Wilson, NC – The Oliver Nestus Freeman Round House and African American Museum, in partnership with the Town of Elm City and Wilson Arts are pleased to invite the public to attend a ribbon cutting for the recently completed Coach Harvey Reid, Jr. mural by artist Max Dowdle.
The ribbon cutting ceremony will be hosted by the Wilson Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, December 12 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at 101 W Main Street, Elm City, NC 27822.
The mural celebrates Elm City’s rich basketball history and the remarkable achievements of Coach Harvey Reid Jr., a Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer. Over his 42-year coaching career, Reid, who also served as a math teacher and athletic director, became North Carolina’s all-time winningest coach according to the North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA), with an impressive record of 816 victories and a 69-game winning streak. His profound impact as a mentor and educator in Elm City remains a source of community pride, even decades after his passing in 1991.
Artist Max Dowdle was selected from a competitive pool of applicants, with artists applying from as far away as Hawaii. This marks Dowdle’s second major mural project in the region, following his work last year on the African American Music Trail mural in downtown Wilson. His works are known for integrating local stories and community involvement to create lasting visual impacts.
“I am extremely honored as Mayor of the Town of Elm City, to have our town chosen to receive such a glimmer of hope that rides in on the brush strokes of Max, the partnership of Wilson Arts and the Oliver Nestus Freeman Round House Museum, and the generosity of the property owner, Russell Michael,” said Mayor Moore of Elm City.
“This mural is a tribute not only to Coach Reid’s athletic accomplishments but also to his lasting influence as a mentor who shaped the lives of countless students,” added Hardison.
Funding for the mural project was provided by the North Carolina Arts Council through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, designated to support public art initiatives across the state.
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About Wilson Arts:
Since 1967, Wilson Arts has been dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for Wilson County residents by serving as a hub for enriching, educational, and entertaining artistic experiences. Through gallery exhibits, performances, arts education, and creative events, Wilson Arts plays a central role in supporting the arts community. Learn more at www.wilsonarts.com.
About the Oliver Nestus Freeman Round House and African American Museum:
Opened in 2001, the Oliver Nestus Freeman Round House Museum is committed to preserving and showcasing African-American history, art, and culture. The museum serves as an educational resource for the community and the region, increasing awareness of African-American contributions to society.
About the Town of Elm City:
Elm City is a small, close-knit town located along Highway 301 between Wilson and Rocky Mount, NC. With a population of approximately 1,300, Elm City prides itself on being a welcoming community where neighbors know each other by name. Visitors are always encouraged to stop by and experience the charm of our town.
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