The Spirit of ’76 Museum
Dedicated to the memory of Archibald M. Willard, painter of “Spirit of ’76,” and to preserving the history of Southern Lorain County for the community that made it possible.
Plan Your Visit See Exhibits Calendar of Events
Archibald M. Willard
Born a few miles from Wellington, Willard grew up on stories his own grandfather told of the Revolutionary War. Those stories inspired “Spirit of ’76” — one of the most recognized paintings in American history, and the reason this museum bears its name. Today the museum holds over 30 of his works alongside furniture, murals, and ephemera touched by his hand.
Our Story
Founded in 1968 by the Southern Lorain County Historical Society, the museum began with a simple need: somewhere to house the growing Alex Justice collection. A call went out to the community for artifacts, and the response was overwhelming — including eight oil paintings by Archibald Willard, entrusted to a small Ohio town by families who wanted his legacy kept close to home.
Read Our Full History →
Connect to a Cause 2026
For 12 hours on Thursday, September 17, 2026, Lorain County comes together to support local nonprofits. Every gift to The Spirit of ’76 Museum during this community-wide giving day directly supports the treatment of the 1896 McKinley for President banner, pictured here, and helps grow the museum’s endowment.
Give on Sept 17 → Donation Form →What You’ll Discover
Willard’s Legacy
Original works and reproductions by the artist behind “Spirit of ’76.”
Wellington’s Cheese Industry
Artifacts from the era when Wellington was a hub of Ohio’s cheese trade.
Railroads & Local History
How the railroad shaped Southern Lorain County.
Visit Us
Hours
Sat & Sun
1:00–3:30 p.m.
Apr–Oct
Location
201 N. Main St.
Wellington, OH
Admission
Always free.
Fully accessible.
Group Tours
By appointment — contact us
More to Explore
Stay Connected
Upcoming board meetings, events, and museum news — subscribe to stay in the loop.
The Spirit of '76 Museum 