Newton's Unique History
As told through the images included on the Newton Historical Mural
THE DESIGN: HOW & WHY?
A diverse group of Newton residents gathered to express what interesting elements would make a fascinating piece of artwork for downtown Newton. The desire of the design would be an iconic image to capture and communicate "Newton’s Unique History." Newton Murals & Arts Project commissioned local graphic artist, Andrea Braker, to compile their ideas into one integrated artwork suitable for a large scale mural. She also collaborated with the organizations "We Are Newton" (Newton Flag Symbol & Newton Cityscape by Ben Meier) and NMAP artist, Jennifer Weigel (Meadowlark). The final work is a beautiful representation of Newton that we believe will excite our citizens to take personal pride in "Newton’s Unique History!" Newton Murals & Arts Project committed to completing this large scale mural through the efforts of our many volunteers. For efficiency and longevity, the massive artwork was assembled as a grid and fastened together before being hung on its new home: a highly visible, easily accessible area for locals and visitors to enjoy.
Natural History
The artwork features the western meadowlark, our state bird, native tallgrass prairie flowers, the blazing midwest sun and the forceful Kansas wind. The natural history elements represented here can be further explored by a trip to our own Kauffman Museum in North Newton.
Long-Lost & Recent History
The mural melds both long-lost historical events such as The Gunfight at Hyde Park (1871) and modern elements like the Blue Sky Sculpture (2001) and the Newton Flag (2018). Visitors to the mural will be encouraged to explore more of our local history and landmarks such as the Harvey County Historical Museum and our other Historical Districts.
Westward Expansion History
With the crossing of the Chisholm Trail and the Santa Fe Railroad, Newton became a popular stop on the map of westward expansion. Fred Harvey, known for his train station dining rooms, empowered women of the era, known as the Harvey Girls, to live and work as far west as their heart desired. He also established his primary farm and beverage processing plant right here in Newton to service the dining cars and stations along the Santa Fe Railroad across the US.
