
Ida Louisa Lee was an influential historian and poet from New South Wales, recognized for her contributions to Australian historical scholarship. Born into a family of grazers and politicians, she developed a passion for history early in life, which led her to write several significant historical texts that often included previously unpublished materials. Her commitment to the field was acknowledged when she became a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society in 1914 and an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Australian Historical Society, reflecting her esteemed position among her contemporaries. In addition to her historical works, Lee's poetry also garnered attention, showcasing her literary talent alongside her scholarly pursuits. Her marriage to Charles John Bruce Marriott in 1891 marked a personal milestone, but it was her professional achievements that left a lasting legacy. Lee's dedication to documenting Australia's past and her ability to weave narrative and analysis into her work have made her a notable figure in the realm of Australian history and literature, influencing future generations of historians and writers alike.
“I would almost forget about Ida Durbin. But a sin of omission, if indeed that's what it was, can be like the rusty head of a hatchet buried in the heartwood of a tree -- it eventually finds the teeth of a whirling saw blade.””
“Lee Walker, colored man, accused of raping white women, in jail here, will be taken out and burned by whites tonight. Can you send Miss Ida Wells to write it up?””