lJoplin Missouri Historical Guide

Beginnings

Architectural Interest

Maps

9. Thomas Hart Benton's mural
“Joplin at the Turn of the Century,”
(1973)

"Courtesy Thomas Hart Benton
Permanent Exhibit, Inc."

(Located in the Joplin Municipal Building, 303 E. 3rd)

Renowned Missouri artist Thomas Hart Benton painted a mural depicting early Joplin and its mining history. Originally put on display on February 3,1973, the mural was part of the Joplin Centennial celebration. Benton began his professional artistic career in Joplin as a cartoonist for the Joplin American newspaper.