by Barbara Jenkins, Multimedia Coordinator 

Willie Wiredhand, the beloved mascot of electric cooperatives across the world, is celebrating his 75th birthday on Oct. 30.

“Born” in 1950 by the hand of artist Andrew “Drew” McClay, Willie quickly became the face of cooperative power. In 1951, members of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) voted him the official mascot, and he has proudly served as an ambassador ever since. 

Every detail of Willie’s design reflected the promise of rural electricity: his head is a light socket, his nose a push button, his lower body an electric plug, and his frame a bundle of wires. 

He was described as a “friendly and inspirational golden boy who symbolizes dependable, local, consumer-owned electricity.” 

During his first two decades, Willie became a household name. He appeared in comic books, represented rural cooperatives in Washington, D.C., and even met national leaders, including Sen. John F. Kennedy.

By the 1970s and 1980s, however, his popularity declined as marketing trends shifted.

In the early 2000s, cooperative campaigns began  bringing Willie back into the spotlight.

At Arkansas Valley Electric, his role was elevated even further. Willie was integrated into the cooperative’s official logo, becoming a visual staple for more than 20 years.

Today, his image can be found on everything from apparel and advertisements to trucks and signage, making him not only a historic figure but also a lasting part of the AVECC identity.

Do you remember seeing Willie Wiredhand throughout the years? Reach out on our Facebook page at @MyEnergyAVECC and share your favorite Willie Wiredhand memories!