Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
NAPPANEE – The city of Nappanee announced the official opening of Cartoon Alley, a vibrant new downtown landmark that celebrates Nappanee’s nationally recognized cartooning heritage.
“We are thrilled to add Cartoon Alley to our downtown,” said Mayor Phil Jenkins. “The collaboration of the different groups that made this possible is a testament to the character and passion they have for this community. Together, we are building a better Nappanee.”
Tucked between Clark and Main streets, this once-ordinary alley has been transformed into a vintage-style Sunday comics page, complete with colorful panels, whimsical characters and interactive speech bubbles perfect for photos, according to a provided news release. Visitors can also scan QR codes to learn more about the artists who made Nappanee famous:
• Bill Holman – Smokey Stover & Spooky the Cat
• Fred Neher – Life’s Like That
• Merrill Blosser – Freckles and Friends
• Max Gwin – Slim and Spud
The community is invited to a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, Oct. 7 at 6:30 p.m. in Cartoon Alley.
Cartoon Alley is the first initiative from the Uniquely Nappanee: Downtown Master Plan, led by the Nappanee Redevelopment Commission with generous grant support from the Elkhart County Community Foundation.
The project was brought to life through the efforts of the Redevelopment Commission, the Nappanee Arts Council, community members, the ELC Heritage Collection and dedicated City of Nappanee employees.
Local contributions make Cartoon Alley a truly homegrown achievement:
• Artwork by the Nappanee Arts Council and Jeff Stillson
• Benches, lights and mantel sign crafted in Nappanee
• Powder coating by Hoosier Coatings
• Artwork and mantel installation by Pro Time Metal
• Lighting installation by Amzie’s Electric
• Plants provided by Blooms on Main St.
Families are encouraged to bring their cameras, snap photos and enjoy this new downtown destination that celebrates Nappanee’s contributions to American cartooning, revitalizes the heart of downtown, and showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of the community.
