Wanda Gág House | New Ulm

Wanda Gág House, located in New Ulm, Minnesota, is a historically and culturally significant site, renowned as the childhood home of Wanda Gág (1893–1946), a celebrated American author and illustrator best known for her pioneering children’s book Millions of Cats-the first American picture book published in full color. The house itself reflects the artistic spirit of the Gág family and stands as a testament to the creative environment that shaped Wanda’s life and work.

Historical Context and Family Background

The house was built in 1894 by Wanda’s father, Anton Gág, who was an accomplished lithographer and artist. The Gág family was deeply artistic: Anton taught his children to appreciate and create art, fostering a rich creative atmosphere at home. Wanda, along with her siblings, grew up immersed in art, literature, and music. This nurturing environment played a critical role in her development as an innovative storyteller and illustrator.

Anton Gág’s work in lithography was well respected, and his artistic skills influenced Wanda’s distinctive style, characterized by detailed line work and expressive imagery. The house functioned not just as a residence but also as a studio space, where the family created and displayed their artworks.

Architectural Features

The Wanda Gág House is a classic example of the Queen Anne architectural style popular in the late 19th century. It is a two-and-a-half-story wood-frame structure notable for its complex rooflines, decorative wooden shingles, and intricate detailing.

Exterior: The facade features a prominent projecting gable and a broad polygonal bay window with a large sash window, providing ample natural light to the interior. The combination of clapboards and wooden shingles adds texture and visual interest typical of Queen Anne design.

Interior: Inside the home, original stenciling and painted decorations by Anton Gág adorn the walls, reflecting the family’s artistic craftsmanship. The presence of an artist’s studio within the house highlights its dual role as both a family residence and a creative workspace.

The house’s preservation has allowed many of these architectural and artistic details to survive intact, providing visitors with an authentic glimpse into a late-19th-century artist’s home.

Artistic and Cultural Significance

Wanda Gág’s legacy is inseparable from this home, which served as the foundation for her creative career. Millions of Cats (published in 1928) was groundbreaking for its use of full-color illustrations and charming storytelling, influencing children’s literature profoundly. The house, therefore, is not only architecturally important but also culturally significant as a birthplace of early American children’s picture books.

In addition to Wanda’s achievements, the house exhibits works by her father Anton and sister Flavia Gág, both artists in their own right. Exhibits include original lithographs, paintings, and personal artifacts that shed light on the family’s artistic endeavors.

Museum and Interpretive Center

Today, the Wanda Gág House operates as a museum dedicated to preserving and interpreting the Gág family’s artistic heritage. The museum offers:

Original artworks and illustrations: Visitors can view original drawings and prints from Wanda Gág’s books and other family works, including pieces from Millions of Cats and Wanda’s later publications.

Archival materials: Letters, personal items, and historical documents provide context to Wanda’s life and creative process.

Storyboards and drawings: In 2025, the museum notably acquired six original storyboard drawings for Wanda’s 1935 book Gone is Gone, complete with handwritten notes and revisions, revealing her meticulous approach to storytelling.

Educational programs: The museum hosts events and workshops aimed at promoting appreciation for children’s literature, art, and local history.

Preservation and Recognition

The Wanda Gág House was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, recognizing its significance as an architectural and cultural landmark. Its preservation ensures that future generations can connect with the history of American illustration and children’s literature.

Visitor Experience and Practical Information

The house is located at 226 North Washington Street in New Ulm, a central location accessible to tourists exploring the city’s cultural sites. The museum is open seasonally from May through October on weekends, with availability by appointment during the rest of the year.

Visitors to the Wanda Gág House can expect a deeply immersive experience, stepping into the environment that nurtured one of America’s foremost early children’s book creators. The intimate setting, combined with original artworks and personal history, offers unique insight into how the Gág family’s creative talents blossomed and left a lasting mark on American art and literature.

Summary

Wanda Gág House is much more than a historic home; it is a vibrant cultural repository honoring a family of artists who shaped early 20th-century children’s literature. Its Queen Anne architecture, artistic interiors, and rich collection of original works create a compelling destination for art lovers, literary enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. The museum’s dedication to preserving and showcasing the Gág legacy ensures that Wanda’s groundbreaking contributions continue to inspire and educate visitors from around the world.