Bill Nye’s Comic History of England (1906)

Edgar Wilson Bill Nye (1850-1896) was a distinguished American journalist, who later became widely known as a humorist. He was also the founder and editor of the Laramie Boomerang. He adopted the name Bill Nye after a character in a famous poem by Bret Harte. The Boomerang was founded while Nye was the postmaster of Larmie City, Wyoming Territory. It launched him to national fame, gaining subscribers in every state and some foreign countries. Some of his works include Bill Nye’s Comic History of the United States, Bill Nye and Boomerang, Bill Nye’s History of England, and Bill Nye’s Red Book. Late in his career, he was briefly associated with James Whitcomb Riley with whom he wrote two books. They also appeared together on the lecture circuit. He also travelled and lectured with Luther Burbank. He died of meningitis. A historical marker honoring him is located in Pierce County, Wisconsin, between the towns of Prescott and River Falls. A small monument marks his birthplace in Shirley, Maine.