Milestone Public Art Project
Stainless steel replica milestones awaiting their artwork, and installation along the National Road in Grantsville
The National Road
The National Road, built between 1811 and 1837, linked the eastern and western states in the first half of the19th century and opened the Ohio River Valley and the Midwest for settlement and commerce. Also known as the Cumberland Road or National Turnpike, the National Road was the first road in U.S. history funded by the federal government. Running from Cumberland, Maryland to Vandalia, Illinois, the road promoted westward expansion, encouraged commerce between the Atlantic colonies and the West, and quite literally paved the way for an interstate highway system.
History of the National Road Milestone
During the construction of the National Road, Congress required that there be distinguishing marks at regular intervals to aid travelers. Thus, milestones were set at 1 mile intervals on the north side of the road during the construction of the National Road. Sadly, most of these milestones have not survived the years. This project replaces some of those milestones creating a historically inspired public art project for the community and visiting tourists to enjoy.
Selecting a Prototype
What is the best material to make replica milestones out of? We asked ourselves that same question and had several different prototypes made, each from a different material. Wood, steel and high density foam (pictured) were all produced.
Stainless steel was selected for the project due to its strength, durability and non-corrosive properties.
Our Partners
The Milestone Public Art Project is made possible through a Maryland State Arts Council grant, and The Garrett County Arts Council, but also through the support of our community partners. The Mountain Maryland Gateway to the West Heritage Area provided a mini-grant that supports The National Road Festival and many of its cooresponding events, activities and entertainment enjoyed throughout the annual celebration.
A call for Artists
As part of the selection process for the Milestone Public Art Project, we conducted a call for artists, inviting anyone and everyone to submit an example of their work along with a concept design of their milestone vision. Three artists were selected through that process. Utilizing a blind jury, artists Misty Kisner, Jay Condon & Sue Caldwell were chosen for this exciting public art project.
Additionally, four students from Northern Middle School were selected from Jenifer Wampler’s advanced art class to design and paint a milestone.