Washington Telegragh

07/04/2023

Article from Joshua Williams:

Two Arkansas State Parks receive awards from Arkansas Museums Association

Three total awards given to Arkansas State Parks



(LITTLE ROCK, Ark.) – The Arkansas Museums Association (AMA) recently announced three awards for Arkansas State Parks.

Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park was awarded Outstanding Achievement in Collections Care Conservation for updating its collections storage facility to better care for museum artifacts. Historic Washington State Park received awards in two categories: Outstanding Achievement of the Year in Exhibitions for the “Saying Goodbye: Funeral Traditions of the 19th Century” exhibit and Outstanding Achievement of the Year in Education for the “Saying Goodbye to Jenny” living history program.

Prairie Grove’s collection management facility was updated in 2022 to better care for the artifacts that help interpret the Civil War Battle of Prairie Grove. This project helps ensure the artifacts are preserved for future generations.

Visitors to Historic Washington can view the “Saying Goodbye” exhibit located in the Courthouse Visitor Center through Labor Day weekend. The exhibit explores local 19th-century funeral traditions in Washington and surrounding areas. Artifacts related to funeral traditions, such as a hair wreath and mourning cards, are available for visitors to view. The exhibit also includes the clock that was stopped at the death of Arkansas Gov. Daniel W. Jones, who was from Washington.

The Arkansas Museums Association (AMA) was founded in 1966 as an organization of museums and museum personnel dedicated to the promotion of professional standards in Arkansas museums, the encouragement of interaction between members and the development of public support for and interest in Arkansas museums. Each year, AMA presents awards to celebrate and encourage excellence within Arkansas museums. Arkansas State Parks is an institutional member of the AMA.



Historic Washington State Park

Historic Washington State Park, located in Washington, Arkansas, is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The park is a restoration village interpreting the historic Arkansas town in the 19th century. Daily tours are provided to over 15 historic sites and museums, such as the B.W. Edwards Weapons Museum and Blacksmith Shop. To learn more, visit HistoricWashingtonStatePark.com or call 870-983-2684.



Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park

Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park is one of America’s most intact Civil War battlefields. The park protects and manages the battlefield to interpret an inclusive understanding of the Prairie Grove campaign and the effects of the Civil War on the people of Northwest Arkansas. Interpretive programs about the Civil War and life in the 1860s are offered year-round.



Arkansas State Parks

Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 54,400 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.



Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism

The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Stacy Hurst serves as the cabinet secretary for the department.

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PHOTO CAPTION: From left to right: Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park Curator Samantha Bynum and Historic Washington State Park Curator Josh Williams







JOSH WILLIAMS

Curator



Division of Arkansas State Parks

Historic Washington State Park

PO Box 129 | 103 Franklin Street

Washington, AR 71862

[email protected]

p: 870.983.2284 | f: 870.983.2736



ArkansasStateParks.com

HistoricWashingtonStatePark.com

14/03/2023

Article from Joshua Williams:
Historic Washington State Park to host 55th Annual Jonquil Festival

Festival celebrates the arrival of spring with thousands of flowers, craftspeople and entertainers



(WASHINGTON, Ark.) – Historic Washington State Park is hosting the 55th Annual Jonquil Festival Friday through Sunday, March 17 to 19, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thousands of jonquils will welcome visitors to the festival, as well as craftspeople, entertainers, activities and a variety of food.



The Four State Iron Munchers will be available with blacksmithing demonstrations at the Blacksmith Shop and the Arkansas Archeological Survey will hold an archeological dig on Block 7. Mark Keith, Jerome Underwood, Dancetastics dancers and vintage dancers will perform. The festival will also include Taekwondo demonstrations, a karaoke contest and a car show.



Park staff will offer tours of the park’s historic homes and museums, as well as surrey rides, at regular price. William’s Tavern Restaurant will be open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.



Parking is $6 per vehicle. For more information about the event, contact [email protected] or call 870-983-2684.



Historic Washington State Park

Historic Washington State Park, located in Washington, Arkansas, is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. except for Mondays. The park is a restoration village interpreting the historic Arkansas town in the 19th century. Daily tours are provided to over 15 historic sites and museums, such as the B.W. Edwards Weapons Museum and Blacksmith Shop. To learn more, visit HistoricWashingtonStatePark.com or call 870-983-2684.



