Ernestine Gilbreth Carey

Early Life and Background

Ernestine Gilbreth Carey was born on April 5, 1908, in New York City. She was one of twelve children born to Lillian Moller Gilbreth and Frank Bunker Gilbreth, both pioneers in the field of industrial engineering. Her parents' unique approach to child-rearing, infused with principles from their work in motion study and time management, starkly shaped her upbringing. As a child in such a large family, Carey experienced firsthand the experimental methods her parents applied to improve efficiency in household management, which later became central themes in her writing.

Education

Carey received her early education in Montclair, New Jersey. She went on to attend Smith College where she pursued a degree in English, graduating in 1929. Her education laid the foundation for her literary pursuits and her future career as a writer. Her college years were marked by active participation in campus activities, and her literary talents were honed through courses and involvement in college publications.

Career Beginnings and Development

Carey's career in writing began with her collaboration with her younger brother Frank Bunker Gilbreth Jr. on the book "Cheaper by the Dozen," published in 1948. This work became immensely popular for its humorous and affectionate portrayal of the Gilbreth household, offering a unique glimpse into life with their inventive and demanding parents.

Following the success of their first book, the siblings co-authored a sequel, "Belles on Their Toes," published in 1950, which chronicled their lives following their father's death. Both books were adapted into popular films that contributed to their enduring legacy.

Major Works and Accomplishments

Beyond "Cheaper by the Dozen" and "Belles on Their Toes," Carey continued to impact the literary world through her essays and public speaking, focusing on themes of family dynamics and women's roles. Her seminal works highlighted efficiency, collaboration, and the balancing of traditional family roles with more progressive ideas, often inspired by her mother's career in science and engineering.

Personal Life

In 1930, Carey married Charles E. Carey, and together they managed to navigate both family life and her blossoming career. She had two children, and her experiences as a wife and mother heavily influenced her writing, providing authentic insights into the intricacies of family life.

Legacy and Historical Impact

Carey's work in literature was revolutionary in how it depicted the realities of family life intertwined with innovation and the progressive utilization of psychological principles in household management. As both a cultural historian and writer, her works have served as primary resources for scholars studying mid-20th-century family dynamics and women's roles.

Later Life and Death

In her later years, Carey remained a vital voice in literary circles, contributing to journals and participating in interviews that analyzed the impact of her work. Ernestine Gilbreth Carey passed away on November 4, 2006, in Fresno, California, at the age of 98. Her legacy endures through the timeless appeal of her writing which continues to inspire and entertain generations.