George Herriman (1880-1944)

George Herriman, the creator of the classic comic strip Krazy Kat. Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons (Public Domain).

George Herriman was an American cartoonist best known for the comic strip Krazy Kat, which ran from 1910 to 1944. Born in New Orleans and raised in Los Angeles, Herriman started as an illustrator before creating his famous strip. Krazy Kat is celebrated for its surreal dialogue, unique landscapes, and innovative layouts, focusing on a love triangle between Krazy Kat, Ignatz Mouse, and Offisa Pupp. Although it had a niche audience, Herriman’s work was praised by intellectuals and supported by media mogul William Randolph Hearst. Herriman was of mixed-race Creole heritage but often passed as white due to the racial climate of his time.

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Early Life and Career
  3. The Creation of Krazy Kat
  4. Themes and Innovations
  5. Reception and Impact
  6. Herriman’s Other Works
  7. Marriage and Children
  8. Illness and Death
  9. Conclusion
  10. FAQs
  11. Sources

Introduction

George Herriman, born in 1880 in New Orleans and raised in Los Angeles, is a key figure in comic strip history. He started as an illustrator but is best known for creating the comic strip Krazy Kat. Running from 1910 to 1944, Krazy Kat featured surreal dialogue, creative page layouts, and a love triangle between Krazy Kat, Ignatz Mouse, and Offisa Pupp. Herriman’s work stood out for its artistic style and emotional depth. Supported by media mogul William Randolph Hearst, Krazy Kat had a lasting impact on comics, influencing many cartoonists with its unique approach and themes.

Early Life and Career

George Joseph Herriman III was born on August 22, 1880, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to George Herriman Jr, a tailor; and Clara Morel, a homemaker, both of mixed-race Creole heritage. He was the oldest of five children. His younger siblings were Henry Walter Herriman, Louisa Elizabeth Herriman, Camilla Herriman, and Imelda Marie Herriman. His background influenced his artistic perspective, though he often downplayed his Black ancestry due to the racial climate of the time. In 1886, due to increasing racial tensions and the rise of the Jim Crow laws in the South, combined with the marginalization George Herriman’s father, George Herriman Jr, felt as a person of color, the Herriman family moved to Los Angeles to seek a safer environment where they could “pass” as white. This move allowed them to avoid the harsh racial discrimination prevalent in the South at the time. Some of his friends called him “The Greek,” but he never openly divulged his background.

George Herriman attended St. Vincent’s College (now Loyola High School) in Los Angeles. He began drawing while he was a student there, and his talent was evident early on. After graduating in 1897, he started working as an illustrator and engraver at the Los Angeles Herald, working on political cartoons and advertisements. In 1900, he moved to New York City, worked as a billboard painter, and began creating cartoon strips.

George Herriman’s Musical Mose (1902), illustrating the challenges of breaking into exclusive professions. Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons (Public Domain).

His first successful comic strip, Musical Mose, was published in 1902 for the New York World. The strip featured a black musician named Mose who traveled around performing various musical acts. Mose often found himself in humorous situations as he tried to impersonate performers of different ethnicities, leading to various mishaps and misunderstandings.

The strip was short-lived, lasting only a few installments, but it showcased Herriman’s early talent for humor and his willingness to explore racial themes, albeit in a satirical manner. Musical Mose also reflected Herriman’s own experiences and observations about race and identity, given his mixed-race heritage.

Herriman shifted from political cartoons to comic strips, creating several short-lived series before launching Krazy Kat in 1910, which became his most well-known work for its unique dialogue, changing landscapes, and creative layouts.

The Creation of Krazy Kat

Hand-colored original of Krazy Kat comic strip from 1922-06-25 by George Herriman. Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons (Public Domain).

Krazy Kat was officially “born” in 1913 when George Herriman introduced the strip in the New York Evening Journal. It quickly gained attention for its unique and endearing characters. The story revolves around Krazy Kat, an androgynous and naïve feline who is hopelessly in love with Ignatz Mouse, a mischievous mouse who constantly throws bricks at Krazy. Despite the violence, Krazy interprets the brick-throwing as a sign of affection. Officer Pupp, a loyal dog policeman, tries to protect Krazy and arrest Ignatz, adding to the comedic dynamics.

