This Week in History: Part Three

Nature Magazine cover, March 1924

With spring fast approaching, it was a good opportunity to highlight one of USF’s rare book journals. Nature Magazine, which focused on the great outdoors, began publication in 1923 by the American Nature Association’s president, Charles Pack, and his son Arthur. They heralded themselves as, “…the answer to a long-felt want—a monthly magazine where the child and the grown-up alike may revel in pictures and stories of birds, beasts, fish, tress, plants and other living, breathing evidence of the Creator’s handiwork” (1). This sentiment made its way into each issue of the magazine, until its run ended in 1959.

Articles typically focused on plant development, animal evolution and biology, travel excursions from members of the American Nature Association, and advertisements for campgrounds, outdoor wear, and national parks. Celebrities were featured occasionally, as well; for example, Florenz Ziegfeld – the American Broadway producer of the Ziegfeld Follies (1907–1931) – was highlighted in the March 1931 issue. His 100 acre estate Hastings-on-Hudson was called a “Nature lover’s paradise,” and Mr. Ziegfeld said: “I suppose you would call it a ‘kick’. It is my chief pleasure, and it never wearies me. I get more fun out of staying at home with my animals and birds than I do out of interviewing the most famous stars of the stage and screen” (172). 

"Dinty, a Pet Porcupine," page 135

There are also featured stories about unique pets written by members of the National Association of Audubon Societies. In the March 1924 edition is an article titled: “Dinty, a Pet Porcupine,” by William and Irene Finley. Finley was a photographer, filmmaker, and author who wrote and lectured extensively on wildlife conservation issues. Dinty the porcupine was delivered by caesarian after his mother was killed by a trapper, then given to the Finley’s to raise to maturity. The article discussed Dinty’s life with the Finleys and how their goal was to determine, “whether kindness would counteract his wild instincts” (134).  

The efforts of the Finley’s included filming Dinty for their conservation lectures. “…The response was always greatest when Dinty walked awkwardly across the screen on his heels….As a moving-picture actor, Dinty won the hearts of the audience” (137). They hand-fed Dinty and introduced him to their dog Peter, who soon realized Dinty’s quills did not make for good cuddle buddies. However, over the course of the year, Dinty’s natural instincts became apparent when he left the safety of the Finley home for the woods, eventually becoming the wild animal he was meant to be.

If you’re interested in Nature Magazine, come by the Archives Reading Room or make an appointment.