One of the most remarkable and beloved women in America was the late Dorothy Dix. She was actually mother to millions. A New York butcher, who was an admirer of this writer, exclaimed: “Ach, that Dorothy Dix. She’s a momma and poppa wrapped up in one.”
I have just read the story of Dorothy Dix, by Harnett Kane, in collaboration with Ella Bentley. Arthur, the latter a long-time assistant and secretary. It is a fascinatng book — a woman endowed with a will, a purpose, and a courage that never wilted under fire or adversity. In many respects Dorothy Dix was one of the most useful women of her time – the sympathetic and understanding friend to millions who wrote to her over a long period of years. The book is well named — “Dear Dorothy Dix.”
As an early reporter she was the peer of the ablest – man or woman. She was a small woman with dark, sparkling eyes. Perhaps that was why it was so easy for her to edge her way into people’s hearts’ Few could resist her charm, her honesty, and womanly understanding. She made it easy for anyone to confide in her. She had a rare wit and was heavily endowed with genuine common sense. She knew hardships, suffering and disappointments, so that when her great triumphs came they gave to her character balance and serenity.
I can’t help paying a tribute of love to Dorothy Dix in this space, for I knew her for more than thirty years. She had the most devastating smile — a smile that won you to her as a devotee for life! She was so kindly and joyous to all. She got stories from women that no other writer could get. By her almost miraculous instinct she helped to solve many a puzzling crime. She once said no woman was ever convicted that she felt was innocent, so penetrating was that instinct.
As an example of her succinct replies to correspondents, here is one. Said the correspondent: “I am going to be a secretary and want you to recommend a book that will help me become a top-notch one.” Dorothy replied: I highly commend to you the unabridged dictionary.
Dorothy Dix’s great service arrived, however, when she devoted her talents for so many years to her newspaper column, influencing millions with sound advice, comfort, and hope. Harnett Kane’s book is an excellent and an inspiring one – “the story of a compassionate woman.” Yes, Dorothy Dix WAS, “an institution!”
— By George Matthew Adams.
From the Austin Daily Herald. Austin, Minnesota. December 8, 1952.