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Lilly Grace Crawshaw: A 12-Year-Old Scout’s Tribute to Her Grandfather and Her Hometown

November 6, 2024

In the heart of Clinton, Mississippi, a young girl named Lilly Grace Crawshaw is making history. At just 12 years old, she’s on the brink of becoming the youngest female Eagle Scout in Mississippi. But for Lilly, the journey is about more than badges and accolades; it’s a tribute to her late grandfather, who was also an Eagle Scout in his youth. Lilly’s determination to achieve this rank is fueled by her desire to honor her grandfather’s legacy, and she plans to receive her Eagle Scout status on what would have been his birthday—a touching tribute to a man who inspired her from an early age.

For her Eagle Scout service project, Lilly decided to celebrate Clinton’s vibrant business community in a creative way: by painting a mural that captures the spirit of the town. Her chosen location was the side of the Indian Lanes bowling alley, a place familiar to locals and perfectly positioned to showcase her artwork to residents and visitors alike. But this isn’t just any mural—it’s a masterpiece of local pride, with each letter in the word “CLINTON” representing a different business in the area.

To add an interactive twist, Lilly included a QR code on the mural. With a quick scan, community members can participate in the mural’s meaning by guessing which business each letter represents. This clever addition turns the mural into more than just a visual attraction; it becomes a way for people to engage with and celebrate Clinton’s local economy.

Of course, a project of this scale required both community support and teamwork. Lilly’s vision drew the attention of several local businesses, who generously donated resources to help her bring it to life. Revell Ace Hardware provided all the paint needed for the mural, ensuring Lilly had the supplies to execute her colorful vision. When it came time for the actual painting, Shipley’s Donuts and The Bank by Pizza Shack stepped in to fuel the group of friends and fellow Scouts who joined Lilly to paint. With donuts and pizza on hand, the group shared in the hard work, laughter, and pride that came with every brushstroke.

For Lilly Grace Crawshaw, the mural is more than a stepping stone to Eagle Scout status. It’s a lasting gift to her hometown, a testament to her dedication, and a symbol of how young people can make meaningful contributions to their communities. Through this project, Lilly is not only honoring the businesses that make Clinton special but also inspiring others to appreciate and support local enterprises.

As she prepares to receive her Eagle Scout status, Lilly is not only achieving a personal milestone but also carrying on her grandfather’s legacy in a beautiful, meaningful way. Her project at Indian Lanes will remain a lasting symbol of her dedication, both to her family and to her community.

In her journey, Lilly has shown that inspiration can come from family legacies and that even the youngest among us can make an indelible impact. For Clinton, her mural will be a constant reminder of community, connection, and the power of honoring those who came before us.