Wellington, Ohio - The REAL Spirit of '76!
In all of American art, one of the most easily recognized works was originally a humorous cartoon called Yankee Doodle.
In 1875, Wellington artist Archibald M. Willard watched from his studio window as members of a fife and drum corps clowned around while preparing for a holiday parade. He sketched a quick cartoon of the scene.
A friend recognized the potential in the idea and convinced Willard to turn it into a serious painting. Willard spent months working on the piece. His father, Samuel, served as the model for the white-haired drummer. His father died while he was painting; after a short pause, Willard returned to the work with renewed intensity.
The painting was unveiled at the 1876 Centennial Celebration in Philadelphia, where it was an instant sensation. Many viewers became openly emotional upon seeing it. Renamed The Spirit of ’76, the painting toured museums and art galleries in numerous cities, drawing sold-out crowds.
Although originally panned by art critics as too cartoonish, the public— who usually ignore critics anyway—embraced it wholeheartedly. It quickly became more than just a painting; it is a fundamental symbol of American spirit and ideals.
Willard recognized a good thing and began producing reproductions. He personally painted at least four known copies, one of which is displayed at the Spirit of ’76 Museum in Wellington. Another hangs in Cleveland’s City Hall. Many other artists have also copied the iconic work, resulting in perhaps hundreds of versions now in circulation. To this day, the painting continues to serve as a model for parody, politics, and promotions.
Wellington makes a wonderful day trip. The beautiful Town Hall is an unusual blend of Greek, Byzantine, and Gothic architecture. Nearby stands the impressive Herrick Library, built in 1902.Mickey’s is a proud member of the Wellington community, with three locations: one north, one south, and one downtown. We love it here — it’s a wonderful Ohio town.
