Community members gathered Monday, Sept. 23, to celebrate the official dedication of a new mural that captures the spirit, heritage and agricultural roots of Hermitage.
The colorful mural, painted by Erin Ashcraft of Erin Ashcraft Artistry, now adorns the side of the Clanton Farms building along Highway 63 South. The artwork, guaranteed to last at least 15 years, was inspired by ideas from the community organization Revitalize Hermitage, which compiled a list of symbols representing the town’s farming history and local culture.
Look closely, and the details tell a story: a Hermit—the school mascot—rests proudly on the farmer’s hat, and the FFA emblem is stitched onto the patch of his sleeve, a nod to the town’s connection to education and agriculture.
“Our hope was to create something that reflects who we are and inspires who we want to become,” a Revitalize Hermitage spokesperson said. “This mural isn’t just art—it’s a teaching tool for future generations.”
The project was made possible through a combination of community fundraising and grant support. Revitalize Hermitage raised $10,000 in local funds and received an additional $5,000 grant from the Arkansas Heritage Commission, which also served as the main sponsor.
Formed in 2019 and becoming a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2023, Revitalize Hermitage is dedicated to restoring, beautifying and preserving the town. The organization’s mission is to build community pride, support local businesses, encourage involvement and serve as a catalyst for growth and development.
Over the years, the group has organized a variety of service projects, including stocking the Hermitage Blessing Box, decorating the town for holidays, hosting booths at Hermit Daze and the Fall Festival, recognizing the “Yard of the Month,” cleaning vacant lots, and displaying flags in honor of veterans. The organization also sponsors Keep Arkansas Beautiful events in Hermitage. Future plans include creating a walking track at the city park, complete with benches dedicated to veterans.
Current members of Revitalize Hermitage include Leah McIntyre, Gwen Huitt, Lynda Greene, Bettye McGhee Mann, Ramona Richardson and Tina Ozment Raney. The group welcomes all volunteers who want to make a difference in their community.
