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Wilson, North Carolina: Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park

Public park features 30 giant restored whirligigs, folk art of the late Vollis Simpson, who built them in nearby Lucama. Some are 60 feet high.

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Whirligig Park.

Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park

Whirligigs in an empty lot. I'm guessing they didn't raise the money. This was kind of a disappointment after detouring out of our way off of I-95. Seems like a depressed little town. Too bad this park hasn't happened. Maybe the whirligigs are still at the late Simpson's home?

[LK, 07/18/2014]

The latest we've heard is that "Phase 1" of Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park will be completed by the end of Summer 2014, and that it will eventually display 31 of his massive sculptures. Vollis died in 2013 at age 94.

Simpson Whirligigs

Since Vollis Simpson's demise, his life work has gained a life of its own. The town of Wilson has dedicated a park to his creations. It is gradually being built/filled with Simpson's wind-driven machines. The big one is a sight to behold. Fundraising continues. Well worth the effort to find.

[James Lehman, Jr., 01/08/2014]

The new park.

Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park

The first restored whirligigs have been installed at the new Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park downtown. There are five of them up so far. There are more, in various stages of restoration, a couple blocks away outside the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Conservation Headquarters at the corner of Barnes and Douglas.

Too bad Vollis didn't get to see this.

[Dean Jeffrey, 11/04/2013]

Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park

Address:
301 S. Goldsboro St., Wilson, NC
Directions:
I-95 exit 121. Drive east on US Hwy 264 ALT/Raleigh Rd Pkwy W. for six miles into town. Turn left at the stoplight onto Goldsboro St. SW. You'll quickly see the whirligigs on the right.
Hours:
Daily 5 AM - midnight. Lit at night. (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
Phone:
252-243-8440
RA Rates:
Major Fun
Save to My Sights

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In the region:
Defender of the Southland Statue, Bentonville, NC - 37 mi.

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