Main Street mural restored by artist

FALLBROOK - Work to restore the sepia-toned Main Street “photo,” located in Fallbrook’s Historic Downtown District at the corner of Main and Alvarado, was completed by mural artist Jim Fahnestock in December. “Main Street, circa 1920,” which was based on an early 20th century photo of Fallbrook, was originally painted by Fahnestock on this wall in 2007 and due to the south-facing exposure had begun to deteriorate. Fahnestock touched up the damaged areas and recoated the mural with a clear UV protectant.

The mural, which depicts an early version of Fallbrook’s Main Street, includes the image of a man driving a car, along with his “best friend.” The model for the dog in the mural was no other than Fahnestock’s own pet, Maggie, who joined him in looking over the newly restored work. Looking closely at the mural the “wear and tear” may actually enhance the image, as the variations in the new finish, which was painted to represent a giant photograph, looks remarkably like the worn spots on a photo you might see in a grandparent’s photo album.

The Fallbrook Beautification Alliance (FBA), one of Fallbrook’s most active stewards, commissioned Fahnestock to refurbish the mural. Funds used to care for the mural, as well as to maintain Fallbrook’s other public art, sculpture and statues, are raised primarily through the FBA’s annual 4th of July fireworks celebration and fund raiser. Those wishing to contribute to, or assist in the organization’s efforts to beautify Fallbrook, can visit the FBA website at

http://www.fallbrookbeautification.org.

A walking tour guide of Fallbrook’s Public Art may be found at http://www.fallbrookartinpublicplaces.org.