Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., now through April 30. Learn more.

Virginia State Parks History and Culture Day - Palmer Hayden

Location of Widewater State Park in Virginia

Where

Widewater State Park, 101 Widewater State Park Road, Stafford, VA 22554.
Throughout the Park

When

June 15, 2024. 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Come learn about Palmer Hayden, a renowned Widewater artist who is known for his paintings of everyday life in African-American communities.

Born January 15th, 1890 at Widewater, Virginia, Hayden grew up to become a famous painter during the Harlem Renaissance. Although he had many different jobs throughout his life, from being a member of the Ringling Brothers' Circus to a soldier in the Army's all-African American 24th infantry regiment during World War I, he always maintained a passion for art, especially painting. Some of his famous works include A Midsummer Night in Harlem, A Janitor Who Paints, and Baptism at Widewater, amongst many others.

After walking to the Palmer Hayden marker inside the park and learning about the man himself, you will have the opportunity to watercolor a scene just as he did! All skills levels and ages are welcome to participate.

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-288-1400
Email Address: widewater@dcr.virginia.gov