Joplin Mayor Phil Stinnett at a ceremony on November 21, 2005 unveiled a replica of the historic Newman Building, now known as City Hall. The holiday village-size building that lights by way of an on/off switch was created as a fund-raiser and is accurate in the detail of the 1910 structure that originally housed the Newman Mercantile Company. This project was initiated to raise funds to place a bronze three-dimensional City Seal in the center of the first floor of City Hall. Each replica measuring approximately 7"x6.5"x6" may be purchased for $50. For information about how to make a purchase, call Joplin City Hall during normal business hours at (417) 624-0820.

Joplin City Clerk Barbara Hogelin explains to Henry Warden, a nonagenarian and former lawyer, the Benton Foundation's role in helping to create displays of muralist Thomas Hart Benton's notes and letters. They serve as background for the mural, "Joplin at the Turn of the Century," that now hangs above the elevators in city hall. Warden and his late wife Mary Curtis were responsible for convincing Benton to paint one last mural for posterity. Hogelin was responsible for heading the project that showcases the mural's background. She also spearheaded the creation of the Newman Building replica as a fund-raiser for the purchase of a city seal.

“The City Seal is a significant part of Joplin history,” said Barbara Hogelin, city clerk. “It was originally established in January 1917, and signifies Joplin’s historical mining era, as well as the regional business center it is today. The Seal has been placed on City documents throughout its history and these documents are what tell the story of Joplin’s City government. By placing the Seal in a prominent place, the citizens of Joplin can truly appreciate its beauty and art, as well as what it represents in government.”

Citizens had gathered around on the mezzanine prior to the unveiling to listen to brief comments by the mayor and Brad Belk, historian and director of the Joplin Museum Complex. The occasion marked the rededication of the Thomas Hart Benton mural.