Unknown Rockwell A Portrait of Two American Families

by Nan O'Brien, James A. Edgerton

"The Unknown A Portrait Of Two American Families" is the personal memoirs of James "Buddy" Edgerton, Norman Rockwell's neighbor in West Arlington, Vermont, for 14 years, and a frequent Rockwell model, as well as best friend with the Rockwell sons. This book was written with the full support of the Norman Rockwell Family and the Norman Rockwell Family Agency, the only book written to date by a non-family member to accurately reflect the life that Norman Rockwell lived and captured in his art during the most prolific time of his career. Soon to be a major motion picture (Spring 2015), "The Unknown Rockwell" is authentic, moving, poignant, and provides intimate details of the amazing friendship between the Rockwell and Edgerton families. Beautifully written by co-authors James "Buddy" Edgerton and Nan O'Brien, it contains personal family photographs of the families, as well as modeling photos and the illustrations that resulted. "The Unknown Rockwell" is the authentic story of two families tied by life and friendship in rural Vermont in the 1930s and 1940s, and the man who America regards as the pre-eminent 20th Century American artist. The Foreword is written by the legendary Dick Clark.

Genres: Art

288 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[The Hobbit · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Buddy Edgarton was 13-years-old, Norman Rockwell and his family moved into the house next door in West Arlington, Vermont. No one could have predicted the strong friendship that would develop between the well-educated, city-raised Rockwells and the farming Edgartons. Norman's son Peter became Buddy's best friend and his other two boys were always welcome in the Edgarton's home. Mary Rockwell, Norman's wife, enjoyed having Joy and Ardis Edgarton, Buddy's younger sisters, help her with chores. The Rockwells were like second parents to Buddy and his sisters, and his parents loved the Rockwell boys as much as their own children.

One of the most exciting things about living next to Norman was his modeling jobs. He was always looking for local citizens to be photographed in costumes and poses the artist would turn into his illustrations. Buddy would get $5.00 for posing for Rockwell and his photographer. He had the distinction of being the first model in Rockwell's West Arlington studio and the last when the Rockwell's moved to Stockbridge so Mary could be nearer the medical care she needed. Buddy describes the neighbors who posed for some of Rockwell's most famous paintings.

This is a feel-good story that reveals a humble side and the generosity of the world famous artist. At the same time, Buddy Edgarton reveals what life was like on a Vermont farm during the Depression and World War II, and how Norman and Mary Rockwell shaped his life for the better.

[Ev · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read most everything I can possibly get my hands on when it comes to Rockwell. Heck, my son’s middle name is Rockwell! Every story takes me to a place where a simple life, good people, beautiful land, hard work and a special love for one another — make art. Rockwell’s story is incredible, and to read his story from Buddy’s perspective; to read about Buddy’s life... I couldn’t stop reading. I wish I could read more.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book caught my eye when I recently visited the Rockwell Museum. I found this inside look at the daily life of Rockwell to be extremely fascinating. I connected with it in an intimate way since I also grew up in a small, rural town where my father had the same profession as the author. Anyone who wants to learn of a quieter, moral time and place will enjoy this immensely. The book is difficult to locate so I recommend that you visit the Rockwell Museum website and purchase from the bookstore. There are not many library copies around the country; however there is a copy at the Smithsonian Institution. What better recommendation can there be than that!

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just loved it. I have a family connection to the author, but I think anyone interested in Rockwell and/or rural Vermont life would enjoy this book.