Alice L. Reeve was born in Somerworth, New Hampshire on September 9, 1888. Her parents were Frank P. Reeve and Hallie E. She was one of four children. Like her sister she attended Salem Normal School in 1910. She obivously had a passion for books and knowledge, since she pursued a career in teaching. When World War I broke out, she decided to be a part of the war effort and become a member of the Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA), she traveled all over Europe. She went to England, France Switzerland and Bristish Isle.