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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Really special; so glad the whirligigs are maintained!
[Mac, 01/03/2018]
After years in the making (literally), the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park in downtown Wilson officially opened in late 2017. Thirty Vollis whirligigs were moved, restored, repainted, and have now been installed. They're lit at night, and the place looks awesome!
[Dean Jeffrey, 01/01/2018]
The area is under construction, and the city is upgrading the park -- but you can still see the whirligigs.
[Tp, 08/14/2017]
We took a slight detour on our way to visit a friend in Florida because I saw this park listed and it looked interesting and fun. We were initially quite disappointed, as not many whirligigs were evident, but, just as we were leaving, a passerby pulled over and told us about the warehouse and how we should go there. What a great tour we had! The worker showed us the whirligigs in their various stages of repair as well as offering up some background info. and folklore. By the time we'd finished this stop had easily become one of our favorites on our road trip.
I look forward to returning when it's more complete, hopefully on a windy day so I can see these works of art in motion!
[Marcia Schaefer, 06/19/2016]The Whirligig Park boasts ongoing additions (There had been a problem with underground petrochemicals on the site which slowed down progress, and a continued need for additional funding). Several blocks away is a warehouse for restoration and conservation of Vollis' creations (I can't recall the street address). They allowed us to enter and look around at the reconstruction efforts. Outside are several of the larger whirligigs as well. It's all very interesting -- as much as the park itself.
[Sherry, 01/27/2016][Previous 5 items] Page of 3 [Next 3 items]
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
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