Manly Wade Wellman, born on May 21, 1903 in Angola, spent his early years in a small village in Portuguese West Africa where his father worked as a doctor. It was during this time that his interest in storytelling first emerged, as he would listen intently to the tales told by the local villagers around the campfire. This exposure to the rich oral tradition of African folklore would later influence his own writing style.
Wellman's thirst for knowledge led him to pursue higher education in the United States. He graduated from Wichita State University and later went on to study law at Columbia Law School. However, his true passion lay in writing, and he soon found himself drawn to a career in journalism.
After completing his education, Wellman began his career as a writer by working as a movie reviewer and reporter. His keen eye for detail and his ability to craft engaging narratives quickly caught the attention of editors, and he soon found himself contributing to various publications.
Wellman's breakthrough came when he began writing for the legendary Weird Tales pulp magazine. It was here that he created some of his most iconic characters, including Silver John, Judge Pursuivant, and John Thunstone. His tales of fantasy and horror, often set in the haunting backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains, captivated readers and cemented his reputation as a master storyteller.
Upon moving to the United States, Wellman married Frances Obrist, who would become his lifelong partner and collaborator. Together, they explored the supernatural and the mysterious in their writings, delving into the realms of the unknown with a sense of wonder and curiosity.
Manly Wade Wellman's legacy lives on through his timeless stories, which continue to enthrall readers and inspire a new generation of writers. His unique blend of folklore, horror, and fantasy has left an indelible mark on the literary world, ensuring that his name will be remembered for years to come.