The History and the Dream

The Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society started with Dr. Robert Andrew’s dream to feature historic and educational murals around the City of Punta Gorda. Dr. Andrews contacted the Punta Gorda Business Alliance (forerunner of the Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce) in 1993 for help in promoting the idea of murals in the historic downtown district. The proposal was an instant hit with the PGBA Board of Directors.

A committee was formed and through a lot of effort, the Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society was organized in late 1994. Application was made and approved to operate as a 501c(3) tax favored non-profit organization and plans began for the first mural location, theme and artist selection.

The large wall on the south end of what was once the Punta Gorda Mall, located at 115 Tamiami Trial (US 41-North) was identified as a potential site. With support from the mall owner, Wilbur Marvin, painting by the local artist Tom Graham began in January 1995. The mural was finished in September and the dedication took place on October 11, 1995.

In getting City Council approval for this first mural, there was a lot of input from the public regarding the idea of painting murals around town. Some residents were opposed calling it “graffiti” but once the mural was completed, opposition subsided. Subsequent murals brought even more support from the public. Residents now take their guests around town, proudly showing them the murals.

The long term goal of the PGHMS is to continue adding murals to help make Punta Gorda a beautiful and unique community to live in and visit.