Hand-drawn hometown collection
A hand-drawn celebration of Lockport, available exclusively at Krema Coffee.
Town
Lockport’s limestone buildings and canal heritage give the city a character that is instantly recognizable. The I&M Canal, Gaylord Building, historic clock, Dellwood Park, and generations of Porter pride come together in a community that values its history while continuing to grow.
Where to find it
917 S State St
Lockport, IL 60441
Store hours
Checked September 14, 2026. Holiday, seasonal, and special-event hours may vary.
The collaboration
Ashley built the Lockport artwork around the details that give the community its distinct identity, including St. Dennis Church and the historic character found throughout town.
The response showed how strongly a familiar place can connect with people. The first mugs sold out at Krema, and a new batch followed. One customer explained that she had grown up in Lockport, returned so her son could experience the town, and wanted mugs for friends who shared those memories.
The story behind the mug
After the Plainfield project, Ashley and Krema continued the idea with a mug created specifically for Lockport.
Ashley studied the limestone buildings, churches, parks, and school traditions that make Lockport distinct.
Each local element was drawn by hand before being arranged into a continuous illustration.
The finished mug brought Lockport’s history and everyday community life together at the State Street shop.
The initial batch sold out, and more mugs followed for customers who wanted to share their Lockport memories.
Inside the illustration
Each element celebrates a recognizable part of the community’s history, gathering places, and everyday life.
The waterway that shaped Lockport’s founding, industry, and enduring historic identity.
The 1838 limestone landmark recalls Lockport’s role as headquarters for canal construction.
The downtown clock is a familiar meeting point and recognizable part of the streetscape.
Its prominent steeple has long stood as a visible landmark near the canal and downtown.
Athletics and the Porters name celebrate the school spirit shared across the community.
The historic park represents generations of recreation, gatherings, and local traditions.
The Lockport collection
In the news
The Chicago Tribune later featured Ashley’s wider community mug project and the way locally specific artwork can turn familiar places into meaningful objects.
Read the Chicago Tribune story
The creative process
I began with Illinois and Michigan Canal and used it to set the pace of the composition. Adding Gaylord Building, Historic Lockport Clock, and St. Dennis Church brought architecture, gathering places, and local character together without making the mug feel like a list of landmarks.
The Krema collection
A meaningful local gift
The mug makes a meaningful Lockport, Illinois housewarming gift, new-home welcome, or moving-away keepsake. Its hand-drawn local details give residents and former residents something familiar to recognize with every cup.
Purchasing information
The Lockport Mug is sold at the Lockport Krema location while supplies last. Contact the shop before making a special trip.
Directions to Krema Coffee
