ORLEANS, Ind. — Community members gathered in downtown Orleans on October 31 to celebrate the dedication of the Magnificent Monon Mural, the striking piece of public art painted by artist Adam Long. The mural, which spans three massive working grain bins, vividly captures the legacy of the historic Monon Railroad that once played a vital role in the town’s development. Attendees also celebrated the unveiling of a donor plaque recognizing the businesses, organizations, and individuals whose support made the mural possible.
The Magnificent Monon Mural represents more than a creative addition to the landscape —it’s a testament to the power of community collaboration and pride. The project brought together local leaders, property owners, and funding partners who shared a vision for honoring Orleans’ past while adding a vibrant new attraction to its downtown.
Skylar Whiteman, Executive Director of Orange County Economic Development, welcomed attendees to the dedication and shared her appreciation for the strong community turnout.
“The number of people here today is a testament to the Orleans community, their support of one another, and their pride in their town,” Whiteman said. “This project shows what can happen when people work together for a shared vision. We’re so grateful to Springer Brothers Farms, the community and business donors, and artist Adam Long for helping make this a reality for the town of Orleans.”
Orleans Town Council member Randy Clark emphasized the teamwork that brought the project to life.
“Not everyone had the same vision for the mural, but we were united in making it happen for the community,” Clark said. “We’re absolutely thrilled with how it turned out.”
Orleans Clerk-Treasurer Robert Henderson shared that the mural was a long-held dream for some members of the community.
“A mural on the grain bins was an idea I’ve had in my mind for many years,” Henderson said. “The end result ties together Orleans’ rich history with the Monon Railroad and our strong farming heritage.”
Artist Adam Long reflected on the support he received from the community during the project.
“The love I received from the community of Orleans has opened the door for so many more opportunities,” Long said. “I’ve never had a response like this before—people stopping to watch me paint or running into me at local gas stations or restaurants and telling me how much they love what I’m doing for their town. It’s been an incredible experience.”
Daniel Springer, of Springer Brothers Farms, expressed pride in supplying the mural’s unconventional canvas. “We are proud to be able to help make this happen for the community,” Springer said.
Long’s design pays homage to the Monon Railroad, often called “The Hoosier Line,” which connected communities across Indiana and served as a lifeline for commerce and travel. By transforming the grain bins into large-scale canvases, the mural reflects both the area’s agricultural and industrial roots. The mural’s location also connects directly to the Monon South Trail, allowing trail users to walk from the trail to the viewing spot and experience the artwork up close.
A plaque at the site lists the names of donors and supporters, ensuring the community’s contributors are recognized for their role in bringing this vision to life.
The Magnificent Monon Mural now stands as a welcoming landmark for Orleans—an artistic reminder of the town’s resilience, history, and collective spirit.