The Story of Airmail
Did you know that the current Melrose Park Library was the former Melrose Park Post Office? Because the transformation from post office to library in the early seventies required extensive remodeling, some local art treasures were permanently lost—or so we thought!
Our search for a hidden treasure began with an innocent reference question. A former resident of Melrose Park e-mailed us with a question about the New Deal fresco that was originally situated above the postmaster’s door in the old post office. He distinctly remembered that mural from his childhood days and was wondering whether we had a picture of it we could send him.
Well, our patron, who had done some of his own research, knew that the artist’s name was Edwin Boyd Johnson, and armed with that information we were able to obtain a black and white print of “Air Mail” from the National Archives in Washington, D.C.
When the print arrived at the library, some of our native “Melrose Parkers” did indeed remember that fresco and a lively debate about what wall it had been located on began. After discussing it for a while, we wondered whether any fragments of “Air Mail” possibly remained well hidden from view.
Armed with only a flashlight, our intrepid Adult Services Manager climbed a ladder and began poking about in the drop ceiling. After several failed attempts, he hit pay dirt. In the ceiling behind the circulation desk he popped a tile and discovered approximately 1/3 of the original fresco in two sizable pieces; unfortunately, the middle section was completely destroyed. Still, what remains is in good shape and is well worth preserving.
Afraid to tackle the job of removing the fragile original pieces ourselves, we contacted the Midwest Chapter of the National “New Deal” Preservation Association (NNDPA) and PARMA Convservation for removal and restoration ideas. Though it might take a while—especially considering our limited funding—we are committed to preserving and displaying this important slice of American art history.
Last year, we announced that due to contributions from the residents of Melrose Park and from Mayor Serpico, we raised about $7,300, towards our goal of $39,000. Now your donation counts double due to the generosity of The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation. The Foundation will match donations dollar-for-dollar up to a total of $10,000. This total of $20,000 dollars along with the money already donated will allow the restoration of Airmail. You can drop off donations at the library or mail them. Checks should be made out to the ILSDO Fund for Illinois Libraries. We are located at 801 N Broadway, Melrose Park, IL 60160. Please write Melrose Park Library Fresco Fund on the memo line. Your donation is tax-deductible. Stop by the library and ask the staff to take a look at this historic fresco. We'd be happy to explain its history to you and to describe our plans for its restoration and preservation.
Funding for this website was awarded by the Illinois State Library (ISL), a Division of the Office of Secretary of State, using funds provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), under the federal Library Services and Technology Act(LSTA).