The Gumball Machine: A Sweet Spot in Trolley Square

In Wilmington's trendy Trolley Square, amidst a bustling scene of restaurants and nightlife, sits an unexpected gem: The Gumball Machine. However, this isn't your ordinary vending machine; it's a utility box artfully painted to resemble a classic gumball machine. The Gumball Machine is the brainchild of artist Remi Poindexter, who transformed the once-overlooked utility box into a vibrant piece of public art. Painted bright red with multi-colored gumballs lining the screen and a coin slot, it captures the nostalgic charm of old-fashioned gumball machines. A painted tray reads 'THANK YOU,' adding to the playful illusion, though it never dispenses any actual gumballs. The mural is part of a larger community initiative by the Trolley Square (Delaware Avenue) Community Association, which partnered with a local council member to revitalize the neighborhood by painting murals on 18 utility boxes in the spring of 2022. The Gumball Machine stands out as one of the most popular and recognizable of these murals, drawing smiles and photo opportunities. Trolley Square itself is a vibrant neighborhood with a rich history. Once known as Forty Acres, it got its name from the Wilmington City Railway, which established its trolley car barn there in the 1850s. While the car barn was demolished in the 1970s to make way for the Trolley Square Shopping Center, the neighborhood retains its lively spirit, offering a mix of restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions.