NPF and Union Pacific Railroad Unveil New Mural Near Pullman National Historical Park

The National Park Foundation (NPF) and partner Union Pacific have unveiled a new mural at Pullman National Historical Park. In the heart of Chicago’s historic Pullman neighborhood, the mural commemorates the area’s rich history and its importance in the labor movement. Designed and installed by local Chicago artist and muralist Joe Nelson, the mural honors and celebrates the achievements of the Pullman Porters who were the first to establish a black labor union.

Joe Nelson previously collaborated with NPF and Union Pacific in 2021 when he created a vintage-style poster to honor the park’s grand opening, taking inspiration from the Union Pacific’s iconic national park travel posters. NPF has supported Pullman National Historical Park since its designation in 2015, providing a total of $10 million, with a lead gift from the Pritzker Traubert Foundation and a $1 million grant from the Union Pacific Foundation to support the construction of the park’s visitor center and the revitalization of the site, as well as improvements to the 12-acre grounds and historic buildings. Additionally, NPF has worked alongside the Historic Pullman Foundation, supporting its journey to becoming the park’s official nonprofit partner.