The Genealogy and Life of Asa Gilbert Eddy: Husband of Mary Baker Glover, Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science

Longyear, Mary Beecher. The Genealogy and Life of Asa Gilbert Eddy: Husband of Mary Baker Glover, Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science. Boston: Press of Geo. H. Ellis Co., 1922.

Longyear, the philanthropist who founded the Longyear Museum in 1923 dedicated to understanding Mary Baker Eddy, wanted to “give the world a correct knowledge of the character” (v) of Eddy’s chosen helper and husband. “When Divine Science is more generally received by mankind, as a revelation from God to Mrs. Glover (Mary Baker Eddy), this important question will inevitably arise in the thoughts of men, viz.—How came the name of Asa Gilbert Eddy, an almost unknown man, to be associated with her, her published work, and activities in the establishment of the cause of Christian Science” (v)? Persuaded that he would be able to help her, Mary accepted his marriage proposal. He gave unselfishly and untiringly during their brief six-year marriage and supported her during some of her greatest trials. His death, which was a terrible blow to her, had been the source of much speculation among her followers and scholars. Why did she not prevent his death? Was it poison or disease? Mrs. Eddy explained that two doctors claimed opposing views: Dr. Eastaman declared arsenical poisoning; Dr. Noyes, no poison involved. She claimed it was the poison of malicious mesmerism. The last 55 pages of the book consist of Asa’s full lineage by a genealogist.