On April 15th, Bedford residents watched in horror as a devastating hailstorm swept through the city. As the grey mist, flooded streets and sirens turned the town into an apocalyptic site, it became evident that the historic heart of Bedford, the buildings that make up the campus surrounding the square, had fallen victim to the storm’s wrath as stain glass windows in the Museum, the Old Church and the Dunham House were shattered.
However, the spirit of this city and its residents is not to be underestimated. From the hail storm came an idea that could only be defined as a Hail Mary Pass. Bedford Schools Foundation board member and business owner, Brett Holycross thought local artists, young and old, would love the chance to display their talent and civic pride by creating giant murals to cover the boarded-up windows, showing everyone that obstacles can be turned into opportunities if a community works together.
Many things stood in the way of the project. Pulling together art teachers, students and parents in the last weeks of school would be challenging, not to mention funding the materials needed for a project of this size and imposing on the city employees who would be required to install the murals during a week in which they are prepping for one of Bedford’s largest events, The Strawberry Festival.
But Brett’s marvelous idea caught fire and before you knew it, everyone was pitching in!
Brett and many of his customers contributed to purchasing the supplies including many gallons of Sherwin Williams exterior house paint, ensuring the fabulous artwork could not be ruined by another storm. Jamie Cole with the Bedford City Schools contacted art teachers and parents who pulled their kids from summer camps to join the project. From Sarah Gnoddie’s Ellenwood Recreation Center to the basement of the community church, where Rick Backo and Tricia Wilms worked their artistic magic leading a team of Bedford artists; students from all grades, mothers, fathers, siblings, city employees and alumni, to create a beautiful array of murals showcasing Bedford landmarks, experiences and self-expression. But this talent would not have seen the light of day if it weren’t for Bedford’s Service Department whose crews went above and beyond to ensure the works of art were meticulously hung by a team including veteran city worker, Joe Vito. Not just once…but twice when the second wave of artwork arrived. All the while, “Bedford’s Own” Tim Taylor, faithfully documented the project on video from beginning to end, ensuring it’s place in Bedford history.
What began as a devastating event turned into a community showcase of resilience and civic spirit. Our beloved Bedford Historical Society is truly overwhelmed and heartened by the unprecedented cooperation with the City of Bedford, The Bedford Schools Foundation, and the school system itself, in setting a new standard for civic and cultural unity.
Thanks to all for reminding us of why we should always “Believe in Bedford, a wonderful place
to live”!
