Ann Claypole Wright, often known as "Claypole" to her friends, was born in Wilmington, New Hanover County on September 8, 1836. During her teen years, she attended St. Mary's School in Raleigh. She was friends with Margaret Eliza Cotten and they frequently social gatherings together. In 1856, she married Walker Meares. She died in Wilmington on November 27, 1887.