Mules were introduced into this area in the late 1800s, replacing oxen that had been used in the fields and woods to haul wagons. Mules played a part in the growth of the logging industry. The first industry in this area was turpentine, and as the trees became over-tapped, they were cut for lumber. Mules would haul logs and pull the plows to clear the land. Holman Mule Stable was located less than a block from the location of this mural where as many as 500 mules were sold each month.