Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882), one of
American's most influential authors and thinkers, also a
minister and noted lecturer. He is credited with the
statement: "If a
man can write a
better book, preach a
better sermon, or make a
better mousetrap than his neighbor, though he builds his
house in the woods the
world will make a beaten
path to his door."
—SHSBC Binder 1 Glossary