Fuller, Augustus

Born at Deerfield, MA; deafened in early childhood; attended the American Asylum for the Education and Instruction of the Deaf and Dumb. Learned painting through a brief apprenticeship and became an itinerant portraitist, much of his work in miniatures. The development of photography reduced demand for his services, and he worked on his family farm to support himself. Developed a problem with alcoholism, which led to a breakdown.