Henry Martyn Field (minister)

Henry Martyn Field (1822-1907) was an American clergyman, author, and editor. Born in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, he was a member of the prominent Field family, which included his brothers David Dudley Field II (a lawyer), Stephen Johnson Field (a U.S. Supreme Court Justice), and Cyrus West Field (who spearheaded the transatlantic telegraph cable).

Field graduated from Williams College in 1841 and from East Windsor (now Hartford) Theological Seminary in 1844. He served as pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in St. Louis, Missouri, from 1847 to 1854.

In 1854, he became the editor and proprietor of The Evangelist, a Presbyterian weekly newspaper published in New York City. He held this position for over forty years, making The Evangelist a leading religious publication of the time. Under his leadership, the paper advocated for various social and political causes, including abolitionism.

Field was a prolific author, best known for his travel books. His journeys took him to Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and around the world. He documented his experiences in works such as From the Lakes of Killarney to the Golden Horn (1876), From Egypt to Japan (1877), On the Desert (1883), Among the Holy Hills (1884), Old Spain and New Spain (1888), Bright Skies and Dark Shadows (1890), and Our Western Archipelago (1895). These books were popular for their engaging style and insightful observations.

He also wrote biographical works, including The Life of David Dudley Field (1898), a biography of his brother.

Henry Martyn Field was a significant figure in American religious life during the 19th century, known for his editorial work, travel writing, and social advocacy.