Visit a Museum that Celebrates ‘The Spirit of 76’ Every Day

Three figures standing shoulder to shoulder march across a gray landscape. A cloud of fog billows behind them, shrouding soldiers and the faint outline of an American flag. Two of the subjects tap on drums while the third plays a small woodwind instrument. The trio serves as the centerpiece of “The Spirit of  ’76,” one of roughly a dozen similar paintings created by artist Archibald Willard between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. 

As a teenager, Willard moved to the Ohio town of Wellington, where he worked as a painter for local carriage and furniture companies. His skills as an artist evolved over time, leading him to amass a large body of work, including the first rendition of “The Spirit of  ’76.”

It began as a sketch of the Brighton Drum and Fife Corps, which Willard originally titled “Yankee Doodle.” However, a Cleveland art dealer suggested that he make the painting more patriotic to have an entry into the centennial celebration in Philadelphia in 1876. Today, the original painting is housed in Marblehead, Massachusetts.

Willard went on to re-create his original painting several times, including the one now prominently displayed at The Spirit of ’76 Museum in Wellington. Based on historical descriptions, it is believed that the painting once belonged to our 18th President Ulysses S. Grant, who Willard served under during the Civil War.

“[Each painting] is considered an original because he does something different,” says Tim Rolfe, president of the Southern Lorain County Historical Society, which oversees operations for The Spirit of ’76 Museum. “No two are alike.”

The three-story museum, which opened in 1968, is built around Willard’s body of work and contributions from the community. In addition to “The Spirit of  ’76,” the museum houses dozens of other works by the artist, many of which were donated. 

In addition to displaying Willlard’s art, the museum pays tribute to local and regional history. There are thousands of pieces on display, ranging from personal belongings to Native American artifacts, each sharing a personal story of individuals or families in the area.

201 N. Main St., Wellington 44090, 440/647-4367, thespiritof76museum.org  

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