Natalia M. Belting Papers, 1943-1997 | University of Illinois Archives

Natalia Maree Belting (1915-1997) was born on July 11, 1915 in Oskaloosa, Iowa. Her parents encouraged her to read, and she wrote her first book at age six. She received a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Illinois at Urbana in 1936, and went on to earn a master's degree and Ph.D. in American history (1940) from the same institution. She taught history at her alma mater from 1942 until her retirement in 1985. She became an associate professor in 1973, and retired as a full professor.

Belting studied and wrote about the history of Native Americans and early French colonizers in Illinois. This research formed the basis of her first children's book, Pierre of Kaskaskia, as well as her third book, In Enemy Hands. Her books Indy and Mr. Lincoln and Verity Mullens and the Indian were also based on historical incidents. For the most part, Belting adapted myths and folktales for young readers. Focusing on a single theme, such as "little people" (Elves and Ellefolk) or the sun (The Sun Is a Golden Earring), Belting usually included ten to twenty myths from around the world. In 1962, her children's book The Sun Is a Golden Earring, with illustrations by Bernarda Bryson, was a Caldecott Medal honor book.

Throughout her adult life, Belting was active in community affairs, and preached occasionally at Presbyterian churches. She also regularly contributed to a News-Gazette column entitled, "Illinois Past." As a local historian, she provided WCIA material for their series on Illinois history. Belting was named local historian of the year in 1983 by the Champaign County Historical Museum and she served on the Board of Governors of the Champaign County Historical Society. Belting died in Urbana, Illinois on December 17, 1997.

Contemporary Authors, New Revision Series, Volume 3

"Natalia Belting, 1915-1997" History at Illinois, fall 1997-winter 1998, page 8.