There was a lot of interest in the new mural, entitled Then and Now, unveiled during the opening ceremonies of the 2024 Art on the Waterfront. People were able to enjoy a rest on the benches or shared their thoughts while taking a look at it. Thompson Goddard Photo

CHESTERVILLE – As the opening ceremonies of the 2024 Art on the Waterfront concluded, a new mural was unveiled on the bridge side of the historic Fulton Block.

The work of art which depicted scenes from Chesterville’s past, and present was painted by Winchester artist Carrie Keller.  There are two parts to the mural, one being historical winter scenes from the first mural and on the summer side of the mural are summer scenes from the present era which show scenes of the Meet Me On Main Street event and Art on the Waterfront festival. Interestingly, the first mural is seen on the summer side of the 2024 mural.

Keller explained the new mural was the result of collaboration between the committee, composed of herself, Lion Mark McMillan and SDSG MP Eric Duncan, the Municipality of North Dundas, local service clubs and the Dean family.

Duncan explained in an address before the unveiling how the mural which depicted several winter scenes from the history of the community had been installed 18 years ago and had deteriorated over the years.  He mentioned that there is still information and plaques to be added to the mural, noting that a QR code will provide a link to information on the community, service clubs and businesses.

Financial support for the project was provided by the Rotary Club of Chesterville, the Chesterville and District Lions Club, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 434, the Municipality of North Dundas and from the Mike Dean Memorial Fund.  The Mike Dean Memorial Fund was set up in collaboration with the municipality by the family of Mike Dean following his passing.