Herriman’s artistic style for Krazy Kat was revolutionary. He used playful and vibrant colors, along with surreal and ever-changing landscapes. The backgrounds in the strip often defied traditional comic norms, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that contributed to the whimsical and poetic nature of the story.

Themes and Innovations

Krazy Kat dives into themes of love, conflict, and absurdity through its main characters: Krazy Kat, Ignatz Mouse, and Officer Pupp. At the center of the strip is Krazy’s one-sided love for Ignatz, who shows his affection by throwing bricks at Krazy. Krazy sees this act as a gesture of love, illustrating the complexities and absurdities of relationships. Officer Pupp, the law enforcer, regularly tries to catch Ignatz to stop his mischief, adding humor and conflict to the story.

In a typical scene, Krazy lounges in a field, daydreaming about Ignatz. Ignatz sneaks up and throws a brick at Krazy’s head, which Krazy interprets as a “love token.” Officer Pupp, watching from afar, chases Ignatz to arrest him, but Ignatz usually escapes. This recurring dynamic of Krazy’s love, Ignatz’s mischief, and Officer Pupp’s pursuit creates a playful tension throughout the strip.

George Herriman’s storytelling broke traditional comic strip conventions. He used surreal landscapes that often changed dramatically between panels, creating a dreamlike setting. These backgrounds, filled with abstract shapes and symbolic elements, enhanced the strip’s themes and mood. The unique visuals, combined with Herriman’s lyrical and playful dialogue, gave Krazy Kat its distinct charm.

Herriman’s innovative page layouts also stood out. He often abandoned the typical linear panel structure, arranging panels in creative patterns that guided the reader’s eye in unexpected ways. The panel sizes varied, emphasizing different aspects of the story, and the boundaries between panels were fluid, blending characters and landscapes seamlessly. Herriman’s use of visual puns and wordplay extended into the layouts, reinforcing the humor and surreal nature of the strip.

Overall, Herriman’s approach to Krazy Kat—from its shifting backgrounds to its clever wordplay—offered a blend of visual and linguistic creativity that made the strip unique and memorable.

Reception and Impact

When Krazy Kat first came out, it got mixed reactions. While it had a small but dedicated fan base who appreciated its unique style, it wasn’t as widely popular as other comics of the time. However, critics, artists, and intellectuals liked its innovative storytelling and creative visuals. George Herriman’s work was especially praised for its surreal landscapes and poetic dialogue. Writers like e.e. cummings and Gilbert Seldes were fans, with Seldes even calling it “the most amusing and fantastic and satisfactory work of art produced in America today.” Herriman also received support from influential figures like William Randolph Hearst, who ensured the strip kept running despite its limited mainstream appeal.

Though the strip wasn’t as commercially successful as others like Little Orphan Annie, Krazy Kat gained recognition over time for its artistic qualities. It inspired future creators, including cartoonists like Charles M. Schulz (Peanuts) and Bill Watterson (Calvin and Hobbes), who were influenced by Herriman’s style and storytelling. The strip’s surreal elements and playful language set it apart from more conventional comics. Even Picasso was reportedly a fan, and Herriman’s work continued to impact the comic world long after its original run.

That said, Krazy Kat didn’t connect with everyone. Its avant-garde style, shifting backgrounds, and non-linear storytelling could be confusing for some readers. The language and abstract visuals made it harder for a broader audience to enjoy, and it didn’t generate as much commercial success as other strips. Many newspapers chose to feature comics with wider appeal, leaving Krazy Kat to find its place with a more niche audience.

Over time, Herriman’s work became a key part of the comic world’s evolution. His experimentation with narrative and visuals showed that comic strips could be a serious artistic medium. Today, Krazy Kat is remembered for its creative approach and lasting influence on the comic industry.

