"Thurber's Columbus" Exhibition

From The Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum.

How does our home shape who we are? James Thurber (1894–1961), one of the most popular writers and cartoonists of the mid-twentieth century, grew up in Columbus, Ohio. 

As an adult Thurber moved away from the city, yet his hometown left an indelible mark on his imagination and was a source of inspiration throughout his career.

2019 is the “Year Of Thurber,” marking 125 years since the famous Ohio son was born. Ohio State University Libraries exhibit “Thurber’s Columbus” explores Thurber’s early life and works inspired by his experience here, on display now through August 18th at Thompson Library, where Thurber's archive is held.

Visitors will enjoy Thurber’s original cartoons from The New Yorker, as well as family photos, childhood drawings, and much more. 

This exhibit explores Thurber’s early life, works inspired by his experiences here, and his legacy in Columbus and beyond. 

Curated by Jolie Braun with assistance from Eric J. Johnson.

“It is a great moment for an Ohio writer living far from home when he realizes he has not been forgotten by the state he can’t forget... I am never very far away from Ohio in my thoughts, and the clocks that strike in my dreams are often the clocks of Columbus.” —James Thurber 

Thurber's Columbus
May 18 -  August 18

Exhibit Hours: 11 AM - 5 PM
The Ohio State University
Thompson Library Gallery
1858 Neil Ave. Mall
Columbus, OH 43210
(614) 688-8676
Get Details

Admission is free 

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