Grammy Writes

Mural at the Mill

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A 126-year-old grain elevator in Salina, KS has become a unique example of public art. The artwork, called “The Mural at the Mill”, was completed by Guido Van Helten of Australia. Van Helten has done similar projects all over the world. After spending time in the community, he chose to depict children at play for the project because he felt Salina was a great place to raise a family.

The mural was placed on the H.D. Lee Flour Mill, a 100-foot tall structure built in 1898. The mill’s original owner, Henry David Lee, also ran a mercantile store. In 1913, Lee produced and sold a denim overall called Lee Union-Alls – which was an immediate success. The company today is commonly known as Lee Jeans.

Across the street from the mural-wrapped elevator is a beautiful limestone building dating back to 1887. The historic stone structure was built by the Missouri Pacific Railroad and served as a depot for both freight and passengers until the Union depot was built in 1912. It currently houses offices.

The depot site also contains a chiseled cross NGS benchmark. These permanent benchmarks were of significant value in early surveying and mapping efforts.

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As you approach the old stone depot, the artistic elevator can be seen in the background. I think the two make an impressive photo combination!

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For Ragtag Daily Prompt: Approach

22 comments

  5. For a split second, I thought it was taken in Australia! I have a blogger friend from Australia who posts quite a lot about the Silo Art Movement. Therefore I’ve seen my fair share of staggering murals painted on silos and water towers. Thanks for sharing, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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