Ernest Thompson Seton

Date of Birth: August 14, 1860

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: October 23, 1946

Biography

Ernest Thompson Seton was a British-born American naturalist, author, and founder of the Woodcraft Indians, which later became part of the Boy Scouts of America. Born on August 14, 1860, in South Shields, County Durham, England, Seton emigrated with his family to Canada at a young age. He developed a deep love for nature and wildlife, which he expressed through his prolific writing and detailed illustrations. Seton studied art in London and Paris before returning to North America, where he worked as a naturalist in Manitoba. His experiences in the wilderness inspired a series of books and stories that combined realistic animal behavior with imaginative narratives. Some of his notable works include “Wild Animals I Have Known,” “The Biography of a Grizzly,” and “Two Little Savages.” In addition to his literary contributions, Seton played a significant role in youth education. He believed in teaching young people about nature and survival skills, which led him to establish the Woodcraft Indians in 1902. This organization emphasized outdoor skills, ethical behavior, and respect for nature, principles that would later influence the Boy Scouts of America, of which Seton became a founding member in 1910. Seton continued to write, lecture, and advocate for wildlife conservation throughout his life. He passed away on October 23, 1946, in Seton Village, New Mexico, a community he helped establish.

5 Interesting Facts about Ernest Thompson Seton

1. Ernest Thompson Seton was originally born Ernest Evan Thompson and later adopted “Seton” as his surname.

2. He was awarded the Daniel Giraud Elliot Medal in 1927 by the National Academy of Sciences for his scientific contributions.

3. Seton was an accomplished artist and illustrated many of his own books.

4. He played a crucial role in the establishment of the Boy Scouts of America and served as its first Chief Scout.

5. Seton Village, an artist colony in New Mexico, was founded by him and remains a testament to his dedication to community and nature.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ernest Thompson Seton

1. “Manhood is the aim of Scouting.”

2. “The white man who is our agent speaks with a forked tongue.”

3. “There is a delight in the hardy life of the open.”

4. “The life of the wood is more than an escape; it is a return to the essentials.”

5. “All wisdom is rooted in learning to call things by their right names.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Ernest Thompson Seton’s highest net worth is not documented, but his influence and contributions to literature and youth organizations have left a lasting legacy.

Children

Ernest Thompson Seton had one daughter, Ann Seton, with his first wife, Grace Gallatin Seton. Ann was also known for her involvement in writing and preserving her father’s legacy.