Early Life and Artistic Beginnings Barton Stone Hays, born April 5th, 1826 in Greenville, Ohio, emerged as a significant figure in the landscape of early Indiana art—a testament to self-taught dedication and an unwavering passion for capturing the world around him. Unlike many artists of his time who benefited from formal training, Hays embarked on his artistic journey through sheer observation and practice. He initially focused on portraiture, diligently rendering the faces of those within his community in Ohio, building a reputation for his ability to convey likeness and character. This ea…