MOUNT JACKSON, VA – May 4, 2026 – The Town of Mount Jackson is inviting the community to witness a special moment of bicentennial magic. On Thursday, May 7, at 11:00 AM, we will officially cut the ribbon on our brand-new LOVE sign at the north end of Mayor’s Park (closest to Randy’s Hardware).
Town Partners with Triplett Tech Students to Celebrate 200 Years of History!
This isn't just a sign; it’s a story of collaboration that has been years in the making. The journey began in 2024 as a shared vision between the Town and the late Mr. Todd Lynn, the beloved former Principal of Triplett Tech. Mr. Lynn was a champion for technical education and community partnership; this sign stands as a vibrant tribute to his commitment to connecting students with meaningful local projects.
From a pool of community submissions, Ms. Kerry Higdon’s design was chosen to represent Mount Jackson. Ms. Higdon, a local artist and Shenandoah County resident, designed each letter to be a timeless stage for photos that capture the unique character of our town. Bringing that vision to life required a village of local talent, starting with the incredible time and energy of Triplett Tech instructors and students:
- The "L": History & Patriotism -- Built by the Carpentry Department under Instructor Philip Crisman, the "L" is constructed from used railroad ties, a nod to Mount Jackson’s historic commercial and transportation importance. Some ties even feature scorch marks as a symbolic tribute to the resilient history of the Meems Bottom Covered Bridge. The front-facing edge is lined with gold metal stars inspired by the Veteran's Memorial downtown.
- The "O": Growth & Togetherness -- A true feat of industrial art. John Grimm (Auto-Body) and his students welded and weaved over 200 feet of rebar to create a one-of-a-kind basket. This design honors the handicraft feel of our community and includes a functional interior for seasonal decorations, from springtime flowers to autumn pumpkins, reflecting the vibrant gardens of the town proper.
- The "V": Natural Beauty -- Dagan Stephens (Electrical Instructor) expertly crafted the structure of the "V," while Jessica Dellinger with VECCA added the artistic soul with custom paintwork. The design features two intertwining branches laden with apples, featuring a whimsical worm and a trailing vine, paying homage to our storied past in the apple industry and our local orchards.
- The "E": Community & Hospitality -- The Electrical Department also created the "E," which represents the quintessential southern porch. Complete with steel pickets, a detailed railing, and a light post (that works!). This letter symbolizes the warmth, pride, and invitation found in the historic and modern porches that line the streets of Mount Jackson.
The Town of Mount Jackson Public Works managed the careful installation and site preparation, ensuring this landmark is ready to welcome visitors for years to come.
"This project is the perfect centerpiece for our 200th anniversary," says Olivia Hilton, Town Manager. "It’s a physical representation of the spirit of Mount Jackson. Seeing our students and staff pour their talents into the heart of downtown is truly moving. We are a town with deep roots, and as this sign shows, a whole lot of LOVE."
The community is encouraged to come out, meet the Triplett Tech students and instructors and be the first to snap a photo with this new landmark.
- WHAT: Mount Jackson LOVE Sign Ribbon Cutting
- WHEN: Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 11:00 AM
- WHERE: Mayor’s Park, Mount Jackson, VA
- WHO: Hosted by the Town of Mount Jackson and Triplett Tech
About the Town of Mount Jackson: Currently celebrating its Bicentennial (1826–2026), Mount Jackson is a community dedicated to honoring its storied past while fostering a vibrant, creative future through partnership and local pride.
For additional information: info [at] mountjackson.com (info[at]mountjackson[dot]com) or 540-477-2121.
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