Anne Bradstreet (1612-1672): H.L. Mencken once said that Puritanism is “the haunting fear that someone, somewhere might be happy.” But is this characterization of the Puritans as stern and joyless really true? Anne Bradstreet’s life would indicate otherwise! As a member of the English Puritans who settled the Massachusetts Bay Colony in the 1630s, Anne gained notoriety as America’s first poet–an incredible accomplishment for a wife and mother of eight in the American wilderness! Yet she also gives us a window into Puritan colonial life–its joys, sorrows, trials and blessings–all undergirded by a radiant, confident faith in God and His Word. Truly, her poetry is a celebration of God’s goodness in every area of life! The Puritans were anything but dull and dour, as Anne Bradstreet’s life so beautifully demonstrates!