While being outside, I found myself on a gravel road with some grass growing underneath the pebbles. A large wall with paintings on display outside. While looking at the paintings on a sunny evening, I noticed the historical events that the paintings were based on. These concrete walls have a strong presence even though they might be hidden away from the average person driving in a car.
The first painting I noticed was the International Association of Bridges, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers. This image displayed a wonderful painting that featured a person hard at work with a construction job. This work is what built the bridges which provided more travel and commerce to the area. The Mammoth Plant in Portsmouth has a history of being purchased and sold throughout it's time.
After looking at the painting, my eyes noticed another detailed description of words. It was a tribute to organized labor. The painting also displayed a bird in a construction uniform standing on an iron beam. Beneath that image more text, “This set of murals is dedicated to the working class members of our community.” This was painted by Brett Chigoy, Robert Dafford, Herb Roe, Mike Doherty, Justin Montovon and Chase Innes.
Continuing to look on the wall, there were even more paintings. Teamsters Local 505 with a truck driver. The next image is Operating Engineers Local 18. Right after that one was an image of two people digging in the dirt. I wasn't sure if the people were in a cave or just a dark area.
The flood wall then stopped at the end of the sidewalk. The street had a few cars parked on the side of the road and a motorcycle parked on the side too. The evening sun really made the street look wonderful in the evening. Crossing the street was a breeze, and more artwork was crafted on the wall. This section featured sports athletes, a man playing golf, and a woman enjoying exciting river time fun. This artwork is a positive illustration of events to appreciate. This flood wall combines arts, history and is something to be seen in the present.
I thought I had seen everything until I noticed another stand featuring information about the murals. There was also a QR code that can be scanned for more digital education! These mural painting on the wall are a tribute to the local workers who sacrificed so much to help create a better future for themselves and their children. The determination and effort that each person put into this work is a living memory. People visiting will enjoy learning about the historical events that highlight innovation, sacrifice, and progress through times of uncertainty.
