Elsie Spicer Eells (1880–1963) was an American researcher of folklore and a writer who dedicated her career to documenting the oral traditions of the Atlantic basin. Active during the early decades of the twentieth century, Eells traveled extensively to gather regional myths, legends, and traditional tales, particularly focusing on cultures with Iberian roots. Her travel and research allowed her to preserve stories that had been passed down through generations primarily by word of mouth.
Eells is recognized for publishing several collections of short stories and legends based on the oral narratives of the diverse regions she visited. Her travels took her to South America and various island chains, with her most notable research occurring in Brazil and the Azores. By recording and translating these tales, she introduced English-speaking readers to the rich cultural heritages of these Portuguese-influenced regions.
Her literary contributions represent a significant effort in early twentieth-century ethnography and folklore preservation. Through her accessible anthologies, Eells helped bridge cultural gaps and ensured that the vibrant oral histories of the Atlantic communities she encountered were preserved in written form for future generations.