Arkansas State Parks

Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 55,006 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.



Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism

The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Mike Mills serves as the cabinet secretary for the department.

Arkansas State Parks media page

05/02/2023

New article from Joshua Williams:

Valentines Dinner at Williams’ Tavern



(WASHINGTON, Ark.) – Enjoy a romantic evening with someone special at Williams' Tavern Restaurant on Friday, February 10 or Saturday, February 11. A surrey ride begins the evening at 6 p.m. Dinner and entertainment will follow at 7 p.m. Reservations are required. Guests will be seated family style with other guests.



Cost for attendance to the workshop is $70 per couple. Contact 870-983-2684 to register. For more information about the workshop and to register, contact the park at [email protected] or call 870-983-2684.



Historic Washington State Park

Historic Washington State Park, located in Washington, Arkansas, is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The park is a restoration village interpreting the historic Arkansas town in the 19th century. Daily tours are provided to over 15 historic sites and museums, such as the B.W. Edwards Weapons Museum and Blacksmith Shop. To learn more, visit HistoricWashingtonStatePark.com or call 870-983-2684.



Arkansas State Parks

Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 54,400 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.



Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism

The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Stacy Hurst serves as the cabinet secretary for the department.

Arkansas State Parks media page

18/01/2023

New article from Joshua Williams:



“Dances of the Past” Workshop



(WASHINGTON, Ark.) – Dance experience is not required for this fun evening of dance and fellowship on Saturday, January 21 from 7pm—9pm! Join the staff of Historic Washington for an exciting class that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Throughout history, dance has been not only an art form but also a way to socialize and make new friends. Come alone or with a partner and you will leave with new friends and new knowledge of dances such as the Virginia Reel, and many more. Refreshments will be served and fun will be had by all. Comfortable shoes are recommended. Casual or period dress is welcomed.



Cost for attendance to the workshop is $15 single or $25 per couple. Contact 870-983-2684 to register.

For more information about the workshop and to register, contact the park at [email protected] or call 870-983-2684.



Historic Washington State Park

Historic Washington State Park, located in Washington, Arkansas, is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The park is a restoration village interpreting the historic Arkansas town in the 19th century. Daily tours are provided to over 15 historic sites and museums, such as the B.W. Edwards Weapons Museum and Blacksmith Shop. To learn more, visit HistoricWashingtonStatePark.com or call 870-983-2684.



Arkansas State Parks

Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 54,400 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.



Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism

The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Stacy Hurst serves as the cabinet secretary for the department.





JOSH WILLIAMS

Curator



Division of Arkansas State Parks

Historic Washington State Park

PO Box 129 | 103 Franklin Street

Washington, AR 71862

[email protected]

Arkansas State Parks media page

07/12/2022

Old Washington Farmers’ Market’s
Christmas Bazaar to Come to Old Washington

by Joseph Barry

On the 9th and 10th of December, during Christmas and Candlelight, Old Washington Farmers’ Market will host the Christmas Bazaar in the town fire station on Franklin St. The Bazaar will run from 3pm-8pm on both days. There will be baked goods and crafts available, along with coffee for sale.

06/12/2022

Historic Washington State Park to present 36th Annual Christmas and Candlelight

Several Musicians will perform Christmas favorites





(WASHINGTON, Ark.) – Historic Washington State Park will host its 36th Annual Christmas and Candlelight event on Friday, Dec. 9, and Saturday, Dec. 10. Tour venues will open at 1 p.m. Luminary lighting and music programs will begin at 5 p.m. See music schedule below.



Homes and buildings within the historic town will be decorated with period decorations and thousands of luminaries will light the streets. A horse-drawn surrey will be available for rides. Williams’ Tavern Restaurant will be open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.



Admission is $10 per adult and $6 per child (up to age 12).



For more information about the event, contact the park at 870-983-2684.

06/12/2022

Hempstead County Historical Meeting

Tuesday, December 6, 2022

See examples of Christmas Past through the different newspapers of Hempstead County. View some of the advertisements and different activities that people enjoyed during this festive season.

The Hempstead County Historical Society will meet on Tuesday evening December 6, 2022 at the Presbyterian Church in Washington, Arkansas at 7pm. Everyone is welcome.

The Historical Society seeks to bring awareness to the rich heritage and history of Hempstead County. Come and share your history with us.

