John Updike (1932 — 2009)

John Updike (1932 — 2009) is a Pennsylvania historical marker in Shillington, Berks County, dedicated 2021.

Berks County · dedicated 2021 · 117 Philadelphia Avenue, Shillington

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Two-time Pulitzer Prize winner and one of America’s most noted authors, Updike lived here until age thirteen. He was inspired by his mother, an amateur writer, and his childhood surroundings, which he included in many works over his 50-year career. Best known for his “Rabbit” quartet of novels, Updike was also acclaimed for his short stories and essays. He was honored by two US presidents for his contributions to American literature and culture.

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what this marker records spans 1777 to 1789, overlapping William Gabby's years here

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Marker data: Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission via data.pa.gov

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On the National Register nearby

John Updike Childhood Home50 ft

Places within about 300 feet of this marker that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A nearby listing is not always the marker's own subject.