Arts and Heritage Center outlines Revolutionary War celebrations, community mural on May 21

Speakers at the public power hour detailed a series of local events tied to statewide Revolution commemorations and asked the city to support interpretive signage for a neighborhood park.

Mary Anne Bigger, executive director of the Arts and Heritage Center, told the council the center began planning in 2024 for a multi-year celebration marking the American Revolution. She said the center has published a web page and brochure highlighting local Revolutionary skirmishes and is hosting lectures, a tea event, and an art exhibit titled “American Dream” for June and July. Bigger invited citizens to a free community mural painting on Thursday, May 21 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., led by local artist Adena Berry; the mural will comprise 49 patriotic-themed squares and remain on display for several years.

Beth Francis, representing the local Daughters of the American Revolution chapter, recommended placing a historical marker at Leroy Hammond Park to explain Colonel Leroy Hammond’s 18th-century role in the region and to connect park visitors with local Revolutionary-era history. “We are looking at the park as a place where a historical marker could be placed which would give that history,” Francis said.

Mayor indicated Leroy Hammond Park and Summerville Park are prioritized within the city’s capital projects list and said the city will form a committee for community input when projects reach the design stage. Citizens were given contact information and encouraged to follow the Arts and Heritage Center’s website and social media for schedules and volunteer opportunities.

What happens next: The Arts and Heritage Center will host the public mural painting on May 21 and continue to promote events via its website and social channels; the city said it will include park planning in the capital project process and reach out to stakeholders when design or committee work begins.