Chelan County PUD allocates $600K to restore iconic 'Horsepower' mural

The 32-foot-by-16-foot mural by artist Walter Graham will be installed at the Wenatchee Valley Museum and Cultural Center

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Chelan County Public Utility District (PUD) has allocated $600,000 to restore and relocate the late artist Walter Graham's iconic "Horsepower" mural. The mural, which has been on display at the Rocky Reach Dam Discovery Center since the 1960s, will be installed at the Wenatchee Valley Museum and Cultural Center after undergoing restoration. The PUD commissioners emphasized the mural's historical significance and its importance to the local community.

Why it matters

The "Horsepower" mural has been an integral part of the Chelan County PUD's identity and a beloved landmark for generations of local residents. Its relocation to the Wenatchee Valley Museum will ensure the preservation of this iconic artwork and allow it to continue to be enjoyed by the public for years to come.

The details

The 32-foot-by-16-foot mural has been in storage since 2020 following renovations at the Rocky Reach Dam Discovery Center. The PUD initially intended to install the mural at its new Service Center, but it was too large for the building's interior. The museum was identified as the ideal location to properly display and preserve the mural, with plans for a renovation that can accommodate the artwork.

  • The "Horsepower" mural has been on display at the Rocky Reach Dam Discovery Center since the 1960s.
  • The mural was placed in storage in 2020 following renovations at the Discovery Center.

The players

Walter Graham

The late artist who created the "Horsepower" mural.

Chelan County PUD

The public utility district that has allocated $600,000 to restore and relocate the "Horsepower" mural.

Wenatchee Valley Museum and Cultural Center

The museum that will be the new permanent home for the restored "Horsepower" mural.

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What they’re saying

“As a follow-up to what commissioner Bergren said, I, too, grew up here with that mural being part of my growing up. We've talked for years about how we cannot lose that mural. I'm with you all the way. The museum will be a great location, but not as good as Rocky Reach Dam, but that's one person's opinion. It needs to be out there because it tells stories, and it creates questions. It's just a powerful part of who we are.”

— Randy Smith, Commissioner (Chelan County PUD)

“There are so many people in this area who grew up, remember going out to Rocky Reach Dam, to look at salmon in the eye, to see the 'Horsepower' mural, and it was made for that dam, so by not having it there anymore, it's really sad. But after 60 years, that's just not long enough for people to see these wonderful things by iconic people such as Walter and artists and visionaries. We need to be able to preserve those. I'm hoping that you will.”

— Denise Marker, Niece of Walter Graham (Chelan County PUD)

What’s next

The Wenatchee Valley Museum and Cultural Center will begin the process of renovating its facilities to accommodate the restored "Horsepower" mural, with the goal of putting it on permanent public display.

The takeaway

The preservation and relocation of the iconic "Horsepower" mural demonstrates the Chelan County community's commitment to honoring its artistic heritage and ensuring that beloved local landmarks continue to be accessible to future generations.