Ruth Edna Kelley (1893–1982) was an American librarian and author whose literary legacy is defined by her pioneering historical research into seasonal folklore. Born in Massachusetts, she spent her professional life working as a librarian, a role that facilitated her deep engagement with historical texts and popular traditions.\n\nKelley is chiefly remembered for her 1919 work, The Book of Hallowe'en, which stands as the first book-length history dedicated entirely to the holiday. The book meticulously traces the origins of Halloween from ancient Druid autumn festivals and Roman celebrations through Christian adaptations to its modern-day customs in the United States and Europe. It remains a significant historical resource for understanding the evolution of Halloween traditions, games, and superstitions.
