The Centerburg Historical Mural in Photos

I’m a sucker for public art. I love artsy sculptures, roadside attractions and murals painted on the sides of buildings. Public art is such a wonderful way to spruce up a town and breathe new life into a community. And as I learned in Bucyrus last year, there’s often more to a mural than a pretty picture. The murals often symbolize something important or tell the history of the community.

I also enjoy traveling with those that understand my appreciation. Seeking out the murals was not on my agenda when I passed through Centerburg with Laura from Far Flung Travels, but she assured me we had 10- minutes to spare before our next appointment. Plenty of time to snap a few photos and read the plaques that shared a brief history of the town. How could I resist?

The Centerburg Historical Mural, dedicated in November 2013, was painted by local artist Rick Van Horn. The mural, which faces a public parking lot, showcase four scenes depicting life from 1890 to 1930 in Centerburg.

In the late 1800’s, Centerburg was popular livery stop for stage coaches traveling to the state capital. The town had two hotels and a restaurant. The two gentleman crossing the street are based on Wilbur and Orrville Wright.

The arrival of the railroad boosted the economy in Centerburg. Primarily passenger and some freight trains, the tracks were active until the 1970’s. Today the tracks are part of the Heart of Ohio bike trail.

The unusual traffic light was the only traffic light in town for a number of years. According to the information plaque, the unusual shape and style is remembered fondly by many.

The final mural shows the filling station where menfolk would gather to discuss their days. The gas station is long gone and the lot where it once stood is the location where the mural is today.

Interested in learning about more Ohio attractions? Check out my expanding Ohio bucket list for ideas- and don’t forget to check out the comments. You’ll have more ideas than you’ll know what to do with.