Author, Literary Critic, and Intellectual Voice of the Gilded Age

Jeannette Leonard Gilder was a trailblazing journalist, editor, and literary critic whose influence extended well beyond her published work. Born in Flushing, New York, on October 3, 1849, she emerged as one of the foremost women writers and editors of the late 19th century. As a founding editor of The Critic—a literary magazine she launched with her brother Joseph Benson Gilder—Jeannette helped shape the intellectual discourse of her era, championing both established authors and emerging voices.

A vital member of the illustrious Gilder family, Jeannette was the sister of Richard Watson Gilder, poet and editor of The Century Magazine, and John Francis Gilder, a respected composer. Her deep personal and professional connection to Richard and his wife, Helena de Kay Gilder—the artist and reformer—placed her squarely within the heart of the Four Brooks Circle, the extended family and cultural community centered around their Berkshire retreat, Four Brooks Farm.

Although Jeannette never married, she took on the roles of intellectual aunt and literary confidante to the next generation, including Rosamond Gilder and Rodman de Kay Gilder, and remained close to Helena, whom she counted as a sister-in-law and artistic peer.

Her life and work reflect the broader Gilder commitment to art, literature, and progressive reform. At a time when women’s voices were too often marginalized, Jeannette carved out a space of her own and became one of the most respected literary authorities of her generation.

She died in New York City on January 17, 1916, and is buried in Bordentown Cemetery, near other members of her extraordinary family.