NE North Dakota News

Vera Kelsey, a notable graduate of the University of North Dakota (UND), made significant contributions to literature and journalism during her lifetime. As we celebrate Women's History Month, her achievements warrant recognition. A 1914 graduate, Kelsey's career was marked by her diverse talents and global experiences.

Kelsey, born in Winnipeg and raised in Grand Forks, developed artistic abilities early on, gaining recognition for her sewing and embroidery skills at the North Dakota State Fair in 1908. During her time at UND, she furthered her interest in the arts by participating in various creative endeavors. "The Dakotah," a yearbook for which she served as editor, showcased her emerging literary talent.

After attending Brown University post-graduation, Kelsey returned to North Dakota for a period of teaching and further studies. Her teaching post at the University of Washington in 1917 was a precursor to her transformative journey to China in 1920. In China, her work as a feature writer for the "North China Daily News" from 1920 to 1925 brought her acclaim both in China and in the West.

She authored the first industrial survey of central China, "Industry in China," documenting the changing landscape and laborers' conditions. "It seems very good to be home, but China won my heart completely," she wrote in a 1922 letter to her friend.

Kelsey's travels also took her to South America, resulting in acclaimed travel books like "Seven Keys to Brazil." Brazilian scholar Angyone Costa noted her attention to detail and cultural sensitivity. Her writing also included children's literature, collaborating with Brazilian painter Candido Portinari.

Back in the United States, Kelsey continued to explore diverse themes in her writing. Her work "Red River Runs North!" is often seen as her most significant accomplishment, praised for its comprehensive exploration of the Red River Valley.

Despite her success, Kelsey admitted to struggling with writer's block, as expressed in her letters. However, her approach to life and writing inspired many, particularly women writers seeking to assert themselves in the field.

Journalist Helen McGrath reflected on Kelsey's career, suggesting that her openness and willingness to explore new experiences were keys to her success. "If ambitious young writers studied Miss Kelsey’s fabulous career...they might find it lies in following one’s impulses," McGrath wrote.

Kelsey's insight into writing highlighted the importance of personal experiences and understanding of people: "It is your ideas, your depth of perception and experience that the publisher looks for above all."