Chillicothe — Council heard that a mural effort donated for a recreational trail tunnel is shaping up this week, and book on families involved with the paper mill is also developing.
Councilman Gunner Barnes mentioned in Monday’s council session of November 10th, 2025, that a project to cover offensive graffiti is underway. In September, local artist and downtown organizer Landon Moonstar had offered to paint the the tunnel of the Larry Cox Memorial / Paint Creek Recreational Trail under Adena Road.
Barnes said Moonstar had started it last Saturday, and made it big community event. On his Facebook page, Moonstar joked about it as “Mural Fest 2025.”
Barnes has posted 10 photos of the effort on his page. He said the project should be finished and have an unveiling this coming Saturday, November 15th.
With anxiety about the area’s largest historic employer being shut down, Barnes had also announced a book project in July in conjunction with Jerrod Depugh of Mill City Apparel. Titled “Growing Up in the Shadow of the Stack,” he said it does not have a publication date yet.
In the Facebook announcement by Mill City Apparel: “This collection will explore the stories of generations of mill workers, past and present, through powerful photography and personal memories.
“We’re looking for folks who want to share their stories, their photos, and their pride.”
Hear Barnes in his own words in the below video interview.
