Muncie Memory Spiral Takes Shape

Some say time is a flat circle, repeating itself in an infinite loop. This concept of eternal return goes back to ancient Greece, continued with 19th-century philosophers such as Friedrich Nietzsche, and was even mentioned in the 21st-century HBO drama “True Detective,” with Matthew McConaughey.

The Muncie Memory Spiral, a striking new walking exhibit in Heekin Park, exemplifies this concept, providing a window into the past while reminding visitors that, as William Faulkner said, “The past is never dead. It’s not even past.” The 800-foot spiral pathway leads visitors through a beautiful display of scrubs, flowers, and plants while more than 20 signs tell them about Muncie’s rich history. The journey starts with signs about the present day, goes back to the contributions of the early Black community, and finishes with a history of the Indigenous people who originally occupied the land.

Rick and Jean Zeigler with the Sherman & Marjorie Zeigler Foundation led the project from conception to reality. Muncie Memory Spiral is a true community effort, however. Rick engaged with Chris Flook, a Ball State University professor, and Delaware County Historical Society, to ensure the history was told accurately and deeply. The Zeiglers were assisted by several partners in the effort, including Community Enhancement Projects (CEP), where Rick serves as past president.

Muncie Mayor Dan Ridenour and the city contributed eight percent of the cost, while the rest came from a long list of organizations, which included IPA members Sherman and Marjorie Zeigler Foundation, Ball Brothers Foundation, Community Foundation of Muncie & Delaware County, and George and Frances Ball Foundation.

Local firms were engaged in the many phases of the project, including design, construction, and landscaping. The exhibit has many touches that make it unique to its community, such as benches designed by landscape architecture students at nearby Ball State University.

Although currently open to the public, the official opening will be 11 a.m. on Aug. 26. The entire community is invited to attend to celebrate.

The exhibit saves room for signs about the past that is to come—the future. With the Muncie Memory Spiral complete, future generations can be assured of a beautiful place to enjoy and reflect.