Fulton County Receives $27,000 Tourism Attractions Grant
Note: The included image is a concept rendering of the exterior curve of a Spoon River Mussel Statue. It is intended for illustrative purposes only. Each statue's final design will differ, featuring hand-painted artwork on the interior shell that reflects the historical significance of its location.
By - Jennie Grove, Marketing & Tourism Director for Spoon River Partnership
The Spoon River Partnership for Economic Development is excited to share that it has been awarded a $27,000 matching grant from the Tourism Attractions Grant Program through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). The funding is part of a $1.7 million statewide investment supporting local tourism attractions across Illinois.
“We are thrilled to have this support from the State of Illinois to bring the Spoon River Mussel Statue Trail to life,” said Jennie Grove, Marketing and Tourism Director. “Fulton County is full of history and natural beauty that many residents and visitors have yet to discover. This project will shine a light on that heritage in a fun and interactive way for people of all ages.”
About the Spoon River Mussel Statue Trail
The Spoon River Mussel Statue Trail is a county-wide public art initiative that celebrates Fulton County’s rich cultural heritage and its deep connection to the Spoon River. And yes, mussel shells might seem a little unusual at first glance, but there’s a fascinating reason for them!
Historically, Native Americans in the region relied on mussel shells for many everyday items—including buttons, tools, and even spoons—which is how the Spoon River got its name. Over time, these small shells became a symbol of the region’s unique history and resourcefulness. The Spoon River Mussel Statue Trail invites visitors to discover this heritage in a fresh, creative way.
The project will feature ten five-foot-tall artist-painted mussel sculptures installed in ten Fulton County communities: Canton, Cuba, Lewistown, Astoria, London Mills, Bernadotte, Ellisville, Farmington, Ipava, and at the Emiquon Preserve site. Each mussel will include a hand-painted mural on the interior of the shell, designed by local artists to reflect the historical significance of its specific site. Locations will include parks, town centers, and other culturally or historically meaningful spots, each accompanied by a plaque explaining the story behind the site and its connection to the Spoon River.
Visitors can follow the trail using printed and digital maps available at local businesses, tourism centers, and online. Those who visit and photograph themselves with all ten statues will receive a commemorative keepsake, such as a t-shirt or sticker, from the Spoon River Partnership for Economic Development, creating a fun, family-friendly way to explore the county’s hidden stories.
By highlighting lesser-known aspects of local history and nature conservation, the project aims to bring attention to Fulton County’s treasures, engaging residents and visitors alike while supporting local artists and businesses.
Construction and installation are expected to begin in spring 2026. The initiative will strengthen Fulton County’s identity as a destination for cultural exploration and outdoor adventure, leaving a lasting economic and artistic impact.
The Illinois Tourism Attractions Grant Program supports localities, organizations, and businesses statewide in enhancing tourism infrastructure, events, and experiences. Combined with Illinois’ largest-ever tourism campaign, “Middle of Everything,” the program helps drive millions of visitors to choose Illinois for their next trip.
Spoon River Partnership for Economic Development’s application was selected through a competitive process for demonstrating how the project will support local businesses, encourage overnight stays, and attract visitors from across the region.
Get Involved
Community members, organizations, and businesses interested in supporting or sponsoring the Spoon River Mussel Statue Trail are invited to contact Spoon River Partnership for Economic Development to learn more about sponsorship opportunities at various levels. Participation offers a meaningful way to celebrate Fulton County’s creativity, heritage, and growth.
For more information, contact the Spoon River Partnership for Economic Development at 309-647-2677 Ext 4 or mspiva@cantonillinois.org.