Home / Arts and Entertainment / Scrap Metal Art Transforms NC Town
Scrap Metal Art Transforms NC Town
4 Sep
Summary
- Retired mechanic built large sculptures from scrap metal.
- Art park revitalized downtown Wilson, boosting economy.
- Park draws nearly 200,000 visitors annually.
Vollis Simpson, a retired farm machinery mechanic from Wilson County, North Carolina, began creating monumental kinetic sculptures from salvaged materials in his sixties. These unique, wind-powered works, constructed from road signs and scrap metal, gained recognition as American Folk Art and drew visitors to his farm.
As Simpson aged and the sculptures deteriorated, the Wilson community intervened. Through a public-private partnership, the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park was established in downtown Wilson, opening in November 2017 with 30 restored sculptures. This initiative aimed to preserve Simpson's art and create a vibrant downtown gathering space.
The park has had a significant economic impact, generating millions in annual spending and supporting jobs. Property values in the surrounding area saw a substantial increase of 36% between 2009 and 2019, far surpassing city-wide growth. The park's success has turned downtown Wilson into a destination.
Visitation has continued to grow, with the park attracting approximately 194,300 visitors in 2024, a considerable rise from previous years. The park organization now reports an annual economic impact of $5.3 million in regional sales, supporting 42 jobs. Simpson, who passed away in 2013, lives on through his enduring creations.
