Smith, Clara Phoebe

Born at Russell, NY; deaf in early childhood. Attended the New York Institution, and after leaving, she was instructed by various art teachers, concluding with a course in the art school of Syracuse University. Specialized in black and white portraits; also became an accomplished photographer, working for a noted photographer and then opening her own photography studio. Left that studio in 1901 to establish a new one in her home town of Russell.