One of the many inspiring signs posted in the residential neighborhood where I walked a square block.
THE MESSAGES ARE STRONG. Powerful. Statements that express the beliefs of those who live here. In a section of the Atwood Neighborhood in Wisconsin’s capital city.
A view of the Atwood neighborhood, including the bike trail that crosses this busy street. The residential neighborhood photographed for this post is to the left (and unseen) in this image.
On a recent trip to Madison to visit our second daughter and her husband and our son, I walked a block-square residential area near the son’s apartment building on the east side. I chose that over following the bike trail since I suffer a hearing loss and often don’t hear bikers fast-approaching from behind. Madison has a great system of recreational routes. But strolling sidewalks feels safer for me as I take in my surroundings, sometimes pausing to take photos.
Charming homes and yards…with powerful messages posted.
I was delighted to find fairy gardens in one yard.
Vegetables grow in a watering tank along the boulevard.
In the block I walked near the trail, also near Olbrich Botanical Gardens and Lake Monona, I found plenty to photograph. This is a well-kept area of older homes snugged together. Most front yards overflow with flowers, including in one, sweet fairy gardens. Inviting front porches, decks and entries define these homes that truly fit the definition of charming.
A bold door carries a strong message.
This sign references the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis on Memorial Day, which prompted a movement.
A statement of beliefs outside another Atwood home.
In these mostly lawn-less properties, there seems a cohesiveness of pride and of people who care about others, about issues, about this place they call home. And beyond. I saw that in the many posted signs addressing current-day concerns.
Bowling balls make for interesting garden art.
Lilies burst color into one of many front yard gardens.
This typewriter garden art intrigued me. I wished I could roll a piece of paper into the typewriter and leave a message.
Among the lilies and the outdoor art—including a rusting vintage typewriter—I experienced a sense of neighborhood that expands into home-grown businesses like Monty’s Blue Plate Diner, Michael’s Frozen Custard, the Barrymore Theatre…
In this photo, the message I quote below is posted in the sign to the far right, bottom.
And I heard, too, this overall general message: No matter where you are from, we’re glad you’re our neighbor.
© Copyright 2020 Audrey Kletscher Helbling
Minnesota Prairie Roots 
Pretty, interesting, but sad and depressing on so many levels.
You are correct on that. Maybe some day we will all figure out how to get along and respect one another no matter our differences.
Thanks for taking us with you on your walk.
You are welcome, Ruth. I’ll have one more post from this neighborhood.
Read this on my phone the other day and didn’t comment but decided to come back today and catch up on all the comments I didn’t make! What an impact each one of us can make in our own little way in our own little corners of the world. Just gotta take a stand and be bold at times.
That’s right. I love this residential neighborhood and will have one more photo rich post publishing soon.
Really great signs!!! Lucky that you found them and can share the messages with all of us. Love the typewriter!!!
I’m always happy to share my discoveries. And this was a wonderful neighborhood with a heart and soul.