ANNISTON — A new community mural featuring hundreds of individually painted tiles was unveiled Saturday at Noble Street Park in downtown Anniston as part of Calhoun County’s observance of America’s 250th birthday.
The mural, titled Pieces of America, combines images representing national history, local history and personal experiences contributed by members of the community. Participants painted individual tiles that were assembled to create the larger public artwork.
Images incorporated into the mural include American presidents George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy, along with cultural and sports figures such as Babe Ruth, Michael Jordan and Beyoncé. The artwork also references significant moments in American history, including the moon landing and the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
Anniston’s history is also represented throughout the mural. Among the local subjects are the Freedom Riders, the city’s history with electricity, local museums and other people, places and events associated with the community.
Other tiles focus on more personal subjects, including childhood memories, pets and people and places meaningful to individual participants.
The mural also includes a tribute to the late Anniston Fire Chief Jeff Waldrep, recognizing his service to the city and his place in the community’s history.
Anniston Mayor Ciara Smith-Roston encouraged residents to visit Noble Street Park and view the individual pieces that make up the finished mural.
“Go take a look at our Noble Street Park! Each tile tells a story, and it’s amazing how our differences and perspectives can come together and make something so beautiful!” Smith-Roston said.
Organizers described the project as an effort to illustrate history through multiple perspectives, combining nationally recognized events with Anniston’s history and the personal experiences of residents.
The project involved participation from community members who painted tiles as well as volunteers and organizations that assisted with planning, construction, installation and Saturday’s unveiling.
The Calhoun County Area Chamber & Visitor’s Center and its America 250 Committee were recognized for their involvement in the mural and other events being planned throughout Calhoun County in connection with the nation’s 250th anniversary.
The City of Anniston’s Public Works team assisted with construction and installation of the mural, while city leaders supported the project and participated in the unveiling. Gina Jones volunteered as photographer for Saturday’s event.
The completed Pieces of America mural is now on display at Noble Street Park, where visitors can view the individual tiles and the larger image they collectively create.
