A facelift may restore glory to an old wall off the Collierville Town Square, and the vision for the space includes the Stars and Stripes.
The suburb’s Historic District Commission on Thursday, April 28, approved a proposal for an American flag mural on West Mulberry near North Center Street. The wall is outside of Hewlett & Dunn Boot and Jean Company’s corner store west of Town Square Park. The mural would say “Collierville” and “Tennessee” on the top and “In God we trust” near the bottom. Red paint will keep the mural set apart from the aged “Golden Flour” sign closer to Walnut Street.
The town has an existing mural in its historic district on Washington Street near North Main Street done by Davey Studios, based in Arlington, Tennessee. Davey will also be responsible for the new artwork. The existing artwork is on the east side of the square; the new mural will be part of the west side.
In line with the district’s character, the flag will look somewhat aged, according to renderings shown in the meeting. The artwork would take up only the part of the wall where old signage is exposed. Charles Hall, building owner and owner of Hewlett & Dunn, said the “Golden Flour” sign was visible as repairs were made to the building.
“I think it’d be a shame to cover that up,” Hall said before the commission asked him to enhance the reminiscent sign.
Commissioner Scott Rozanski said he’d like to see more of that aged sign in its natural state, but he encouraged the board to move forward as the warmer months are the right time to work on the wall.
Hall and John Stamps, town alderman, own the spaces occupying Stamps Real Estate and the boot and apparel shop. However, Main Street Collierville submitted the proposal. The organization promotes Downtown Collierville — aiming to strengthen the square while preserving its historic charm.
The existing art on the east side of Town Square Park is 100 feet long and 14 feet tall. The painting on the Masonic Lodge wall — finished in 2010 — draws from Collierville’s history with silos, cotton fields, a train, the town square and a cannon. It’s a popular photo opportunity among residents and visitors.
Jaime Groce, town planner, told commissioners additional sidewalks may be installed soon for safety due to increased activity. He said the vibrancy of the square continues to draw people to the area. In the summer, many people attend concerts in the area. During the Christmas season, the holiday lights draw people to visit the illuminated park.