Main Street Morgantown to Dedicate Wall Street Mural in Historic Downtown

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Main Street Morgantown will host an official mural dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony this Friday, May 1 at 4 p.m. celebrating the completion of the Historic Mural Project at Wall Street in Historic Downtown Morgantown.

Created by West Virginia artist Blake Wheeler, the mural spans nearly 900 square-feet of Wall Street Alley between High and Chestnut Streets, transforming what was once a plain alley into a permanent public art landmark honoring Morgantown’s rich history and community identity.

Inspired by historical archives and notable Morgantown figures, the mural tells the story of Morgantown through imagery reflecting the city’s industrial roots, entertainment culture and the people and moments that shaped the community.

As part of America250, the mural serves as Monongalia County’s stop on West Virginia’s statewide mural trail spanning all 55 counties. The initiative highlights local heritage and culture through new public art installations across the state ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary.

The Historic Mural Project represents nearly two years of planning and collaboration. Main Street Morgantown partnered with the owner of the Historic Morgan Theater Building to facilitate the artist selection and final design process, which included 59 artist applications from multiple states, public input sessions and support from community partners, sponsors and donors.

The project was supported through a combination of state investment, organizational partnerships, business support and community contributions. The Historic Mural Project reflects what can happen when artists, property owners, organizations, businesses, donors and community leaders come together to invest in Downtown Morgantown.

“One of the things that makes Morgantown special is how deeply people care about this community and its history,” said Andrew White, Main Street Morgantown Board President. “Seeing so many individuals and organizations come together to support this project has been incredibly meaningful, and I hope this mural becomes something people feel proud to show off and share with others for years to come.”

The dedication ceremony also serves as the kickoff to Historic Preservation Month, a nationally recognized initiative emphasizing the importance of preserving built environments and investing in the stories and places that define communities.

The project is part of Main Street Morgantown’s broader Alley Revitalization Initiative, which uses public art, beautification and placemaking improvements to create more welcoming and attractive downtown spaces.

Community members are invited to attend the dedication ceremony and experience the mural firsthand.

To learn more about the mural project, artist and community supporters, visit: https://morgantownpartnership.com/main-street-morgantown/alley-revitalization/ 

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