In 2021, several community improvement projects were undertaken through the efforts of the Matthews area Chamber.
As visitors drive southwest on Massachusetts Avenue in Matthews, a revitalization trend can be observed. First, to the left is the old dance hall from the early 1900’s gas boom era, later converted to a gym used by the Matthews Minutemen basketball team.
Taylor student Lauren Belcher was commissioned to update the decades old, faded mural. Lauren’s artistic creativity adds new detail and vibrant colors to this iconic piece of Matthews’ history.
On the right side of the street, visitors will see a beautiful mural that embodies the history and current businesses in Matthews. Commissioned by the Matthews Area Chamber, a committee of community members worked with artist, and 2021 Taylor University graduate, Abby Braswell to craft this beautify mural. A group of Taylor students and community members painted the mural in July and August of 2021.
This Matthews mural is on the North wall of the East Central Indiana Robotics team building where mentors guide high school students on the construction of a new robot each year to compete in district, state and international events.
Already established successful businesses are next. On the right is the Personal Touch beauty shop which received a fresh look with a new coat of paint in September of 2021. On the left, is the Johnson’s Filling Station and Convenience Store followed by Jennerjahn Machine on the right. Towering silos on the left then “ shout” the success of the Matthews Feed and Grain. Then, the Lions Club Building on the right welcomes those who need a place for events while the club is planning for the next Cumberland Covered Bridge Festival for the weekend after Labor Day.
