Thurber

Thurber is a surname of English origin and may also refer to several places and institutions in the United States. The most prominent individual associated with the name is James Thurber (1894–1961), an American cartoonist, author, and humorist whose work helped shape The New Yorker’s early voice. He is best known for short stories and cartoons such as The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, and for the collection The Thurber Carnival.

In Columbus, Ohio, Thurber House is a literary center and museum dedicated to James Thurber. The organization hosts readings, writers’ residencies, and educational programs to promote humor writing and literary culture.

The Thurber Prize for American Humor, established in the 1990s by the Thurber House, honors outstanding American humor writing. The prize highlights the enduring influence of Thurber’s work on contemporary humor literature.

Geographically, Thurber also refers to a small historic community in Erath County, Texas. Thurber, Texas, is known as a former coal mining town with roots in the early 20th century and is often cited in discussions of regional industrial history.

Overall, Thurber carries significance in American literary circles primarily through James Thurber’s legacy, while also appearing in place names and cultural institutions that preserve and promote humor writing.