Day 1: Touring Wilcox Park

I’ve settled into the cottage at Wilcox Park in Westerly, Rhode Island. It was recently renovated and is absolutely beautiful inside. I’ll share photos of the different rooms later this week.

Today, I walked through the park with the tree map and took notes on the trees that caught my attention. I’ve decided to begin my art series with the white oak, the oldest tree in the park, at an impressive 300 years old. These magnificent trees can live up to 700 years!

Below is a little information (from their website) about the park and cottage in case you are curious.

Wilcox Park

Wilcox Park is owned and maintained by the Memorial and Library Association. The association was established in 1842 to commemorate the volunteer soldiers and sailors who fought in the Civil War. Westerly Library opened its doors in 1894 through the initiative of local industrialist-inventor, Stephen Wilcox, who donated the land.

The original parcel of land for Wilcox Park was donated in 1898 by Harriet Wilcox in memory of her husband, Stephen Wilcox. Harriet envisioned the area as a walking park to be enjoyed by the hard working citizens of Westerly and Pawcatuck. 

Today, Wilcox Park is considered a Medallion Park by the ASLA and has been a nationally significant listing on the National Register of Historic Places since 2004. The park has ten champion trees, registered as the largest in the state, alongside numerous other trees, gardens, fountains, an open field, and pond.

The Cottage

This cottage is believed to have been built circa 1850. Over the years, the cottage has housed the park’s caretakers, library director, and library staff. At around 1,000 square feet, it has everything an artist would need: a studio to work in, a sitting room, a full kitchen, laundry, and a front porch for reflection and relaxation.

Below are a few snapshots of my walk in the park. I am pointing to an advertisement of my open studio even on July 26th. I made the board!