The Westervelt Warner Museum of American Art is operated by the Jack Warner Foundation. In 1884, Warner’s grandfather, Herbert E. Westervelt, founded what is today Tuscaloosa-based Gulf States Paper Corporation. Jack Warner served as CEO and chairman of Gulf States for more than 40 years — leading the company to its current status as one of the nation's largest privately held forest products companies.

The museum’s fabulous 18th, 19th and 20th century art is the culmination of Warner’s more than 40 years of collecting. Through the years, these classic pieces were displayed at locations throughout Tuscaloosa. In 2003, the Westervelt Warner Museum of American Art was established to display the majority of the collection in a common location that allows visitors to truly experience the essence of life in the early days of our Nation as depicted by notable artists.

Warner’s vision for the museum was to showcase his appreciation for beautiful American art along with his reverence for America’s history. As a World War II veteran, Warner wants everyone, especially young people, to be aware of the sacrifices our American forefathers made to build this country. For this reason, much of the art celebrates significant American historical events and figures.

Visit us soon and see why Jack Warner says, “When folks come to see this exhibit, they’re going to feel America.”