New Rochelle Hopes To Open Norman Rockwell Museum
NEW YORK (WCBS 880) -- New Rochelle served as Norman Rockwell's inspiration for years and now the town is looking to create a museum dedicated to the man who defined Americana.
Jim Killoran, President of the Norman Rockwell Museum of New Rochelle, said ever since the economic crisis the focus is on Main Street, America again.
Jim Killoran talks to WCBS 880's Catherine Cioffi about his plans for the museum
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"There's a move back to appreciating the importance of the average Joe and Jill," Killoran said. "People are hungering for a sense of security and being back in the community again,"
Killoran believes there's been a resurgence in the love of Rockwell's art.
Killoran said the foundation is raising money to buy a building that will house the museum, hopefully on Main Street which Rockwell used as his canvas for 30 years.
"I know people here who posed for him," Killoran said.
Stockbridge, MA and Rutland, VT both have Norman Rockwell museums and Killoran believes New Rochelle is long overdue for its own.
"I'm actually shocked that it hasn't been here before this time," Killoran said.
Rockwell was born in New York City in 1894 and moved to New Rochelle when he was 21.
Would you visit the Norman Rockwell museum if one opened in New Rochelle? Sound off below
