Emily Elizabeth Dickinson was born on December 10, 1830 in Amherst. She was the middle child of Edward and Emily Dickinson. Her brother, William Austin Dickinson, was born on April 16, 1829, and Lavinia Norcross Dickinson, her sister, was born on February 28, 1833. Emily's father was a prominent figure throughout his life. He was treasurer of Amherst College from 1835, member of state legislature for several terms, and member of Congress for one term. Emily once mentioned her father was harsh and that she had no mother. …