All 55 counties invited to showcase local heritage through public art
Governor Patrick Morrisey launched the America250 Mural Project – a statewide initiative designed to celebrate West Virginia’s rich local and national heritage through hand-painted murals. As part of President Trump’s year-long tribute to our nation’s founding, West Virginia proudly becomes the first state in the country to create a statewide America’s 250th mural trail of new and original works by providing funding to each of its counties for this historic project.
“West Virginia‘s story is one worth telling, and I can’t think of a better time to share it than during the year of America’s 250th birthday,” said Gov. Patrick Morrisey. “I’m excited to join President Trump in celebrating this important milestone in our country’s history. I encourage each of our 55 counties to participate in this project and help us bring even more people to our shining state in the mountains.”
In support of the celebration of American independence, the West Virginia Department of Tourism will award each county a $5,000 grant to help cover the costs of materials and artist fees. Murals completed by Apr. 1 will be included in a statewide mural launch launching in the spring of 2026 to celebrate America’s independence.
“We’re thrilled to welcome every county to play a part in this meaningful celebration and can’t wait to see how each community brings its own unique voice to this legacy project,” said West Virginia Department of Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. “From natural beauty to deep cultural roots, these murals will display all that makes West Virginia truly Almost Heaven.”
These grants are made possible through a partnership agreement with the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and are funded by both the West Virginia Department of Tourism and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Additional information and next steps will be provided by the State Arts Office to County Commissions this week. Communities ready to get started or local artists interested in designing a mural are encouraged to visit wvtourism.com/250murals.
