14 Facts About Archibald Willard

Archibald MacNeal Willard was an American painter who was born and raised in Bedford, Ohio.

Archibald Willard was the son of Samuel Willard, the pastor of Bedford Baptist Church.

Archibald Willard began as a basic wagon painter, but eventually was allowed to paint elaborate decorations that were popular at the time.

Archibald Willard joined the 86th Ohio Infantry Regiment in 1863 and fought in the Civil War, but was not heavily involved.

Archibald Willard saw a potential in Willard to create humorous and cheerful paintings to make profits.

Archibald Willard painted The Spirit of '76 about 1875 in Wellington, Ohio after he saw a holiday parade pass through the town square.

Archibald Willard painted three murals in the main hall of the Fayette County courthouse in Washington Court House, Ohio: The Spirit of Electricity, The Spirit of Telegraphy, and The Spirit of the Mail.

Archibald Willard is buried in Wellington, Ohio at the Greenwood Cemetery.

Archibald Willard is commemorated by a Willard Avenue in his birthplace of Bedford and a Willard Drive in nearby Garfield Heights.

Common myths claim that people were so inspired by it that Archibald Willard was invited to show his painting and that even then president Grant gave his praise.

Several later variations painted by Archibald Willard have been exhibited around the country, including in the United States Department of State.

Archibald Willard developed the painting from a sketch, which included three men dancing and singing.

Archibald Willard used his father, Samuel Willard, as the model for the middle character of the painting.

Archibald Willard made several other works of art, including The Blue Girl, and others not as recognized.