Eddie Gardner Mural Restoration Project

The Plainfield Historical Society is proud to lead the restoration of a remarkable piece of local and national history: a 26-foot-long mural honoring Eddie Gardner, one of Plainfield’s most celebrated sons.

Gardner was a daring early automobile racer and a trailblazing aviator who played a critical role in establishing the United States air mail delivery service in 1918. His legacy takes flight in a mural painted by renowned local artist Harold S. Hewlett, Art Director for the Gerlach-Barklow Calendar Company. Commissioned by local business owners and residents, the mural was originally dedicated in 1957 and proudly displayed in the lobby of the Plainfield U.S. Post Office.

After decades of damage and obscurity, the Historical Society successfully secured the return of the mural to the Plainfield community. Since 2018, it has been undergoing careful, professional restoration to preserve both its artistic value and the inspiring story it tells.

With the centennial of Route 66 on the horizon in 2026—and the spotlight once again on Plainfield’s transportation legacy—we are committed to bringing this mural back to public view.