A community mural initiative highlighting under-told stories of Westerville history that brought together 11 organizations, 8 artists, 4 businesses, and countless community members received well-deserved honors at an awards ceremony hosted by the Ohio Local History Alliance on Saturday, October 2, 2026.
The America 250 Mural Project is a city-wide public art initiative featuring 12 murals designed to honor stories that shaped Westerville. Designed to generate excitement and spark community conversations, the murals also create a visual representation of history aligning with the themes established by the America 250-Ohio Commission to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States. Topics ranged from agriculture and wetlands to Black veterans and amusement parks, and so much more.
"This has become one of the most impactful initiatives we have been part of because it transforms local history into an engaging, accessible experience that encourages exploration while fostering a deeper appreciation for the people, places, and stories that shaped our city," says Robin Collins, Executive Director for Visit Westerville
"Rather than simply preserving history, the project invites people to interact with it in a fresh and meaningful way, connecting art, education, and place in a format that is accessible to all."
Representatives for the project were proud to accept the Outstanding Achievement Award for Exhibits or Displays presented by Ohio Local History Alliance.
Planning began two and a half years ago through a collaborative partnership between the City of Westerville, Visit Westerville, the Westerville Area Chamber of Commerce, Otterbein University, the Westerville History Museum located inside the Westerville Public Library, and the Westerville Historical Society. A diverse group of eight artists were chosen for their creativity, craftsmanship, and adherence to project themes. Each selected artist received a $1000 commission for every mural designed thanks to sponsorships and grants received by the committee.
Once all the artwork was finalized, The Point at Otterbein University, an innovative makerspace, printed the murals on vinyl and installed them throughout Westerville. Installations included spaces inside and outside, at the library, Roush Hardware, Skip Ivery Insurance, between Jimmy V's and City Hall, and more.
"WARM’s own history is a story of good citizenship in action. WARM began in 1972 when one woman, Almina Smock, saw neighbors in need and dared to act. Almina’s simple act of
compassion grew into a community-wide effort, inspiring local churches and organizations to respond together. That same spirit, ordinary citizens choosing to show up for one another, has carried WARM for more than five decades. It’s why Good Citizens feels less like a theme and more like a mirror held up to our own founding story," shared Sara Acocks, Director of Development & Fundraising for the Westerville Area Resource Ministry (aka WARM)"It connects our present day work to a broader civic lineage, helping people understand that caring for one another isn’t a new initiative in Westerville but rather a tradition stretching back generations."
The murals will remain on display for approximately two years, giving residents and visitors plenty of time to explore all twelve locations.
"Our mission is centered on bringing people together. At COhatch and North High Brewing, we strive to create welcoming spaces where people can connect, celebrate, and build meaningful relationships. Footprints Across Time by Jill Chronister reflects that same spirit by celebrating the traditions and gatherings that have helped shape Westerville's community," shared a representative from COhatch & North High Brewing.
"The joy, conversation, and sense of connection captured in the artwork are reflected in the community experiences happening around it."
Designed as a self-guided tour, the trail encourages participants to move through Westerville while engaging with the themes, artists, and stories represented throughout the collection. Whether someone visits one mural or all twelve, each stop offers a new perspective and a deeper connection to the city.