Elizabeth Willis DeHuff (1886–1983)[1] was an American painter, teacher, playwright, and children's book writer.

[2] DeHuff is also a children's book author who writes predominantly utilizing Native American folklore and themes.

[4] In writing these children's books, and other works by her like Kaw-eh and Say the Bells of Old Missions: Legends of Old New Mexico Churches[5] that are not necessarily children's books, DeHuff is instrumental in documenting Native American folklore and providing authenticity in the telling of it.

[6] These other works included non children's books and periodical articles Native American, Hispanic, and New Mexico subjects.

Her fascination with Native American culture quickly started developing as she became involved with the community surrounding the Santa Fe Indian School, which her husband had become the superintendent of.

[8][9] As a result of her instruction methods, some people accused her lessons of pushing beliefs of paganism onto students.

[11][13] In 1924, a play DeHuff wrote, Kaw-eh, was performed by students from Santa Fe Indian School.

[11] From about this time till about 1945, she took part in the Santa Fe Indian Detours where she lectured several nights a week at La Fonda Hotel.

As a result, she maintained her friendship and encouragement of Indian artists, especially that of Fred Kabotie, who she was especially close to.