Holton Jackson County Chamber of Commerce

Jackson County’s murals tell the stories of our people, heritage, landscapes, and community pride. From tributes to local legends and veterans to scenes of the tallgrass prairie and small-town life, each piece adds color and character to our towns.

We invite you to explore these works of art, learn about the artists behind them, and experience the history and heart of Jackson County — one mural at a time.

Delia:

Tribute to Msawa Hale
Artist: Garrett Larson
Installed: 2023
This mural honors Msawa Hale, a nationally recognized Prairie Band Potawatomi singer and drummer, known for the Little Soldier Drum, as well as a Fancy Dancer and Fancy Shawl dancer. The project also included a coordinating bench and a snack shack, both painted to match.
Funded by the Jackson County Tourism Council.

Buffalo Sculpture
Artist: Garrett Larson
Installed: 2023
This striking 16’ x 16’ metal buffalo sculpture is mounted on the west end of the Community Building. The piece celebrates the strength and heritage of the prairie landscape.
Funded by the Jackson County Tourism Council.

Circleville:

Barnes Brothers Mural
Artist: Katie Morris
Installed: 2024
This mural honors Zeke Barnes and Jesse Barnes, including Jesse’s achievement as a pitcher in the 1917 World Series. The project was inspired by a request from Barbara Hutchinson, recognizing the Barnes brothers’ place in baseball history and their connection to Circleville.

Hoyt:

Hoyt City Park Restrooms
Originally designed by Lester Arnold in the 1960s, the restroom murals at Hoyt City Park were later revamped by an unknown artist, preserving the artistic character of the space.

Mayetta:

Railroad Mural
Artist: Lester Arnold (Pottawatomi artist, deceased)
Installed: 1960s
This mural depicts a locomotive near the former railroad tracks, paying tribute to the railroad’s impact on local development and history.

1886 Café Interior Murals
Artist: Lester Arnold
Installed: 1960
Several interior railroad-themed murals inside the 1886 Café continue Arnold’s legacy, reflecting the strong railroad heritage of the area.

Holton:

Eastern Tallgrass Prairie Mural
Artist: Lindsey Kernodle
Installed: 2021
This mural showcases wildlife and native plant species found in eastern Jackson County, including a white-tailed stag, cottontail rabbit, coyotes, an eagle, prairie coneflowers, big bluestem, gamma grass, and other native flora.
Funded by a grant from the Office of Rural Prosperity.

Western Tallgrass Prairie Mural
Artist: Lindsey Kernodle
Installed: 2021
Centered around a buffalo and calf, this mural also features a red-tailed hawk, limestone ledges, and native plants representing the Flint Hills region of western Jackson County.
Funded by a grant from the Office of Rural Prosperity.

Vietnam War Memorial – Danny Petersen
Artist: Sandra Pemberton
Installed: 2022
Located on the back of Tarwater’s Store across from the American Legion, this mural honors Medal of Honor recipient Danny Petersen. The mural was dedicated by the American Legion/VFW Post alongside members of the Petersen family.
Funded by the Jackson County Tourism Council.

Sunflower Doors
Artist: Granddaughter (local artist)
Installed: 2022
Painted on the back doors of the White Law Office, these sunflowers were part of the “Paint Your Backdoor” contest, where the design earned second prize.
Funded by the White family.

Holton Postcard Mural
Artist: Katie Morris
Installed: 2023
Designed in the style of a vintage postcard, this mural features plants and iconic imagery from Jackson County. It is located on Collette Carson’s building on New York Street.
Funded by Collette Carson.

Sunflower Mural – WPA Pool
Artist: Katie Morris
Installed: 2021
Painted at the entrance of the WPA Swimming Pool, this community project features a bold sunflower design laid out and designed by Katie Morris.
Funded by Holton Parks & Rec and the Jackson County Tourism Council.

Prairie Lake – Bluegrass Musicians
Artist: Katie Morris
Installed: 2023
Located on the restroom building near the stage, this mural honors musicians from the “Prairie Pickin’s” Bluegrass Festival and celebrates Jackson County’s musical heritage.
Funded by Holton Parks & Rec and the Jackson County Tourism Council.

Rafter’s Park – Ball Players
Artist: Katie Morris
Installed: 2024
This mural, located on the restroom building near the new ball diamond, celebrates local baseball and the community’s love for the game.
Funded by Holton Parks & Rec and the Jackson County Tourism Council.

Banner Creek Reservoir – Eagles
Artist: Jackson County Arts & Katie Morris
Installed: 2016
This mural depicts eagles nesting at Banner Creek Reservoir, highlighting the natural beauty and wildlife found in Jackson County.

Veteran Mural with Poppies
Artist: Katie Morris
Installed: 2025
This mural features vibrant poppies in honor of local veterans, serving as a lasting tribute to their service and sacrifice.

Interactive Butterfly
Artist: Kendyl Lemon and Whitney Lemon
Installed: 2022
The mural was painted as part of the Paint Your Backdoor contest. It received first prize.
Funded by the Lemon family.