Experience the “Community Builder” Mural
What would Milton Hershey say about his legacy today?

A fitting tribute to a man whose generosity has touched the lives of many, the “Community Builder” two-story mural is a visitor favorite!

Located in the Grand Lobby, the mural is painted in “trompe l'oeil” style, meaning “trick the eye.” This unique painting style makes subjects appear three-dimensional when, in fact, they are part of a two-dimensional painted surface.

Not intended to be an historical image, the mural depicts Milton Hershey visiting modern-day Hershey. Visitors can see Milton Hershey sitting on the steps of his birthplace, The Homestead. He is surrounded by six children from Milton Hershey School, which began as a dream and vision shared by Milton Hershey and his wife, Catherine. Unable to have children of their own, the Hersheys decided to use their wealth to create a home and a school for orphaned boys. Originally named the Hershey Industrial School in 1909, it was renamed Milton Hershey School in 1951.

The mural also includes landmark buildings as well as green space and agricultural heritage, both important parts of Hershey. A shadow box contains items reminiscent of Milton Hershey’s Pennsylvania heritage, his family and early business struggles.

Well-known trompe l’oeil artist William Cochran painted the mural in his studio in Frederick, Maryland.