The Morris Street Maple: The Plastic Cow, The Durham Day That Was More American

Imagine strolling down Morris Street in Durham, North Carolina, on a warm summer day. The scent of freshly brewed coffee lingers in the air, as local shops and boutiques proudly display their unique offerings. Among the various attractions on this lively street, there is one that stands out—the iconic Morris Street Maple: The Plastic Cow. This whimsical art installation has become a symbol of community, creativity, and the American spirit.

Discovering The Morris Street Maple

Located in the heart of downtown Durham, the Morris Street Maple is a sight that cannot be missed. This extraordinary artwork derives its name from a towering maple tree that once stood in this spot. Unfortunately, due to disease, this majestic tree had to be removed. In an effort to preserve its memory, the community decided to replace it with something equally unique and meaningful.

That's when the Plastic Cow was introduced to the scene. Standing at an impressive 8 feet tall and made entirely out of recycled materials, including plastic bottles and milk jugs, this vibrant cow has captured the attention of locals and visitors alike. Its multicolored, mosaic-like surface provides an eye-catching spectacle that reflects the diversity and creativity of Durham.

Durham Tales: The Morris Street Maple, the Plastic Cow, the Durham Day that Was & More (American Chronicles)

by Greater Than a Tourist (Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6947 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	163 pages

FREE

The Durham Day That Was More American

Each year, on the first Saturday of July, Durham celebrates the Morris Street Maple, with a grand festival full of activities, music, and food. This day, known as "The Durham Day That Was More American," brings together people from all walks of life to commemorate the city's history and culture.

The festival kicks off with a colorful parade down Morris Street, featuring local artists, musicians, and dancers. The Plastic Cow proudly leads the march, acting as a beacon of creativity. The parade eventually concludes at the main festival grounds, where a multitude of vendors offer a wide array of delicious food, handmade crafts, and live performances.

As the day progresses, attendees can partake in various activities, such as a community art project, where individuals are invited to contribute to a large mural celebrating the Durham community. There are also workshops and demonstrations that highlight the sustainable practices used in creating the Plastic Cow, encouraging others to participate in the pursuit of a greener future.

Embracing Community and Creativity

The Morris Street Maple is not just a static art installation but a living testament to the power of community and creativity. It serves as a gathering place for locals and tourists to connect, share stories, and celebrate the diverse heritage of Durham.

Throughout the year, the cow becomes a canvas for artists, who create temporary installations, murals, and sculptures around the Plastic Cow, contributing to its ever-evolving appearance. This constant reinvention ensures that the Morris Street Maple remains an exciting visual experience for all who encounter it.

A Symbol of the American Spirit

The Morris Street Maple: The Plastic Cow embodies the essence of the American spirit. It represents the innovative nature of our society, where individuals come together to transform everyday objects into extraordinary works of art, promoting sustainable practices along the way.

This iconic art installation is a reminder that American identity is not limited to historical events but is continuously reimagined by communities. It exemplifies the freedom of expression that defines our nation and the belief that through art and creativity, we can cultivate a brighter future.

The Morris Street Maple: The Plastic Cow has become more than just a piece of artwork; it has become a symbol of community, creativity, and the American spirit. Its presence on Morris Street in Durham attracts visitors from far and wide, captivating them with its vibrant colors and extraordinary materials.

So next time you find yourself in Durham, be sure to take a stroll down Morris Street and immerse yourself in the energy and creativity that The Morris Street Maple: The Plastic Cow represents. Experience firsthand the joy of discovering an art installation that beautifully intertwines nature, sustainability, and the essence of what it means to be American.

Durham Tales: The Morris Street Maple, the Plastic Cow, the Durham Day that Was & More (American Chronicles)

by Greater Than a Tourist (Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6947 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	163 pages

FREE

Run into the history of the Bull City!

There is much history in the Bull City, and some of it can be found within these pages. How Bull Durham smoking tobacco put Durham, North Carolina, on the map. How a plastic cow and an oversized flag cut the city council down to size. How it felt to travel back in time at the Duke Homestead. How sportsman Al Mann and "Mom" Ruby Planck left indelible marks on their hometown. Journalist and local historian Jim Wise shows you that while Durham's stories are its own, readers may find the people, places and truths in them resonate with hometowns everywhere.