A new mural honoring one of Warren’s most recognizable landmarks was unveiled Friday at the city’s former street department shop.
The colorful artwork, painted by local art teacher KeyAira Brown, depicts Engine 123, the historic steam locomotive that has welcomed generations of children and families to Warren City Park. Brown teaches art at Brunson Elementary School and Warren Middle School.
Stretching across the building’s large exterior doors, the mural features the locomotive’s black engine, bright red cab and Southern Lumber Company tender beneath a blue sky. Brown worked on the project for several weeks before it was officially revealed during Friday’s ceremony.
Engine 123 has a history extending well beyond its many years at the park. The 4-6-0 “Ten-Wheeler” steam locomotive was built by the Baldwin Locomotive Works in 1907 and was originally intended for the Morelia and Tacambaro Railway in Mexico. It later became part of the Southern Lumber Company’s operations and made trips between Warren and Banks. Southern Lumber Company and the Warren Kiwanis Club moved the locomotive to Warren City Park in November 1955. The engine was later restored and rededicated in June 2012.
Through the decades, the locomotive has become more than a reminder of Bradley County’s railroad and timber history. It has also served as a familiar gathering place for children, families and visitors to Warren City Park.
Warren City Council members Dorothy Henderson and Chanel Hooper attended Friday’s unveiling, along with Charlotte Brown of the Mayor’s Office and other community leaders. Former City Council member and local insurance agent Angela Marshall was also present.
During the ceremony, Hooper spoke about the ability of public art to preserve a community’s story while looking toward its future.
“Art has a unique power to reflect who we are, where we have been and where we are going,” Hooper said.
Hooper thanked the Warren Parks and Recreation Department, the Warren City Council and Mayor Gregg Reep for supporting the project. She described the mural as a true team effort made possible through the cooperation of city officials, employees and community members.
“May this vibrant artwork bring joy to everyone who passes by, inspiring the next generation,” Hooper said.
The mural also gives new life to the former street department shop as the city prepares for the building’s next chapter. The facility is expected to soon become available for rent for community gatherings and other events.
By placing Engine 123 across the building’s doors, the project connects the renovated facility with a beloved piece of Warren’s past while celebrating local creativity and the community’s continued investment in public spaces.
