O'Neill Chamber of Commerce building features new mural celebrating community spirit

The Chamber of Commerce building in downtown O'Neill showcases a vibrant new mural that celebrates the town's rich history and heritage.

The mural, featuring iconic images such as General John O'Neill, the famous green horse, a shamrock and more, has been completed by local resident Claire Morrow, a 2019 O'Neill High School graduate and current kindergarten teacher at O'Neill Elementary School.

Morrow views the mural project as a fantastic opportunity to leave her mark on the town she loves.

"Creating this mural has been a great experience for me," said Morrow. "I wanted to contribute something lasting and meaningful to O'Neill, and I'm honored to have been given this chance."

Mike Peterson, former teacher at O'Neill High School and now Holt County Economic Development's project manager, has been trying to get a mural painted in O'Neill for a while.

"Claire was one of my best students," Peterson said. "I asked her to design and paint this mural because I know she does great work and would get it done quickly."

Morrow has created the logo for the Holt County Vistor's Committee as well as redesigned the Holt County flag, winning both contests hosted by Peterson when Morrow was a student in high school.

Peterson envisions this mural as a catalyst for a community-wide initiative throughout Holt County, not just within O'Neill. He hopes the project will inspire other towns and communities in Holt County to celebrate their own unique heritage and stories through public art.

"The goal is to get a mural in each Holt County community," said Peterson.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to take photos with the mural and share them on social media using the hashtag #HoltCountyMurals. This initiative aims to make our communities brighter and more vibrant through the power of art.