M. B. M. Toland

M. B. M. Toland ( McKenzie or Morrison; after first marriage, Gridley; after second marriage, Toland; 1825-1895) was an American writer and poet, as well as a leader in San Francisco society. A woman of considerable wealth, she was the mainstay of numerous charitable institutions. After the death of her husband, Hugh Toland, who founded Toland Medical College, she devoted considerable time to literary pursuits, becoming best known by her poem. She published many volumes of poetry, which were usually issued as holiday editions. in 1825, but removed to California at an early age. They had a son, Charles Gridley (d. 1891). She was widowed at an early age. On October 6, 1860, she married Hugh Toland. They had a son, Hugo. Hugh Toland also adopted Charles. Between 1881 and 1885, she made a world tour in company with her son Hugo. Interment was at Laurel Hill Cemetery.

Selected works Aegle and the elf, a fantasy Atlina, queen of the floating isle Eudora: a tale of love The Inca princess: an historical romance Iris the romance of an opal ring Legend Laymone, a poem Onti Ora. A metrical romance. Sir Rae. A poem Stella Tisáyac of the Yosemite

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