Last Sunday marked a special day in Winslow as the First Baptist Church unveiled its art car now proudly on the corner of Fourth Street and Warren Avenue, bringing a dash of creativity and spirituality to the town’s streets. This new addition to Winslow’s art car family is a symbol of teamwork and community spirit. The car is a 1941 Hudson Commodore that is a vibrant bluish-green with Bible quotes and words such as “love” and “peace” written on the doors.
Jim MacLean, one of the people behind this project, shared that they’ve been working on this idea for about nine months. Thanks to the support of local businesses, this dream became a reality. Businesses including Currell’s Bargain Barn, Dalton Motors, O’Reilly’s Auto Parts, House of Tint, Tri R Towing, City of Winslow, Wild West Xpress, LLC, Winslow Arts Council, Winslow Chamber of Commerce, HMR Metal Works and Big Lowry’s Customs pitched in to make it happen. During his speech that opened the unveiling MacLean said that without the help from each of these sponsors the project would not have happened.
The Commodore had seen better days when it was sitting in Currell’s Bargain Barn. It was rusty and in need of some TLC. But after months of sanding, painting, and fixing, it’s now looking fantastic and ready to sit on the property of the First Baptist Church for everyone to enjoy.
Near the car and the famous Route 66 shield, a meaningful Bible quote can be spotted, reading: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
The unveiling began with a heartfelt prayer led by Pastor Fred Harris. He hoped that this art car would become a symbol, drawing people to the First Baptist Church. He encouraged everyone to scan the QR code on the car to learn more about the church’s mission. Harris also mentioned that the car came in at about half the amount of money they had budgeted for the project.
There’s also a handy sign near the car with arrows pointing to Route 66 destinations like Chicago, Kingman, Los Angeles and Oklahoma City. Berry Larson, president of the Winslow Chamber of Commerce, gave a speech during the event. She talked about how these art cars give people another reason to visit Winslow and make Route 66 even more charming.
Winslow’s art cars continue to bring the community together. The First Baptist Church’s art car is proof that when people work together, great things happen. Winslow is showing how art can be a source of unity and inspiration for the whole town.
