Call to Artists — Muscogee Nation at Central College. One of Twelve Murals Planned for Semi-Quincentennial.
The Westerville History Museum and the City of Westerville invite artists to submit proposals for a mural that highlights the historic connection between Westerville and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. This mural is part of the America 250 Westerville History Mural Project, commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026.
This mural will be one of nine works chosen from artist submissions that bring Westerville’s layered history to life.
The Muscogee Nation at Central College mural will honor two students — William Apueka and Taylor Chissoe — who traveled from Indian Territory (now Oklahoma) to attend Central College in the 1870s through the Muscogee Nation’s Youth-in-the-States program. The program trained Native youth in English and U.S. civil systems as a strategy to protect their nation’s sovereignty and culture from federal encroachment.
Artists are encouraged to include imagery inspired by:
William Apueka and Taylor Chissoe, members of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and early Native students at Central College.
Main Hall (built 1842) and Fairchild Hall (built 1875), which were standing during their time on campus.
Central College Chapel, built in 1870 and still standing, is one of the only original buildings remaining.
The 1872 plat map of Central College, showing its historic layout.
1902 Dawes Enrollment Cards, documenting Apueka and Chissoe’s tribal lineage and families.
The broader impact of the Youth-in-the-States initiative, which sent Indigenous students to colleges across the U.S. to gain skills to serve their communities as leaders, educators, clerks, and advocates.
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. Selected artists will receive a $1,000 commission, with murals to be unveiled in 2026 as part of Westerville’s America 250 celebration.
The Westerville News is a reader-supported publication by Gary Gardiner, a lifelong journalist who believes hyper-local reporting is the future of news. This publication focuses exclusively on Westerville—its local news, influence on Central Ohio, and how surrounding areas shape the community.
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