Words and Images by Jenny Lynn Davis
The City of Jasper, Jasper Main Street, the Walker County Arts Alliance, and the Chamber of Commerce of Walker County came together on June 11 at the Jasper Civic Center for “Murals, Mules, & Made in America,” Jasper’s local celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
The event opened with remarks from Jasper Mayor Josh Gates, followed by the posting of the colors and the Pledge of Allegiance by the Jasper Police Department, and the National Anthem, performed by Libby Allred, a theater major at the University of Montevallo.
State Senator Matt Woods addressed attendees, reflecting on the nation’s founding, Walker County’s history, and the community’s role in shaping Alabama and America. He noted Walker County’s legacy in coal mining, timber, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship, as well as Jasper’s connection to the Revolutionary War through its namesake, Sergeant William Jasper.
“This county has produced leaders whose influence reached far beyond our borders. Their legacies remind us that great leadership can come from places just like Walker County,” Woods said. “Likewise, Alabama has left an indelible mark on America. From helping build the nation’s industrial strength to advancing scientific achievements, military service, civil rights, space exploration and innovation, Alabama has repeatedly demonstrated that the future is often forged by people who are willing to work hard and dream big.”
Chamber of Commerce of Walker County President Linda Lewis then introduced the Chamber’s newest community mule statue, Liberty, created in honor of America’s 250 years of independence.
“We hope this project will foster unity, patriotism, and civic engagement. We hope it will encourage reflection on America’s past and present, and inspire community service as we unveil our newest mule into the community,” Lewis said.
As part of the commemoration, Mayor Gates also led a ceremonial planting of a magnolia tree, recognizing the many local partners and volunteers who helped bring the event together.
Jasper Main Street Executive Director Mike Putman shared the meaning behind the forthcoming community mural, which will be installed on the wall of Sam Glover Drugs in downtown Jasper. The mural is intended to symbolize liberty, diversity, hope, and the strength of communities joined together by shared history and purpose. Walker County Arts Alliance Executive Director Kat Murray invited attendees to take part in the mural by painting tiles that will become part of the mural.
The celebration also included patriotic performances from Athletic Arts Center and the Jasper High School Phoenix show choir. WL
