Village’s history comes alive: New mural depicts the history of Florence

Published: 07-24-2023 8:05 PM

NORTHAMPTON — After months of work, a new mural in Florence depicting the village’s storied and diverse history is nearing completion.

The mural, which measures 5 feet by 20 feet and is being painted on the side of the Florence Paint & Decorating Center, traces the history of Florence from depictions of Indigenous peoples to the modern landmarks such as Florence Diner and the Bombyx Center. Called “Action: A History of Florence,” the mural was created by Rochelle Shicoff, an artist who splits her time between Florence and New York City.

The mural was approved by the Northampton Arts Council last September. Shicoff worked with a design team for several sessions at the Swift River Park pavilion in Belchertown to compose the mural. She also researched the history of the village, which has been the home of notable abolitionists Sojourner Truth, David Ruggles and Lydia Maria Child, as well as the Mill River Flood in 1874. She said she interviewed writers, historians and Indigenous elders, as well as reviewed books and pamphlets detailing the history of Florence.

“There was extensive research, because there’s a lot of history,” Shicoff said. “It’s a very loose timeline, but Florence has a formidable past.”

Local painters and community members in Florence have worked to bring the mural to life. Painters worked on the mural last weekend, and Shicoff hopes to finish it up this weekend, weather permitting.

A dedication ceremony is planned for September to mark the completion of the mural, and written acknowledgements of everyone who helped contribute to the painting will also be displayed on the building.

“I consider it a gift to the city,” Shicoff said.

Funding for the project was provided by Florence Bank and the Northampton Arts Council, along with a grant from the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts. Shicoff says she plans to hold an additional fundraiser for the mural.

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