Notable Willards
From colonial New England to American education, art, industry, and public life, people bearing the Willard name have left their mark in remarkably different ways.
Here are five Willards whose stories have become part of the larger American story.
Simon Willard
1605-1676
Founder | Colonist | Community Leader
Simon Willard was one of the earliest American Willards. He arrived in Massachusetts in 1634 and became involved in the founding and development of Cambridge, Concord, and Lancaster. He had 17 children, creating many of the branches that would spread throughout New England and beyond.
Emma Willard
1787-1870
Educator | Pioneer for Women's Education
Emma Willard became one of the most influential American educators of the 19th century. She advocated for women's education at a time when opportunities for women were severely limited and founded the school that became the Emma Willard School in Troy, New York.
Frances Willard
1839-1898
Educator | Reformer | Suffragist
Frances Willard was an educator and social reformer who became a major leader of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union and advocated for women's voting rights and other social reforms. She also served as the first dean of women at Northwestern University.
Archibald Willard
1836-1918
Artist | Painter of The Spirit of '76
Archibald MacNeal Willard created The Spirit of '76, the iconic painting depicting three Revolutionary-era figures marching with fife and drums. The work was created for the 1876 Centennial Exposition and became one of the most recognizable images associated with the American Revolution.
Joseph Willard
1738-1804
Scholar | Minister | President of Harvard
Joseph Willard served as the 12th president of Harvard College from 1781 to 1804. During his presidency. Harvard established the institution that became Harvard Medical School and introduced other important changes to its curriculum and administration.
Every Willard story adds another branch.
Do you have a memory, family tradition, photograph, recipe, or a story about a Willard you'd like to preserve?
Whether it's something you remember or a story that's been passed down, we'd love to hear it.