The Wells County Public Library welcomes painted rock feature “Wells”
By HOLLY GASKILL
Something special is growing at the Wells County Public Library.
Between the bushes and flowers outside the front doors, a snake has made a home. Since settling in early July, the snake has flourished, overtaking a considerable part of the landscaping.
On any normal occasion, a snake this size would be greeted by shrieks and screams, but this case is different — it’s a snake made entirely of painted rocks.
Affectionately named “Wells,” this rock snake is a community-led project started by Deena McClure. This summer, McClure began the snake with a large, green-painted rock for a head. A sign then introduced Wells and invited library patrons and community members to paint their own rocks and see the snake grow.
Lane McClure, McClure’s grandson and rock-painting partner, has tracked the snake’s growth since its start. In his most recent count, it contained over 350 rocks.
“There’s not a whole lot behind it, but it’s a huge blessing,” McClure said. “We have a wonderful library and community that comes together for something simple and sweet like this.”
McClure has been painting rocks like this for years. There are even Facebook groups dedicated to the hobby. The premise is simple — paint a rock, place it in public, and, hopefully, brighten someone’s day. Locally, the group is called “Wells County Rocks.”
McClure considers the hobby to be a small, joyful act. Oftentimes, she finds herself praying while she paints. While whimsical and fun, she has learned that a small kindness can carry a big impact.
On one occasion, McClure placed a penguin rock on a bench outside Lutheran Hospital. Later, it was posted in a Facebook group — the rock was found by a toddler receiving ongoing medical treatment. Penguins were the child’s favorite animal, the post read.
McClure often doesn’t know the journey her rocks take, but the handful of stories like these are what she carries with her. Whether it’s the word “hope” left at Bluffton Regional Medical Center or a silly joke left on a lamp post, McClure knows sometimes a smile is what people need most.
“We never know what small acts of kindness really mean to those around us, and that’s why they’re important,” McClure said.
MClure has become know for her rock-painting passion, and was sent pictures of rock snakes in other cites. As an avid reader, the library seemed like the perfect place.
Initially, McClure was unsure if people would latch onto the idea. After all, the project asked people to take time out of their busy days to find, paint and bring in rocks.
As it now proudly spans across the front of the building, McClure said she’s been amazed and blessed. The rocks come in many shapes, sizes, phrases and pictures, but every one is a simple part of community and kindness.
“There’s so much hard stuff going on in the world, and I just think this so neat, touching, positive to see Wells grow,” McClure said.
holly@news-banner.com
