College’s restoration efforts land historical society award
Meridian Community College’s iconic mosaics that front Ivy-Scaggs Hall have caught
the attention of many since they were installed in the mid-1960s.
Now there’s another nod to the 13 panels.
Earlier this month, the Mississippi Historical Society saluted the College for its preservation of the mosaics and presented it with an Award of Merit at the society’s annual meeting. This award is presented annually to individuals or organizations for their outstanding work preserving Mississippi history.
Brother Rogers, secretary/treasurer with the Mississippi Historical Society, said the organization was grateful to MCC for its attention to historic preservation and was pleased to honor the College.
The Mississippi Historical Society is a nonprofit organization that works closely with the Mississippi Department of Archives and History to promote understanding of the state's history. Founded in 1858, the Society was reactivated in 1952 and has held annual meetings since 1953.
Dr. Tom Huebner, president of MCC, said the Mississippi Historical Society’s recognition highlights an important part of the college’s identity. He accepted the award on behalf of the College.
Preserving the panels has not been simple. College leaders have worked with experts and state officials to determine the best way to restore and protect them. “We’ve been in the process for a while trying to figure out how to put tile back on the wall,” Huebner said. “It’s just not that simple.”
The mosaics have been identified as historically significant by the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. Because of that designation, the College has been studying the best path forward for restoration.
MCC has already installed netting in front of some panels to protect the artwork. Additional netting may be added.
“I’m excited about that landmark for our institution,” he said. “We’ve had a lot of folks at our college who have worked very hard to try to make this what it should be for our institution and our city.”
For more information, visit meridiancc.edu.