Community Members Paint it Forward
Chillicothe, MO — A Saturday morning at the pocket park on Washington Street turned into something much more than a stroll downtown—it became a celebration of history, art, and community. Main Street Chillicothe’s “Paint It Forward” mural fundraiser welcomed friends, families, and neighbors to take part in a unique hands-on experience and support the return of the Graham’s Mill & Bridge mural.
Attendees had the opportunity to make their mark on the wall where the mural will be painted, hear from artist Scott Rule about his creative vision, and learn about the incredible history behind the mural’s location and subject matter. The morning was filled with creativity, and shared appreciation for Chillicothe’s past—all set against the backdrop of the soon-to-be mural wall.
The event not only raised awareness about the years of preservation work that went into preparing the wall at 504 N. Washington Street—it also raised $1,390 in critical funds to help bring the new mural to life. The original mural by Kelly Poling was lost in 2022 due to storm damage and wall deterioration. Since then, Main Street Chillicothe has led a multi-phase preservation plan, ensuring the wall was safe and ready for a new work of art.
Now, thanks to community support and the talents of artist Scott Rule, that vision is becoming a reality. His updated design pays tribute to James Graham’s 1866 stone mill and the iconic covered bridge that once stood nearby—structures that symbolizes growth, connection, and innovation in early Chillicothe.
Though the event has passed, the story is far from over. Main Street Chillicothe is still accepting donations to help complete this meaningful project. To contribute, visit:
🔗 https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/paint-it-forward
Every donation—large or small—helps ensure that Chillicothe’s past continues to inspire future generations through public art.
To learn more about the mural, artist, or Main Street Chillicothe’s revitalization efforts, visit www.downtownchilli.com or follow us @mainstreetchilli on social media.
About Main Street Chillicothe
Main Street Chillicothe is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving, revitalizing, and enhancing downtown Chillicothe. By fostering community pride, supporting small businesses, and celebrating our rich history, we are building a stronger and more vibrant future for our community. For more information or to make a donation, please visit www.downtownchilli.com/partnership/ or contact us at 660-646-4071.
As a Missouri Main Street Accredited program, MAIN STREET CHILLICOTHE is a recognized, leading program among the state network of more than 50 districts and communities who share both a commitment to creating high-quality places and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development.
As a Main Street America Accredited Program, Chillicothe Main Street, Inc. is a recognized leading program among the national network of more than 1,200 neighborhoods and communities who share both a commitment to creating high-quality places and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development. All Main Street America Accredited Programs meet a set of National Accreditation Standard of Performance as outlined by the National Main Street Center.
Special thanks to our current partners, many "Friends of Main Street" supporters, and our volunteers who make it all happen. This place matters and so do you.
