Early life and education Gene Stratton-Porter

one of stratton-porter s nature photographs of owls, 1 of favorite birds study , photograph.

gene received little formal schooling in life; however, developed strong interest in nature, birds. young girl, gene s father , brother, leander, taught appreciate nature roamed freely around family farm, observing animals in natural habitats , caring various pets. after family moved wabash in 1874, gene attended school on regular basis , became avid reader. began music lessons in banjo, violin, , piano sister, florence, , received private art lessons local instructor. gene finished final term of senior year @ wabash high school. because failing classes, made decision on own quit, later claiming had left school care anastasia, terminally ill cancer , receiving treatment in illinois. after leaving school, gene continued pursue lifelong interest in ecology , wildlife.