Stockbridge, MA, November 13, 2016—Willie Gillis, Norman Rockwell’s fictional Army private, told the story of one man’s army in a series of eleven published (and one unpublished) Saturday Evening Post covers during World War II, beginning in October 1941. Willie was depicted doing everything from proudly receiving a care package to peeling potatoes, reading the hometown news, and attending college on the G.I. Bill. Norman Rockwell Museum will celebrate the 75th anniversary of one of Rockwell’s most beloved characters with an afternoon festival to be held on Saturday, November 19, from 1 to 5 p.m.

At 2 p.m., join James Kimble, Ph.D., Associate Professor Communications at Seton Hall University, as he explore the popularity of the Willie Gillis character among World War II soldiers. Dr. Kimble will discuss rationing, Victory Gardens, World War II cuisine, and the original farm to table movement; the role of comics and cartoons, swing dancing, and games and other pastimes of the war years will also be explored .

The afternoon program will also feature art making, tours of related Norman Rockwell artwork, and a Willie Gillis look-alike contest. The event is free for Museum members, or included with Museum admission.