marvellous, and was wholly due to his habit of methodically planning his day's work. He rose very early in the morning, and breakfast only interrupted his writing until noon. His parish calls were made in the afternoon, and were about the only diversion he allowed himself. In the evening he either read or spent a social hour with his family. It was only by strictly adhering to this plan that he could accomplish what he did— preaching twice on Sunday, lecturing at least once a week, writing many magazine articles, and not less than two books a year. He was a wise reader, selecting the most helpful books and portions of books, and retaining the essential parts. His mind was extremely clear and active, and he could leave the subject in hand for something entirely different, and then resume his former work without the slightest inconvenience. He was fortunate in having an efficient amanuensis in his wife, who took from him nearly all the dull drudgery of the work. She assumed charge of his correspondence, looked up his authorities, and corrected his proofs. Mr. Abbott was blessed with a singularly even temperament. By his personal goodness, as well as by his books, he had a great influence on the world. He continued active in work nearly to the time of his death, to which he looked forward with joy rather than resignation. He died at Fair Haven, Conn., June 17, 1877.