New Ulm is full of culture, art, and history, but did you know it was the childhood home to author and artist Wanda Gág?! Gág is most famously known for her book, Millions of Cats, which is argued to be the first American picture book for children. The book has never been out of print and is the oldest American picture book still being printed today! Some say that Gág initiated the picture book movement in America. She designed the “double page spread,” which continues to be used by authors and illustrators to this day. Wanda had a passion for portraying the ordinary things in life, giving her illustrations and artwork a homey feel. She wrote several children’s books including A B C Bunny, Gone Is Gone, and Tales from Grimm. Her illustrations and artwork have been exhibited both nationally and abroad! 

Come to New Ulm and visit the beautiful Queen Anne-Style home that once belonged to the Gág family. The mission of the Wanda Gag House Association is to, “educate and inspire by preserving the Gág family home and celebrating the family’s history and creative endeavors.” Stop in for a tour and learn why the Gág family is so fascinating! Tours showcase the art and illustrations done by the entire family and dive deep into the family’s history. The house is open for tours Saturdays from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. from now through November 6, or year-round by appointment. Admission is just $3! The house is located at 226 N. Washington, just blocks away from New Ulm’s historic downtown.

For more information about the Gág family or scheduling tours, click here!