Herriman’s Other Works

An illustration from George Herriman’s Family Upstairs, published on August 13, 1910. Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons (Public Domain)

George Herriman’s work extended beyond Krazy Kat, though it remains his most famous creation. Among his other significant works is The Dingbat Family (1910-1916), which was Herriman’s first major comic strip, featuring a family with a variety of eccentric characters. It introduced some characters that would later appear in Krazy Kat. Another notable work is Baron Bean (1916-1919), a comic strip about a wealthy, eccentric character who goes on various adventures. This strip showcased Herriman’s humor and unique storytelling style. Additionally, Stumble Inn (1922-1925) focused on the humorous misadventures of a group of characters staying at a hotel, reflecting Herriman’s inventive layouts and wordplay. Herriman also illustrated Don Marquis’s “Archy and Mehitabel” (1927-1939), adding his artistic touch to Marquis’s whimsical verses about an alley cat and a cockroach.

Herriman’s influence on later comics and cartoonists is profound. His innovative approach to storytelling, visual art, and wordplay inspired many prominent figures in the comic world, including Charles M. Schulz, the creator of Peanuts, who admired Herriman’s ability to blend humor with emotional depth. Bill Watterson, the creator of Calvin and Hobbes, appreciated Herriman’s surreal landscapes and poetic dialogue. Art Spiegelman, known for Maus, was influenced by Herriman’s experimental page layouts and narrative techniques. Robert Crumb, a key figure in underground comix, drew inspiration from Herriman’s unique style and humor, while Chris Ware’s intricate and innovative graphic novels owe a debt to Herriman’s artistic legacy.

Marriage and Children

Wedding photo of George and Mabel Herriman, 1902. Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons (Public Domain).
Photograph of Herriman family. From left to right: Barbara (Bobbie), Mabel, George, Mabel (Toots), 1915. Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons (Public Domain).

George Herriman married Mabel Lillian Bridge on July 7, 1902, in Los Angeles. The couple had two daughters named Mabel (born in 1903) and Barbara May (later Pascal). Mabel Lillian died on September 28, 1931, due to injuries sustained in a car accident. Their daughter, Barbara May, died unexpectedly in 1939 following an operation. She was 31 years old. After the loss of both his wife and daughter, Herriman continued to create his beloved comic strips, including Krazy Kat.

Illness and Death

In his later years, Herriman suffered a variety of health issues, including diabetes and heart problems. He died in his sleep at his home in Los Angeles, California on April 25, 1944. He was 63 years old. He was cremated and his ashes were scattered by airplane over Monument Valley, Arizona, a place he loved and was often depicted in his work. His work on Krazy Kat continued until his death.

“A comic strip is a small theater, and one has to design the set just so.” – George Herriman

Conclusion

George Herriman was an artist whose work still resonates with audiences today. As the creator of Krazy Kat, Herriman brought humor, surrealism, and poetic dialogue together, making it a standout in the world of comics. His unique storytelling, use of color, and constantly changing landscapes set Krazy Kat apart, earning it critical praise and a loyal fan base.

Despite dealing with health issues and the loss of his wife, Herriman remained committed to his art. He continued creating, leaving a lasting influence on many cartoonists, including Charles Schulz and Art Spiegelman. Herriman’s work showcases the power of creativity and the importance of pushing artistic limits.

Today, George Herriman is remembered not just for his contributions to comics but for creating stories that go beyond their time, offering themes that still connect with readers of all ages. His legacy highlights how art can shape and reflect our understanding of the world.

