The Ernest Thompson Seton Institute aims to bring Seton’s genius to new generations.
Seton had an enormous impact in several areas.
With growing urbanization, we risk losing appreciation for our role in the ecosystem that sustains us. Understanding nature and our role in it helps us learn to thrive in harmony with nature. Seton’s program of Woodcraft guides us to respect nature and learn to live within biotic boundaries.
Seton was a talented and formally trained artist. He created beauty through interpretation, bringing awe and joy to our hearts. He sketched landscapes and the animals that lived within them. He used interpretive illustration to promote understanding.
Writing and storytelling are ways we influence one another. Literature shapes a space where imagination creates private, memorable experiences based on the interpretation of words.
The most important thing today is the character of our youth. eton believed that outdoor education was the best way to develop character and moral responsibility. Curiosity, individuality, and personal improvement are paramount. He developed programs steeped in adventure and fun!
Seton met and befriended Native people across North America. He respected their cultures and strongly advocated for Native rights and the preservation of Native cultures.
The Institute seeks to promote these values and preserve and make Seton’s ideas and work accessible for generations to come.

The Ernest Thompson Seton Institute, Inc. (the Institute) is a New Mexico nonprofit corporation.
Our Mission:
Through expansive thinking and action, the Ernest Thompson Seton Institute inspires curiosity and respect for nature and humanity aligned with Ernest Thompson Seton’s ideals.
Our Vision:
To preserve and build upon Ernest Thompson Seton’s philosophies.
Tax Status:
The Institute is recognized as an exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions are deductible to the extent permitted by applicable law.
In accordance with applicable requirements of the Internal Revenue Service, the Institute will provide copies of its Form 1023-EZ Streamlined Application for Recognition of Exemption Under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and its last three annual reports on Form 990-N. Please direct requests to info@etsetoninstitute.org. You can also mail the request to Ernest Thompson Seton Institute, Inc., 4781 Quail Run Avenue, Las Cruces, NM 88011.
Click here to donate to the Ernest Thompson Seton Institute.