If you have any questions concerning the event itself call 870-703-8256 or email [email protected].

PHOTO CAPTION: Christmas Ball Advertisement in "Washington Telegraph", December 22.1858

23/11/2022

Article from Joshua Williams:

Historic Washington State Park to present 36th Annual Christmas and Candlelight

Thousands of luminaries will light historic village’s streets





(WASHINGTON, Ark.) – Historic Washington State Park will host its 36th Annual Christmas and Candlelight event on Friday, Dec. 9, and Saturday, Dec. 10. Luminary lighting and music programs will begin at 5 p.m. Tour venues will open at 1 p.m.



Homes and buildings within the historic town will be decorated with period decorations and thousands of luminaries will light the streets. A horse-drawn surrey will be available for rides. Williams’ Tavern Restaurant will be open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.



Admission is $10 per adult and $6 per child (up to age 12).



For more information about the event, contact the park at 870-983-2684.



Historic Washington State Park

Historic Washington State Park, located in Washington, Arkansas, is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. except for Mondays. The park is a restoration village interpreting the historic Arkansas town in the 19th century. Daily tours are provided to over 15 historic sites and museums, such as the B.W. Edwards Weapons Museum and Blacksmith Shop. To learn more, visit HistoricWashingtonStatePark.com or call 870-983-2684.



Arkansas State Parks

Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 54,400 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.



Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism

The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Stacy Hurst serves as the cabinet secretary for the department.



# # #





JOSH WILLIAMS

Curator



Division of Arkansas State Parks

Historic Washington State Park

PO Box 129 | 103 Franklin Street

Washington, AR 71862

[email protected]

p: 870.983.2284 | f: 870.983.2736

Arkansas State Parks media page

31/10/2022

New article from Joshua Williams:

Historic Washington State Park presents ‘Town in Conflict’ event

Park to portray aspects of daily life during the Civil War





(WASHINGTON, Ark.) – Historic Washington State Park will host “Town in Conflict” on Saturday, Nov. 5, 2022. The event explores different aspects of daily life during the Civil War. Programs throughout the park will focus on topics such as civilian refugees, religion during the war, military camps and drill, Civil War medicine and the political issues of the day.



Admission is $10 per adult and $6 per child (ages 6-12). Tours will be available in addition to the free outdoor Civil War interpretive activities.



A special program will be available for school age children on Friday, Nov. 4. Students will learn about the Civil War through a variety of activity stations on civilian and military topics. Admission is $5.50 per student. School groups can register by calling 870-983-2684.



In conjunction with the event, a military skirmish will take place at the Prairie D’Ane battlefield in Prescott, Arkansas off of Exit 46 on Interstate 30 on Saturday and Sunday at 2pm. Admission fee is required at entrance of battlefield.



For more information about the event, contact the park at 870-983-2684.



Historic Washington State Park

Historic Washington State Park, located in Washington, Arkansas, is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. except for Mondays. The park is a restoration village interpreting the historic Arkansas town in the 19th century. Daily tours are provided to over 15 historic sites and museums, such as the B.W. Edwards Weapons Museum and Blacksmith Shop. To learn more, visit HistoricWashingtonStatePark.com or call 870-983-2684.



Arkansas State Parks

Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 54,400 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.



Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism

The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Stacy Hurst serves as the cabinet secretary for the department.

Contact: Curator Joshua Williams
(870) 983-2684, or
[email protected]

Arkansas State Parks media page

25/10/2022

Hempstead County Historical Meeting
Tuesday, October 25, 2022

Have you ever heard about the life of Jenny Vann Vaughn of Hempstead County and how she woke up at her own funeral wake in 1866? Come here about her story and the current funeral exhibit at Historic Washington State Park by HWSP Historian, Chris Adams at the meeting of the Hempstead County Historical Society.

The Hempstead County Historical Society will meet on Tuesday evening October 25, 2022 at the Presbyterian Church in Washington, Arkansas at 7pm. Everyone is welcome.

The Historical Society seeks to bring awareness to the rich heritage and history of Hempstead County. Come and share your history with us.

If you have any questions concerning the event itself call 870-703-8256 or email [email protected].

