Morris County Launches Traveling Mural for 250th Anniversary

The Morris County 250th Celebrations Committee, in partnership with the Morris County Tourism Bureau and the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, announced this week the launch of the Morris County 250th Traveling Mural, an interactive public art initiative designed to celebrate the people, places and events that have shaped Morris County over the past 250 years.

Created by artist Dan Fenelon, the mural serves as a visual representation of Morris County’s history and development, tracing its evolution from the Revolutionary War era through present day. The project is part of Morris County’s ongoing efforts to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary and engage residents through educational, cultural and community-based initiatives in celebrating the birth of the nation.

“This mural creates an opportunity for residents to explore Morris County’s history through a different lens. By combining art and storytelling, the project helps highlight the people, places and events that shaped the county’s past, while allowing the community to be a part of the celebration both now and in the future,” said Amanda Broschart, director of the Morris County Heritage Commission.

The mural features imagery inspired by Morris County’s historical and cultural heritage, including Washington’s Headquarters and Jockey Hollow, early colonial life, agriculture, iron mining, transportation, arts and culture, open space preservation, recreation and the communities that continue to shape the county today.

“We are proud to preserve and celebrate the stories that made our county what it is today. This project combines history, education and creativity in a fun way that connects current residents with those who lived here 250 years ago. When completed, the mural will be a special 2026 artifact we pass on to those who carry our county’s legacy forward,” said Commissioner Christine Myers. 

The Traveling Mural was officially unveiled during the Morris County Patriots Ball at Morristown National Historical Park, where attendees received the first public look at the evolving art installation as part of Morris County’s 250^th Anniversary programming.

As the mural travels throughout towns across Morris County, residents and visitors will have opportunities to contribute directly to the project by painting sections of the mural, creating a collaborative project that will continue to evolve with each appearance.

Upcoming appearances for the Traveling Mural include the annual Fishawack Festival in Chatham Borough on June 6 and at the Morris County Library on July 7, where Fenelon and fellow artist Kadie Dempsey will discuss the creative process and the historical inspiration behind the project.

“The Traveling Mural is really about bringing people together through art, history and shared community pride,” said Sarah Neibart, executive director of Morris County’s 250th Celebrations Committee. “One of the most exciting parts of this project is that residents themselves become part of the artwork and the story. It’s interactive, educational and something families and communities can experience together.”

“The Semiquincentennial offers an opportunity to recognize Morris County’s role in our nation’s history while bringing residents together through meaningful community experiences,” said Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw. “The Traveling Mural creates a unique way for people of all ages to participate in the celebration and contribute to a project that reflects our shared heritage.”

The project began with a community visioning session held on March 4th at the Morris Museum, facilitated by Fenelon and Dempsey. The session brought together local 250^thstakeholders to share ideas and perspectives on how the mural should reflect Morris County’s unique role in the nation’s history and its vision for the future. Feedback gathered during the session helped guide the mural’s design. 

Fenelon said the project is intended to reflect both Morris County’s historic legacy and its continued spirit of creativity and connection.

“This mural is meant to celebrate the energy, resilience and history of Morris County while allowing the community to physically contribute to the artwork itself,” said Fenelon. “Every brushstroke added by a resident becomes part of the larger story.”

The Morris County 250th Celebrations Committee is continuing to schedule additional appearances for the Traveling Mural throughout the county and encourages families, students and community organizations to stop by, pick up a paintbrush and be a part of Morris County history.