Frequently asked questions about George Herriman

  1. What was George Herriman’s most famous work?
    • George Herriman’s most famous work is the comic strip Krazy Kat, which debuted in 1913 and is celebrated for its innovative storytelling, surreal landscapes, and unique characters.
  2. What were the main themes in “Krazy Kat”?
    • The main themes in Krazy Kat include the complexity and absurdity of love, unrequited affection, conflict, and surreal humor. The comic strip explores these themes through the unique dynamics between Krazy Kat, Ignatz Mouse, and Officer Pupp.
  3. How did Herriman influence modern cartoons?
    • George Herriman influenced modern cartoons through his inventive storytelling, unique visual style, and experimental page layouts in Krazy Kat, inspiring generations of cartoonists like Charles Schulz and Art Spiegelman to push the boundaries of comic art and narrative techniques.
  4. Why is Herriman considered a significant figure in the history of comics?
    • George Herriman is considered a significant figure in the history of comics due to his original storytelling, distinctive visual style, and the groundbreaking use of surrealism and poetic dialogue in his comic strip Krazy Kat, which has had a lasting influence on generations of cartoonists and the evolution of the medium.

Sources

  1. Herriman, George., McDonnell, Patrick., O’Connell, Karen., De Havenon, Georgia Riley. Krazy Kat: The Comic Art of George Herriman. United States: H.N. Abrams, 1986. (Internet Archive)
  2. Herriman, George. Krazy & Ignatz: “a Mice, a Brick, a Lovely Night”: Cataloging the Complete Full-page Comic Strips, 1929-30. United Kingdom: Fantagraphics, 2003.
  3. Herriman, George. Krazy & Ignatz: “love in a Kestle or Love in a Hut”: Convening the Full-page Comic Strips, 1916-1918. United States: Fantagraphics Books, 2010. (Internet Archive)
  4. The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. 1998. “George Herriman | Krazy Kat, Comic Strip, Newspaper Cartoonist.” Encyclopedia Britannica. July 20, 1998. https://www.britannica.com/biography/George-Herriman.
  5. Wikipedia contributors. 2025. “George Herriman.” Wikipedia. January 16, 2025. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Herriman.
  6. Brady, Morgan. 2024. “The Inspirational Career of Krazy Kat Creator George Herriman, Explained.” CBR. December 2, 2024. https://www.cbr.com/krazy-kat-creator-george-herriman-history-career/.
  7. Fikes, Robert. 2021. “George Joseph Herriman (1880-1944) •” January 19, 2021. https://www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/herriman-george-joseph-1880-1944/.
  8. “Krazy — Michael Tisserand.” n.d. Michael Tisserand. https://www.michaeltisserand.com/krazy.
  9. “How Does ‘Musical Mose’ Complicate Our Understanding of Racial Caricature?” n.d. Qiana J. Whitted. https://www.qianawhitted.com/blog/how-does-musical-mose-complicate-our-understanding-of-racialcaricature.
  10. “George Joseph Herriman III (1880-1944) | WikiTree FREE Family Tree.” 1880. August 22, 1880. https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Herriman-56.
  11. “Mabel Lillian (Bridge) Herriman (1881-1931) | WikiTree FREE Family Tree.” 1881. June 30, 1881. https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Bridge-1191.
  12. Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/7966756/george-herriman: accessed January 20, 2025), memorial page for George Herriman (22 Aug 1880–25 Apr 1944), Find a Grave Memorial ID 7966756; Cremated, Ashes scattered; Maintained by Find a Grave.
  13. Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/236157171/mabel_lillian-herriman: accessed January 20, 2025), memorial page for Mabel Lillian Bridge Herriman (30 Jun 1881–28 Sep 1931), Find a Grave Memorial ID 236157171, citing Inglewood Park Cemetery, Inglewood, Los Angeles County, California, USA; Maintained by Díaz-2569 on WikiTree (contributor 46990582).
  14. Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/235163382/barbara-pascal: accessed January 20, 2025), memorial page for Barbara “Bobbie” Herriman Pascal (15 May 1908–14 Nov 1939), Find a Grave Memorial ID 235163382; Burial Details Unknown; Maintained by W Piety (contributor 47945985).

By exploring George Herriman’s life and work, both fans and new readers can better understand the art of cartooning and its ability to reflect on human experiences. Through the playful stories in Krazy Kat and his other works, Herriman’s talent remains influential in the world of comics.

George Herriman (1880-1944) by Chandra Martin is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0