BLANCHESTER — ‘The Way It Was’ is the way it is.
For several weeks now Blanchester residents and visitors have been able to step back in time and see the village in another era through its newest mural.
Ron Keith of the Ron Keith Gallery in Blanchester — whose murals include “Chewing the Fat” of men sitting on a park bench at the intersection of Main and Broadway — said he had looked at a couple of photos from the Blanchester Historical Society.
“It was like going back in time to some objects we no longer have — the archway of lights, the old clock on the sidewalk,” he said. “I thought it would be neat to bring back a lot of memories, put something together with photos. I saw the naked wall on the Curless building and came up with a compilation looking north on Broadway. I added some local characters and it all came together.”
He started the mural on May 25 and finished in early July.
The Blanchester native — a 1982 BHS grad — has resided here most of his life, returning to live about 16 years ago.
He loves the town and said he’s received nothing but positive feedback from local residents young and old.
“I have had numerous comments from people who appreciate what I did, bringing back memories of The Way It Was,” he said. “People are interested in seeing more murals if we can get the funding — that’s what’s in the plan.”
Attending the recent dedication were veterans and others who came from Continental Manor in Blanchester. The group included Glenna Reed, Robert Rooks, Robert Ernst and Robert Allen as well as volunteer Archie Arthur and Activity Director Lisa Beach.
“The residents enjoyed seeing the mural. It brought back memories of how the town used to look,” said Beach. “The residents did not cross the street, but for safety sake, watched the ribbon-cutting from the parking lot across the street.
“After the ribbon-cutting, those that were involved came across the street and posed for a group photo with the residents. The residents really appreciated that act of kindness from the town folks.”
Keith added, “I was honored to be able to share the mural with them. They wanted to see the mural and meet me and it continues to bring smiles to people.”
Blanchester Mayor John Carman said the mural adds a nice touch to the village.
He added that he would like to see more murals in the village if they can get proper funding.
“If there were business owners to provide the funds, we’d be up for more murals,” said Carman.
