This year America marks 250 years since 1776, and few images capture that anniversary like The Spirit of ’76: the fife, the drums, and the wounded flag-bearer marching forward under a smoky sky. Millions of people know the painting. Far fewer know that the man who painted it, Archibald Willard, grew up right here in Wellington, Ohio.
Willard painted his famous scene for the nation’s Centennial in 1876, and the original now hangs in Marblehead, Massachusetts. But his story starts here, and so does the largest collection of his work you’ll find anywhere. That’s why our museum carries the name it does, and why the 250th feels personal to us.
This Sunday: Southern Lorain County Historical Road Show
Sunday, October 4 · 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Spirit of ’76 Museum joins five other area museums for the Southern Lorain County Historical Road Show. Jim Foldes of Addie’s Antiques will be at our museum offering informal appraisals, so bring along that family heirloom, the mystery item from the attic, or the piece you’ve always wondered about. It’s a great excuse to visit and learn something about your own bit of history.
Annual Dinner: Reservations Needed Now
Thursday, October 8 · Eagles Hall, 631 South Main St., Wellington, Ohio
Join the Southern Lorain County Historical Society for our annual dinner. Reservations are required, and we need to hear from you as soon as possible. To reserve your seat, call Karen Wright at 440-647-4367 or 440-864-1984.
Come celebrate the 250th where the Spirit began
The Spirit of ’76 Museum is at 201 North Main Street in Wellington. Whether you’re a longtime member or you’ve driven past the building a hundred times without stopping in, this anniversary year is the perfect time to visit. We’d love to see you this week.
