The Rocky Mount Railroad Museum originated as an idea in 2009 and materialized into a non-profit reality in December 2010. The museum defines its Mission as a resolution:
• To preserve the historic and economic impact of the railroad industry on the development of Rocky Mount.
• To provide an entertaining and educational experience of railroading through model railroad layouts.
• To honor and recognize local citizens who worked in the railroad industry.
The Rocky Mount Railroad Museum president, Joyce Edwards Dantzler, said over the past three years, the museum has endeavored to accomplish these ideals with great zeal.“The museum members realize that creating a museum from dreams and principles is an undertaking that requires a community of idealistic train enthusiasts, hobbyists, railroad industry workers, financiers, local railroad historians, and visionaries,” said Dantzler.
All of the above reasons compelled the museum to approach John Gay, Art Teacher at NCHS, and his Art Club members, Zach Tyner, Hannah Sasser, Grayson Harris, JeTijah Smith, Dillon Parker, Alyssa Sullivan, Cortney Morley, and Kristen Narron, for a special project.
The museum desired to have a mural painted to accompany The Rocky Mount Railroad Museum Christmas Display. The display is located at The Golden East Mall in Rocky Mount during the month of December.
Dantzler first mentioned the idea of the mural to NCHS Principal, Gail Powers.
“Mrs. Powers also thought that the mural was an excellent idea and suggested that we reach out to Mr. Gay and the art students.” said Dantzler. “Fortunately for the museum, Mr. Gay was immediately receptive to the idea, as were his art club members.”
The beautiful mural that The Rocky Mount Railroad Museum will display during the Christmas Holidays and on other occasions will be commemorated to the fine student artists who donated their time and talents, and most importantly to Tony Howe. Howe is the artist whose print was graciously provided to the museum for inspiration. The mural rendering done by the NCHS student artists depicts the beauty of the Atlantic Coast Line Champion E7 1951 Florida Print along with the renovated Rocky Mount Train Station and platform shelter.
Dantzler said she hopes those who visit the shopping mall during the holiday season will take a moment to stop and appreciate the mural.
“Everyone will enjoy gazing at this magnificent creation and will envision themselves riding away on The Champion in a tranquil state of mind to the exotic places of their dreams,” said Dantzler. All Aboard!”
The Golden East Mall will feature the mural and display through December 31.
