Pikeville, Tennessee
AARP Livable Communities Grant Award
The City of Pikeville is excited to announce that we have been selected as a recipient of the AARP Livable Communities Grant award in the amount of $12,000. These funds will be used to create a Trail of Tears mural on the wall beside the Main Street Stage, adjacent the ‘Welcome to Pikeville’ mural.
The City of Pikeville is committed to creating a more livable and inclusive community for all residents, and this mural is just one of the many projects aimed at enhancing the quality of life for its citizens. We are looking forward to working with a selected artist, skilled with creating Native American art, and community members to bring this project to life.
This new mural is set to showcase the unique charm and history of Pikeville, celebrating the community’s past, present, and future; and will truly reflect the heart and soul of our city.
The Trail of Tears
This mural will be designed to honor the Trail of Tears as it traversed through Tennessee. This breathtaking masterpiece will capture the essence of resilience and strength, depicting the arduous journey and struggle faced by Native American tribes during their forced relocation.
At the forefront of the mural, will stand a magnificently detailed and prominent warrior headdress, perfectly positioned for visitors to take photos. This headdress will serve as a symbolic representation of our proud Bledsoe County Middle and High School Warriors, acknowledging their tenacity and determination. It invites individuals to step into the shoes of these brave warriors, allowing them to pay homage to both their heritage and the indomitable spirit of the Trail of Tears.
The Trail of Tears mural will serve as a powerful reminder of a painful chapter in American history that has often been overlooked. For individuals who have lived through various societal changes and witnessed the struggles of marginalized communities, this mural can provide perspective and deepen their understanding of the injustices faced by Native Americans. It will offer and opportunity for dialogue and inter-generational learning, as older adults can share their own experiences and encourage empathy and compassion in younger generations.
The Trail of Tears mural will serve as a visual representation of resilience and serves as a testament to the strength and endurance of Native American communities, inspiring older individuals with its message of overcoming adversity.
Watch the Progress…
We are excited to showcase the ongoing progress of the Trail of Tears mural right here on our website. Be sure to check back frequently for updates as our talented artists begin to work tirelessly to bring this important piece of history to life.
Follow along as we capture the evolution of this powerful mural and join us in commemorating the journey of the Cherokee people on the Trail of Tears.
Stay tuned for more updates and be a part of this meaning project!
City of Pikeville25 Municipal Drive
Pikeville, Tennessee 37367
