Art, History & Community: The ARCY Mural Dedication in Hamden By Mia Verderame

The mural, created by Connecticut artist ARCY and titled “Land of the Long Water,” is meant to strengthen our connections to indigenous roots and honor the original inhabitants of Hamden. It tells the story of Hamden’s land and the indigenous history embedded in the surroundings.

The work of art features Hamden’s native animals and plants on a background of the Quinnipiac River and Sleeping Giant. The famous landmarks and natural elements represent “the history of the land while celebrating the natural beauty that still exists here today,” according to ARCY.

Town of Hamden’s Digital Media and Marketing Coordinator, Crystal Herron, planned this tribute so that residents and visitors could acknowledge the Quinnipiac people’s influence through symbols in Hamden’s landscape. As part of that mission, Herron chose Skiff Street as the mural’s location to allow everyone who sees it to get a glimpse into a culture that is often overlooked. 

Herron’s message behind the mural is that, “Hamden has been shaped by years of history, and the Quinnipiac people are an important part of that story. As Hamden prepares to celebrate its 240th anniversary and our nation approaches the 250th anniversary of its founding, it is important to recognize our shared history.”

On Friday, June 26, several Quinnipiac staff members, including President Marie Harden, attended the unveiling. Quinnipiac University believes that, “Through partnerships like this, we have an opportunity to help amplify important stories, foster community engagement and encourage deeper understanding of the rich Indigenous history that continues to shape our region.” 

As history goes on, the Hamden community seeks to keep this narrative alive.​ This project was organized by Crystal Herron, Digital Media and Marketing Coordinator for the Town of Hamden, in partnership with artist ARCY. Quinnipiac University, RiseUp Arts, and Town Fair Tire funded it. For further information, please contact the Mayor’s Office at (203) 287-7100 or by email at mayor@hamden.com.

Mia Verderame was born in Hamden and is a high school senior at Hamden Hall Country Day School, where she plays varsity soccer and softball. She is a writer with a passion for journalism, and when she has free time, she enjoys playing with her two kittens, Mojo and Biko.