MVRM Members Honored with Artwork

MRVM Members Honored with Artwork

By Debbie Miller Marschke

On October 17, 2015, a mural was unveiled which pays homage to Bill “Shortfuse” Mann and Dottie “Dynamite” Mann for their contributions to the Barstow community. The mural is located on the eastern facing wall of the Union Bank, 239 E. Main Street in Barstow. Here is the inscription:

“Brubaker Mann Inc. started production in 1950 when two cousins, Ronald Brubaker and William Mann conceived a new project – naturally colored rock to be used for roofing and landscaping. Growing up in Pomona, the two men developed a love for the desert during boy scout trips to the Mojave. After serving in World War II, they went to College and a professor advised them to look for careers in construction because a post-war housing boom was underway. After graduation they bought the property where the company still is located and acquired an old crusher circa 1900, a wooden screen, and a dilapidated bucket elevator. The rock was broken with sledge hammers, fed into the mill and bagged in used sugar sacks. In 1979 Ronald Brubaker sold his share of the company to William Mann. After becoming semi-retired, Mr. Mann used his vast knowledge of the desert to author six guide books. Mr. Mann passed away in August 2006 and his wife became the sole owner.”

Dottie was very pleased with the mural and the wonderful reception that was given at the ceremony. She said that Bill would have been very proud, and would have enjoyed being in the spotlight!