Happy Birthday, Joplin!

Happy Birthday, Joplin!

2:30 p.m. Thursday, March 23, 2023:

The celebration will begin at 2:30 p.m.in the City Council Chambers on the 5th floor of City Hall, 602 S. Main Street.

Missouri’s greatest 20th-century painter, Thomas Hart Benton, began his career as a professional artist in Joplin, Missouri. Nearly seven decades later and in his eighties the artist returned to present his mural Joplin at the Turn of Century – 1896-1906 to Joplin for its 100th Birthday.

This year, for Joplin’s Sesquicentennial celebration, local historian Brad Belk will outline Benton’s teenage days as a sketch artist for the Joplin American newspaper. He’ll also reveal the fascinating story of his everlasting contribution to the City of Joplin as we recognize the 50th anniversary of the mural’s dedication and gift to the community.

6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 23, 2023:

In celebration of Joplin’s spiritual heritage, a community event will be held, “Honoring Joplin’s Journey of Faith.” This program will feature presentations highlighting Joplin’s Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow, interwoven with inspiring music selections to include congregation singing, hymns, and choruses.

This program is presented by the Joplin Ministerial Alliance and will be held at the Central Christian Center, 410 Virginia Avenue.

A tribute to Joplin songwriter Percy Wenrich featuring a local barbershop quartet is scheduled for April 14 and 15 at Missouri Southern State University’s Taylor Performing Arts Center.

As Joplin celebrates its Sesquicentennial, there are more activities and programs planned. To view details about these celebration events, visit Celebrate Joplin on Facebook, or visit the City’s website at joplinmo.org