Call to Artists: Honoring Westerville’s Black War Veterans. One of Twelve Murals Planned For Semi-Quincentennial.
The City of Westerville invites artists to submit proposals for a mural honoring Black men and women who have served in the U.S. armed forces, part of the America 250 Westerville History Mural Project celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026.
This mural is one of nine commissioned from artist proposals to help tell Westerville’s story through art, memory, and local history. It is part of a larger America 250 project that will feature 12 murals in total, including three by local artists.
The Black War Veterans mural will recognize generations of service by residents whose courage, skill, and perseverance helped shape the nation’s military history, from the Civil War through Vietnam.
William Perry Milton (Civil War) fought in the 54th Massachusetts Infantry—the same regiment depicted in Glory. He was wounded by a gunshot to the lung, survived, and reenlisted.
Andrew Coble and Walter Thomas (Spanish-American War) served as Buffalo Soldiers.
Carl Sunderland and Lonnie Ayers (World War I) worked in the 802nd Pioneer Infantry and the 317th Engineers, building railroads and trenches under fire in France.
Jack Dempsey Foster (World War II) trained in ship repair at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton, Washington, where crews restored Pacific Fleet vessels.
Norman Wesley Tarpley (Vietnam War) served in the 101st Airborne Division and was killed in action. Three of his siblings—including a sister—also served.
Artists are encouraged to explore themes of duty, sacrifice, equality, and perseverance, reflecting both the hardships and the heroism of these veterans and others who followed them.
Reference materials include:
Storming Fort Wagner (1890 depiction of the 54th Massachusetts)
802nd Pioneers at Camp Sherman (1918)
317th Engineers at Camp Sherman (1918)
Puget Sound Navy Yard (ca. 1940)
Artists can access all information, including reference materials, photos, and submission guidelines, through the RFP at https://www.visitwesterville.org/250-2/.
Submissions are open through December 1, 2025. Each selected artist will receive a $1,000 commission, with the murals unveiled in 2026 as part of Westerville’s America 250 celebration.
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