Charlotte Perkins Gilman (1860–1935) was an American feminist, writer and lecturer. She grew up in poverty in
New England. After the break-up of her marriage in 1888, she moved to
Pasadena, California, where she became involved with feminist organizations and began writing poetry and short stories on feminism. This included "
The Yellow Wallpaper", which was published in
The New England Magazine in 1892 and is the all-time bestselling title published by the
Feminist Press. Inspired by Gilman's own experience, it describes a woman who descends into madness while trapped in a room by her husband. She went on to become a lecturer, touring locations across the United States.
Photograph: C.F. Lummis
Restoration: Adam Cuerden