Early Life and Background Born: September 27, 1859, Bridgeport, Ohio Died: August 29, 1953 Parents: Irish immigrant parents; father was a merchant. Early Fascination: Developed a strong interest in American Indians from a young age. Hearing Loss: Nearly drowned as a boy, resulting in permanent hearing loss which significantly impacted his education and communication. He learned to read lips and carried a writing pad. Early Work: Worked in a nail factory at the age of 12 to support his family after his father's death. Education and Artistic Training McMicken School of Design,…