Wanda Gag’s actual birthday was March 11, but a belated birthday celebration is better than none at all.

Gag was born in New Ulm on March 11, 1893, and would spend her entire childhood in the community. Gag is arguably one of the most famous individuals to come out of New Ulm.

ANESTIMATEIn her life, she was a famous artist, author and printmaker. Two of her books won the Newberry Honors awards. She is best known for writing and illustrating the children’s book “Millions of Cats.” This is the oldest American picture book still in print.

She also translated some of the Grimm fairy tales from German into English. These translations are still cited as some of the most accurate.

Andy Llabvona and Kari Nessler paint cat ornaments at the New Ulm Public Library during the Wanda Gag 130th Birthday Party on Saturday.

The library and Wanda Gag House association take great steps to honor Gag’s birthday each year. This year the library and volunteers from the Wanda Gag House were able to hold a birthday party. In past years, her birthday was celebrated with simple reading and activities, but one student suggested a birthday party should have cake. The celebration has included cupcakes ever since.

Diana Schaefer, with the Wanda Gag House, attended the celebration. She was happy to say that nearly every child in New Ulm is familiar with Wanda Gag. She said every time New Ulm kids see the Wanda Gag House float in a local parade, they get excited.

Schaefer explained that in New Ulm, it is tradition to have the 2nd Grade students visit the Wanda Gag House.

“I think identifying with where you grow up is important,” Schaefer said. Teaching New Ulm kids about Wanda Gag and her life is an important part of their h

Youth Service Librarian Kathryn Tatnall agreed Wanda Gag was important in children’s literature. She described Gag as a pioneer in children’s books. Tatnall said with “Millions of Cats” Gag became the first children’s book writer and illustrator to place artwork and text on the same page.

As a children’s librarian, Tatnall appreciated what Gag did in revolutionizing the kids’ books. Incorporating the text and images was great for both sides of the brain. Children can understand the story through the images or the text and make connections.

Tatnall said Gag managed to open up children’s books and make “a wonderland for their minds.”

It also helps that Gag’s drawings are incredible.

Wanda Gag’s childhood home is located at 226 N. Washington Street and is maintained by the Wanda Gag House Association. The historic home and museum will reopen for tours in late spring. Year-round tours are available by appointment.