| American cartoonist, humorist and journalist Date of Birth: 01.09.1868 Country: USA |
Frank McKinney Hubbard, better known as Kin Hubbard, was an American cartoonist, humorist, and journalist. He was born on September 1, 1868, in Bellefontaine, Ohio, and was the youngest of five siblings. Kin received his name in honor of a politician from Ohio, a friend of his father. He grew up in a unique family, described by neighbors as both the best and the strangest people on Earth. Kin's father, Thomas Hubbard, was a fierce editor of a democratic newspaper and often faced difficulties due to his political beliefs.
Despite dropping out of school in the seventh grade, Kin developed a love for the circus and performing arts from a young age. He worked as a clerk at the post office while simultaneously performing in shadow theater. Kin even attended the Jefferson School of Art in Detroit but quickly grew bored. In 1891, he was hired as an editor at the "Indianapolis News" and gained recognition for his caricatures of prominent politicians.
On December 17, 1904, Kin first appeared on stage as his character Abe Martin, a smiling and mustached gentleman known for his humorous remarks about members of the legislative body. In 1905, his book "Abe and his humorous remarks" was published, attracting a new audience. This marked a turning point in Kin's career as a humorist.
In 1910, Kin's character Abe Martin gained national recognition when it appeared in "American magazine." He then signed a deal with the George Matthew Adams Syndicate, which provided performances for his alter ego in approximately 200 cities.
Despite his popularity and success, Kin often felt uneasy about his fame. He preferred to be called a writer rather than an artist or a genius. Unfortunately, Kin Hubbard passed away on December 26, 1930, from a heart attack. He was called the "humorist of humorists" after his death, but as Abe Martin once said, "Flattery ain't worth nothin' if you fall for it."
Kin Hubbard's witty and beloved character, Abe Martin, continued to entertain readers from 1904 until his creator's death in 1930.