About the Mural

Beginning in 2010, the 5th District Neighborhood Planning Council collaborated with mosaic tile artist Sharon Jones of SJ Studios to fabricate a picturesque informational mural in Tilton Park. The park covers approximately three acres and features a wide variety of beautiful shade trees which are complimented by flowering trees. Of special note are the flowering Japanese Kwanzan Cherry Trees, which offer a special treat to neighbors each spring.

Working in conjunction with Sophia Hanson, who was at that time the City of Wilmington's Director of Planning and Development, and Stan Kozicki, who was Project Manager for the City's Department of Parks and Recreation, the 5th District NPC funded park repairs and upgrades, including new lighting and benches. The NPC was then inspired to add an artistic element to the park designed to link residents and visitors to the history of the park and Wilmington. Through this effort, the idea of the mural was born.

The NPC’s primary goal was to depict the historic themes (including that of the park’s namesake Dr. James Tilton) and industries intrinsic to Wilmington and to Delaware. The images range widely from Delaware agricultural and chemical inventions to banking and finance. The mural also features scenes of children playing soccer and images of Quakers and the Underground Railroad.  The mural is comprised of over 2,300 handmade 2” x 2” tiles inset into a 90’ brick face sitting wall with a bluestone cap.

Directions to Titon Park

The Tilton Park Tile Mural is located at W. 8th and N. Broom Streets in Wilmington's Cool Spring/Tilton Park City Historic District.

About Dr. James Tilton

Dr. James Tilton served as Surgeon General of the U.S. Army from June 11, 1813 - June 15, 1815.

Read more about Dr Tilton at http://history.amedd.army.mil/surgeongenerals/J_Tilton.html