Community Corner
Spirit of the Doughboy Returns to Old Lyme’s Memorial Town Hall
Spirit of the Doughboy, a drawing that left a large blank space on the wall of town hall when it was removed for restoration, is now hanging once more.
A Press Release from Old Lyme First Selectwoman Bonnie Reemsnyder.
The Spirit of the Doughboy is a large pastel drawing that has been hanging over the main stairway in the Memorial Town Hall since 1920, when the building was first opened.
The post-World War I Committee charged with creating a memorial to those who had given their lives during the war included former First Selectman Timothy Griswold’s grandfather. The drawing is believed to have been a donation from W.E.S. Griswold.
Artist Albert Herter, a contemporary of John Singer Sargent and James McNeil Whistler, is most known for his World War I “Liberty Bond” posters.
Spirit of the Doughboy was removed for safekeeping during the renovation of the Town Hall from 2008 to 2010. Based upon a subsequent evaluation by Jennifer Lacker of J. London Appraisals, the drawing underwent conservation treatment by Sarah Dove (Fine Art Conservation) and was reframed by Mara Gillen Beckwith (Studio M Framing).
Local contractor Michael Magee returned the drawing to its home above the stairway earlier this month.
A reception celebrating Spirit of the Doughboy’s return is open to all and scheduled for 6:30pm on Monday, April 22 in the Memorial Town Hall. Light refreshments will be served.
Attendance should be confirmed by April 18 with an e-mail (to selectmansoffice@oldlyme-ct.gov), or a phone call (860 434 1605, ext. 210 or 212).
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