Walk With Me - Historical Murals Part 2 (Olsen Block)
This town I consider home has a rich history of immigrants pioneering this north west island. From rail owners to rum runners, Croatian fishermen to illegal Chinese workers, competing local tribes to a Pig War, stowaways to visionary leaders; the fabric of this town is woven tight by all of the stories. We are lucky to have a talented local artist by the name of Bill Mitchell who is impassioned by this history. He started a project in 1984 to preserve the characters and tales by way of hand painted murals. His house is a living museum which he plans to donate to the city upon his death. Take a walk with me as I show you a history of this town.
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These murals are on what is called the "Olsen Block". The Olsen Building was built in 1902 by Alfred Olsen - he was also the operator of the Skagit Saloon. In 1902 a fire destroyed all of the buildings on this block, the Olsen Building was then erected in phases. The building originally hosted 2 bars, 1 pool hall and a storage area for Marine Supply and Hardware - a testament to the culture of this seafaring pioneer town.
Learn more about me by reading my Introduction Post
Historical Murals so beautiful <3
Thank you :)
@lyndsaybowes - Part 2 for your viewing pleasure :)
These murals seem to pop off of the wall. He has an original technique. Thanks for sharing.
I love when a town puts art on it's streets especially meaningful art. One of the small towns that I go through regularly (Sultan) has a massive 3-part mural honoring and memorializing their firefighters. I couldn't find a really good pic online. This one is pretty washed out... They just repainted it this year and I believe it is well worth having it repainted.
(click to enlarge)
That is a great mural :) and I had no idea that we were so close!
Practically neighbors!
Maybe a NW Washington Steemit gathering needs to be organized :)