The Sesquicentennial Legacy Event in Columbia County culminates on October 4, 2023, with the unveiling of a mural that encapsulates the county’s rich history. This celebration, held in Dayton, is a significant gift to the community, showcasing the narrative of 150 years of heritage. Concealed behind a tarp, the mural adorns a prominent wall at the Palus Museum on East Main Street.
Mixed-media artist Emily Compton-Bwire, alongside her husband, Joseph Bwire, created the mural to reflect not only the county’s historical journey but also to envision its future. “We really wanted to take the opportunity to show the narrative of the 150-year celebration,” Compton-Bwire expressed regarding the project.
Celebration Activities and Community Engagement
The event spans from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and includes a variety of activities aimed at engaging the community. The festivities will begin with a ceremony at the Dayton Historic Depot, featuring a stagecoach transporting local, state, federal, and tribal dignitaries who will share their remarks.
Participants can look forward to an art walk, tours of the “Abraham Lincoln” Pullman railroad car, a chuckwagon meal dubbed “meet-your-neighbor,” living history vignettes with actors portraying key historical figures, a sauerkraut-making workshop, and an ice cream social. The day will conclude with the highly anticipated mural unveiling and a closing ceremony.
This Sesquicentennial celebration has been woven into other major events throughout 2025, including Dayton Days in May and the Columbia County Fair, which embraced the theme, “150 years of heritage and heart.” The celebrations will wrap up with the Christmas Kickoff during the Thanksgiving weekend.
A Call to the Community
Suzi Tasker, chair of the Sesquicentennial’s mural subcommittee and Compton-Bwire’s mother, emphasized the day’s significance, stating, “It’ll be a very full day in true Dayton style.” Shane Laib, economic development coordinator for the Port of Columbia and chair of the Sesquicentennial Organizing Committee, expressed gratitude for the community’s support and dedication of committee members, including Tasker, who have spent months planning the event.
“We just want to make sure people come out to the event on the 4th,” Laib said, highlighting the importance of a free community lunch meant to foster social connections. He noted the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on community interactions, saying, “We’ve had this thing where we go home … and we don’t go socialize with our neighborhoods.” As new residents join the community, Laib encourages everyone to participate in the event to “meet your neighbor,” reinforcing the essence of community spirit.
For additional details and a complete list of activities, visit the Port of Columbia’s official website.