“This is the Good to the Last Crumb mural by Jesse Kassel,” says Cathy Chow. The mural graces “the west-facing wall of the historic Pretzel Bell Building at 120 E. Liberty St.,” says David Frye, citing the A2 Art Center Murals website. “The full mural includes (among other things) a pretzel and a bell.”
This “ ‘building’s history’ clue can be found at the bottom of the mural,” adds Dave Bicknell, referencing the hint, “Elements in the full mural nod to this building’s history.”
“I assume the clue references the pretzel in the mural as TAQ is now located where the original Pretzel Bell sat?” says Steve Luongo. Correct! Dyke McEwen points out that this is the “west wall of Bakehouse 46,” and Laura McEwen adds that it’s by the patio seating for TAQ.
While the mural is located at 112 E. Liberty, the building is “called Pretzel Bell Building,” notes Denise Schlotfeldt. The original Pretzel Bell occupied the building from 1934 to 1985. “It was a popular gathering place for townies and students alike,” says David Karl. It was reportedly a favorite of the Men’s Glee Club, Michigan Daily staff, and “Ann Arbor’s favorite bluegrass band, the RFD Boys,” who played there regularly. Ringing the bell was also a celebratory tradition. “Alas, by the time I moved to Ann Arbor, the original P- Bell was closed,” adds Karl.
“Record day for me!” says Ann Bieneman, who had recently seen the mural. “The last one broke me, so thanks for the easy hit!” Our random drawing winner, Sara Kitzsteiner, spied it on a recent walk to the library. We received twenty-one entries in May; all but two correctly identified the mural. Sara will enjoy her $25 gift certificate at Argus Farm Stop.