Adelma S. Atkinson (1853-1912), commonly known as "Dell," was the daughter of Benjamin F. (1822-1897) and Harriet C. Atkinson (1829-1891). She studied with Mary Baker Eddy in October 1876. Her parents were also students of Eddy's and the family was active in the early Christian Science movement until they all withdrew their memberships in May 1880. On April 3, 1881, Adelma Atkinson married Edward J. Arens (c.1841-1905), a former associate of Eddy's and member of the Christian Scientist Association until he was expelled in June 1880.

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