Exploring the U.S. Presidential Graveyard: Stunning Lifelike Sculptures

Reviving Presidential Sculptures in Virginia

In the quaint town of Williamsburg, Virginia, a remarkable vision is taking shape. The idea of a new Presidents Park is rejuvenating interest in the forgotten sculptures of U.S. Presidents that once graced a popular tourist spot. Howard Hankins, the man behind the original park, is on a mission to restore these iconic pieces and relocate them to a dedicated museum.

The Legacy of Presidents Park

The original Presidents Park was a unique attraction that featured life-sized sculptures of U.S. Presidents. However, the park closed in 2010, leaving its artistic treasures in disrepair. Among these is a dilapidated statue of George Washington, which now stands as a poignant reminder of the park’s former glory.

A derelict George Washington is a shadow of his former glory, after the Presidents Park in Virginia closed in 2010.
A derelict George Washington is a shadow of his former glory, after the Presidents Park in Virginia closed in 2010.

Hankins’ Passion for Preservation

After the park’s closure, Hankins couldn’t bear to demolish the busts. He instead took on the responsibility of restoring the sculptures and has since set up a campaign to raise $500,000 for this cause. The goal is not only to preserve these pieces of art but also to relocate them to a new museum where they can be appreciated and celebrated.

Hankins, who helped build the original sculpture park, didn't have the heart to destroy the busts when the tourist attraction closed, and instead moved them to his property in Williamsburg, Virginia.
Hankins, who helped build the original sculpture park, didn’t have the heart to destroy the busts when the tourist attraction closed, and instead moved them to his property in Williamsburg, Virginia.

A Community Effort

Public interest is growing, as communities rally around Hankins’ vision. Supporters hope to see the sculptures restored to their former glory, allowing future generations to learn about the nation’s history through these striking representations.

He now hopes to raise $500,000 to restore the sculptures to their former glory and relocate them to a new museum.
He now hopes to raise $500,000 to restore the sculptures to their former glory and relocate them to a new museum.

Conclusion

The story of the former Presidents Park and its sculptures serves as an important reminder of the nation’s history and artistic heritage. With endeavors like Hankins’ restoration campaign, there is hope for these historical artifacts to find new life and recognition in a dedicated museum.

What appears to be former U.S. President Bill Clinton, peers out from far left.
What appears to be former U.S. President Bill Clinton, peers out from far left.
Photographer Patrick Joust asked to visit the surreal site, taking along his wife and two-year-old son.
Photographer Patrick Joust asked to visit the surreal site, taking along his wife and two-year-old son.
It was interesting to see my son's reaction to them, since he obviously had no sense of who these people were,
“It was interesting to see my son’s reaction to them, since he obviously had no sense of who these people were,” said Joust. “His presence made the photo shoot feel a lot more playful.”


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