Exploring the Society of Illustrators: Norman Rockwell Painting to Archives

How did a New York City carriage house originally built for the personal secretary of legendary American financier J.P. Morgan eventually become a professional society dedicated to the art of illustration in America? And what legacy has it crafted since its inception in 1901? It's time to explore a historic five-story townhouse in the Upper East Side where famous illustrators like N.C. Wyeth, Rube Goldberg, and Norman Rockwell once roamed the halls.

Join New York Adventure Club for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour through the Museum of Illustration at the Society of Illustrators, the oldest non-profit dedicated to promoting the art of illustration in America.

Led by a Society of Illustrators member, our special experience through their historic townhouse will include:

• A brief history of the Society's historic townhouse, which was originally a carriage house built in 1875 for William P. Read, a personal secretary for financier J.P. Morgan
• T he origin story of the Society of Illustrators, from its founding fathers to its rapid growth in the 20th century
• View the current exhibitions on display at the Museum of Illustration and take a rare trip inside the archives, which contains original works from famed illustrators throughout the century, one of the most comprehensive collections of this genre in the world
• A look inside the Society's historic library, with its famous tiled fireplace with art dating back to the 1940s

The tour will conclude in the Society’s Hall of Fame Gallery, where attendees can stay and purchase drinks. Don’t forget to take a look at the stunning Norman Rockwell painting, "Christmas Coach," just behind the bar!

Click here to see pictures from one of our last visits to the Society of Illustrators.

See you there!

*The Society of Illustrators does not have an elevator

Testimonials

" Great building and great artwork" -Marilyn

" The interesting details and facts about the collection, seeing the 'behind the scenes' areas." -Emile

" Fascinating history. We were lucky to have the Director to show us round who was so nice and passionate about the work they do at the Society, including some fantastic outreach projects." -Lindsay

" The gentleman was an excellent speaker who shared a wealth of information about the Society, the artwork and the artists." -Barbara

" The director of the museum was personable, knowledgeable, communicated the info well." -Susan

" Loved it. Glad I went. I liked seeing the entire 5 floors, especially the permanent collection room" -Kelly

"I liked going into the Society of Illustrators' archives and upstairs. Fantastic tour!" -Juliana

" This was a full fledged tour of the entire Museum,thank you! Yes, this was my first experience with "Adventures" so I say thank you- a very positive experience." -Joanne

" So interesting! We always enjoy NYAC!" -James

" Tour guide was friendly and informative." -Kelly

"The presenter was very knowledgeable. The tour was relaxed and allowed questions from the participants. Thanks" -Judith

"Everything! It was the most personalized and memorable tour I have experienced to date. I learned about a society and a profession I knew very little about. If I lived closer, I would be proud to attend their events and support this amazing society." -Gewn

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Categories: In-Person, Mansions & Private Clubs

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