The original mural was destroyed by Hurricane “Charley” on August 13, 2004. The re-creation of this mural was completed in 2007.

Original Mural: Nature’s harmony depicted the harmony of nature, focusing on the contributions of two important Punta Gorda residents.  Portraits of the two men, Harry Goulding and J.C. Galloway, were part of the sunset clouds.

Harry “Pete” Goulding developed several new strains of hibiscus plants by cross breeding and special pollination techniques.  Mr. Goulding also raised vegetables in his backyard garden on Retta Esplanade, using hydroponic methods.  The big red hibiscus in this mural is a tribute to his work with local plant life, particularly the “lipstick red” hibiscus.

J.C. Galloway spent most of his life as a nurseryman, retiring to Punta Gorda from Pennsylvania.  He continued operating a small nursery here but devoted more time as an environmentalist working with indigenous wildlife.  His collection of species eventually became part of the Florida Adventure Museum in Punta Gorda, which was located at 260 W Retta Esplanade.

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