If you’re an art or history lover, consider checking out downtown Milton the next time you’re in Central PA’s Susquehanna River Valley. In the early spring and late summer of 2009, The Improved Milton Experience (TIME) unveiled two brand new, professionally painted art murals — but what makes them really special is the subject matter.

The first one, which focuses on Milton’s transportation history, has images of railroads, trolleys, barges and early airplanes, as well as images of the coal and logging industries.  It even features a few real people (Miltonians, as they’re affectionately called) like Mary Strine who is a very young-at-heart centenarian. The mural also features the artist’s lovable dog, Kensey.

The second mural, which was just finished at the end of the summer, is so brightly colored that I often find myself stopping to look at it on my way to work. The mural pays tribute to the former Capitol Theatre, which faced a terrible fate during the 1972 flood, was renovated, and then tragically burned down in 1973. The mural features three movie heavy-weights: King Kong, Laurel and Hardy, and Shirley Temple. And the colors – wow. This mural also features a few local Miltonians, including the woman who managed the theatre. Kensey the dog also makes another appearance, with one small change –- the shadow in the mural is that of another dog, the artist’s new puppy!

Looking for more art in the downtown? Head to the Milton Post Office to buy some stamps. Yep, you read that correctly. Milton’s post office features New Deal Era Post Office Artwork on the outside façade AND art deco elements in the inside lobby. Commissioned during the New Deal Era, the post office has a series of five bas relief panels on the outside, representing the past and present modes of mail transportation and two showing Native Americans.

While you’re in Milton, check out the local shops and eateries, or take a picnic lunch to the Milton State Park – located less than 1 mile from the downtown. The Park is an 82-acre island in the West Branch of the Susquehanna River. It features wildlife habitat, picnic facilities, walking and biking trails, a children’s playground, soccer fields, a boat launch, and great fishing spots along the Susquehanna River. Access the park via PA 642 off of PA 147 on the east, and from US 15 at West Milton.

Before you visit, check out this brand new “Every Town a Treasure” brochure about Milton, published by the Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau, TIME, and the local historical society, explaining a brief synopsis of Milton’s history and heritage.

Enjoy your trip!