CLOAKED CRUSADER
GEORGE WASHINGTON IN COMICS & POP CULTURE
written and edited by Renee Witterstaetter art by various, cover by Michael Golden
Little Eva Ink
ISBN: 9798889554288
$39.99 from the Francis Tavern Museum Gift Shop

One of the cool things that your humble blogger and Mrs. PopCulteer encountered over the summer was when we made the trek to Harrisburg, PA to meet Roger Bumpass, otherwise known as the voice of Squidward on SpongeBob Squarepants. Roger was loads of fun to meet, but we also got to meet Renee Witterstaetter, a long-time comic book editor and writer who’s worked for Marvel, DC and other comics publishers.

She told us about her book about George Washington in pop culture, and an exhibit at the Francis Tavern Museum in New York, which she guest-curated. The subject matter was so intriguing and her enthusiasm so contagious that we bought the book from her and have enjoyed the heck out of it.

Let me quote from the exhibit website

George Washington’s persona has been showcased in comics and pop culture; in traditional reenactments of famous events; and in appearances in modern times with the likes of Superman, Captain America and other famous heroes. He has become a mythical figure and super hero in his own right—a metaphor for good and justice in these tomes. The comic books and original artwork in this exhibition highlight Washington’s continued relevance to our collective past, present, and future. Original artwork and comics on display will feature pieces by Michael Golden, Arthur Suydam, George Evans, George Perez, Neal Adams, Kurt Swan, Graham Nolan, Jose Marzan, Jr, Daniel Scott, Fred Fredericks, and many more!

I believe the exhibit will wrap up early next year, but even if you can’t make it there in time, you can get this terrific book.

This book is a delight for fans of pop culture and comics, as well as fans of the man who could not tell a lie (in sharp contrast to certain other former presidents).  The profusely-illustraed hardcover shows George Washington depicted on plates and tchochkes and loads of comic book appearances.  There are full color reproductions of comic books from the Golden Age to modern times and George Washington seen on everything from vintage tavern signs to Funko Pops.

Your best bet to get CLOAKED CRUSADER GEORGE WASHINGTON IN COMICS & POP CULTURE is to order it directly from the Francis Tavern Museum, and if you like the idea, be sure to grab the 2025 Calendar, too.  They make great gifts for the father of our country.