The J.M. Davis Arms and Historical Museum along Route 66 in Claremore, Oklahoma, today is opening its newest exhibit, “Norman Rockwell: In Search of America.”
Rockwell, a painter and illustrator for about 60 years, was beloved during his lifetime for his sometimes whimsical, sometimes serious look at American life.
According to the Oklahoma Route 66 Association:
This special exhibit showcases more than one-third of Rockwell’s iconic covers created for The Saturday Evening Post, reflecting the character and charm of everyday American experiences. Each cover captures moments of joy, patriotism, humor, and reflection that defined a generation and continue to inspire audiences today.
“Norman Rockwell’s work speaks to people of all generations,” said Randy Ramer, director of the J. M. Davis Arms and Historical Museum. “We are excited to bring this special exhibit to Claremore and offer visitors the chance to experience the beauty and storytelling power of one of America’s greatest illustrators.”
And there’s more: On the same day as the exhibit opening, the museum will host a special book signing event featuring Will Rogers Medallion Award Award-winning authors, including Manuela Schneider, Mark Warren, L. J. Martin, Bill Markley, and BettyLynne McCarthy. Visitors can meet the authors, learn about their award-winning works, and purchase signed copies in the Museum Gift Shop.
Museum hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
The museum, which completed significant renovations two yeras ago, contains more than 13,000 firearms, plus about 1,200 beer steins, 19th-century music boxes, Native American artifacts, swords, knives, antiques, boot jacks, cattle brands, horns and trophy heads.
Museum founder J.M. Davis first displayed a small gun collection in 1929 at the long-gone Mason Hotel along Route 66 in Claremore. His collection grew, and the museum to house it was opened in 1969, also along Route 66.
Davis died at age 78 in 1973. He and his wife are interred in the museum.
(Image of dozens of Norman Rockwell’s Saturday Evening Post covers at the Norman Rockwell Museum by gigi_nyc via Flickr)