Fox Butterfield: A Profile of His Life and Background
Fox Butterfield is a distinguished figure whose personal history is rooted in a legacy of scholarship and public service. From his upbringing in Pennsylvania to his academic achievements at some of the world's most prestigious institutions, Butterfield's life reflects a deep connection to history and intellectual pursuit.
Early Life and Family Heritage
Born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Butterfield was raised in an environment steeped in historical study. His father, Lyman Henry Butterfield, was a noted historian and served as a director of the Institute of Early American History and Culture located in Williamsburg, Virginia. This familial connection to history is further highlighted by his name; he was named "Fox" after Charles James Fox, the English Parliamentary leader known for supporting the American colonists.
Butterfield's lineage also includes the Canadian industrialist Cyrus S. Eaton, one of his grandfathers, linking his family history to significant industrial and economic influence.
Academic Achievements
Butterfield's commitment to education began at the Lawrenceville School, where he graduated in 1957. He then pursued higher education at Harvard University, where he excelled academically, earning both a bachelor's degree—graduating summa cum laude (with highest honor)—and a master's degree.
In recognition of his contributions and achievements, the University of Puget Sound awarded him an honorary doctorate in 1979.
Personal Life and Family
In 1988, Butterfield married Elizabeth Mehren, a professional reporter for The Los Angeles Times. The couple currently resides in Hingham, Massachusetts, a location that has occasionally served as a subject for Butterfield's writing in The Times.
Butterfield has children from two marriages. From a previous marriage, he has a son, Ethan, and a daughter, Sarah. With Mehren, he had a daughter, Emily, and a son, Sam (1990–2013).
The couple faced a profound personal tragedy with the birth of their daughter, Emily, who was born prematurely on March 26, 1988, and passed away six weeks later on May 17, 1988. This experience was documented in a book by Elizabeth Mehren, which was later adapted into the 1993 television movie Born Too Soon. In the film, Butterfield was portrayed by actor Michael Moriarty, and Mehren was played by Pamela Reed.
Key Facts
- Birthplace: Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
- Education: Lawrenceville School (1957), Harvard University (Bachelor's and Master's), and an honorary doctorate from the University of Puget Sound (1979).
- Family Legacy: Son of historian Lyman Henry Butterfield and grandson of industrialist Cyrus S. Eaton.
- Spouse: Elizabeth Mehren, a reporter for The Los Angeles Times.
- Residence: Hingham, Massachusetts.
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| High School Graduation | Lawrenceville School, 1957 |
| University Degrees | Bachelor's (Summa Cum Laude) and Master's from Harvard |
| Honorary Degree | Doctorate from University of Puget Sound, 1979 |
| Marriage Year | 1988 (to Elizabeth Mehren) |
| Notable Media Connection | Subject of the film "Born Too Soon" (1993) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Fox Butterfield named after?
He was named after Charles James Fox, a leader in the English Parliament who supported the American colonists.
What are Fox Butterfield's academic credentials?
He graduated from the Lawrenceville School in 1957, earned a bachelor's degree (summa cum laude) and a master's degree from Harvard University, and received an honorary doctorate from the University of Puget Sound in 1979.
Who is Elizabeth Mehren?
Elizabeth Mehren is a reporter for The Los Angeles Times and the wife of Fox Butterfield.
What is the movie "Born Too Soon" about?
The 1993 television movie is based on a book by Elizabeth Mehren regarding the couple's daughter, Emily, who was born prematurely and lived for only six weeks.
Where does Fox Butterfield currently live?
He lives in Hingham, Massachusetts.