Three additions to the Roebling Murals along the Covington riverfront will be unveiled at a ceremony Tuesday. The region's largest permanent display of public art is brought to life through the paintbrush of Robert Dafford, of Lafayette, La.

The murals, a project of the Legacy initiative of Forward Quest, depict the history of the Covington area and its tie to the Ohio River. The project started in spring 2002, and the murals are expected to be complete by fall 2006. This year's additions honor the area's African-American, artistic and religious heritage with paintings of Jacob Price, an influential Covington resident; artists Frank Duveneck and Henry Farny, and early religious institutions of historical and architectural significance.

Dafford said that, while the paintings are born of his own creativity, he has done research in libraries and Covington archives to view historic images from the area.

Dafford said he hears good things about the murals from Covington natives and those who are visiting.

IF YOU GO

What: Public unveiling of the latest additions to the Roebling Murals When: 11 a.m. Tuesday Where: Base of the Roebling Suspension Bridge Details: Light lunch and refreshments provided. Parking available in RiverCenter garage. Information: (859) 291-2020

"I want the murals to do many things ... but first to bring people to the riverfront," he said. "I also want people to see art can make a difference in the community."

Passerby Richard Fowler, who was born and raised in Covington, comes down to see the progress of the murals every now and then.

"I appreciate the perspective and the history," he said. "It's amazing to see the changes through history here in this location."

Julie Hackworth, co-chair of the mural committee at Legacy, said some of next year's mural themes include a tribute to the Boy Scouts and Daniel Carter Beard, the flood of 1937 and the 1914 Centennial Celebration in Covington.

E-mail aremke@enquirer.com