25/10/2022

Another article from Joshua Williams:

Historic Washington State Park presents ‘Town in Conflict’ event

Park to portray aspects of daily life during the Civil War





(WASHINGTON, Ark.) – Historic Washington State Park will host “Town in Conflict” on Saturday, November 5, 2022. The event explores different aspects of daily life during the Civil War. Programs throughout the park will focus on topics such as civilian refugees, religion during the war, military camps and drill, Civil War medicine and the political issues of the day.



Admission is $10 per adult and $6 per child (ages 6-12). Tours will be available in addition to the free outdoor Civil War interpretive activities.



A special program will be available for school age children on Friday, November 4. Students will learn about the Civil War through a variety of activity stations on civilian and military topics. Admission is $5.50 per student. School groups can register by calling 870-983-2684.



For more information about the event, contact the park at 870-983-2684.



Historic Washington State Park

Historic Washington State Park, located in Washington, Arkansas, is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. except for Mondays. The park is a restoration village interpreting the historic Arkansas town in the 19th century. Daily tours are provided to over 15 historic sites and museums, such as the B.W. Edwards Weapons Museum and Blacksmith Shop. To learn more, visit HistoricWashingtonStatePark.com or call 870-983-2684.



Arkansas State Parks

Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 54,400 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.


Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism

The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Stacy Hurst serves as the cabinet secretary for the department.

Contact: Joshua Williams
870-983-2684 | [email protected]

Arkansas State Parks media page

12/10/2022

New article from Joshua Williams:

Saying Goodbye to Jenny recreates 19th-century wake at Historic Washington State Park



WASHINGTON, Ark. – You won’t believe what happened to 16-year-old Jenny Vann. The Saying Goodbye to Jenny living history tour at Historic Washington State Park on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. will recreate a 19th-century wake at an antebellum home in Washington. Park guests will be immersed in the tradition and ritual of friends and relatives visiting at the home of young Jenny Vann, recently deceased. Participants will witness the sights, sounds and silent meditation of a bereaved family on the eve of the final "goodbye" to their loved one.

This unique living history tour is $15 per person. Contact the visitor center at 870-983-2684 to register for the tour.

For more information about Historic Washington State Park visit HistoricWashingtonStatePark.com.

Historic Washington State Park

Historic Washington State Park, located in Washington, Arkansas, is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. except for Mondays. The park is a restoration village interpreting the historic Arkansas town in the 19th century. Daily tours are provided to over 15 historic sites and museums, such as the B.W. Edwards Weapons Museum and Blacksmith Shop. To learn more, visit HistoricWashingtonStatePark.com or call 870-983-2684.

Arkansas State Parks

Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 54,400 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.

Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism

The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Stacy Hurst serves as the cabinet secretary for the department.

Arkansas State Parks media page

12/10/2022

New article from Joshua Williams:

Tour Historic Washington State Park after dark for a Halloween treat



WASHINGTON, Ark. – Light your candle lanterns and prepare for a Halloween treat at Historic Washington State Park on Saturday, Oct. 22, and Saturday, Oct. 29, 2022, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Park interpreters will take participants on a guided hike at selected sites to explore unexplained happenings throughout the history of Washington.

The cost for the guided tour is $15 per person. Registration is required; contact the visitor center at 870-983-2684 to register.

For more information about Historic Washington State Park visit HistoricWashingtonStatePark.com.



Historic Washington State Park

Historic Washington State Park, located in Washington, Arkansas, is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. except for Mondays. The park is a restoration village interpreting the historic Arkansas town in the 19th century. Daily tours are provided to over 15 historic sites and museums, such as the B.W. Edwards Weapons Museum and Blacksmith Shop. To learn more, visit HistoricWashingtonStatePark.com or call 870-983-2684.



Arkansas State Parks

Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 54,400 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.



Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism

The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Stacy Hurst serves as the cabinet secretary for the department.

Arkansas State Parks media page

27/08/2022

MARKET DEALS
The Old Washington Farmers market will be open from. 8am-1pm on August 27th.

Mint Man will be there with Chocolate Chip cookies ($1.50/bag), potted Chocolate Mint, Peppermint ($0.75-$19.50), and Lemon Balm ($3.25, $5.50), along with dill ($3.25).

Come out and support your local farmers markets!!

20/08/2022

MARKET DEALS
The Old Washington Farmers market will be open from. 8am-1pm on August 19th.

Mint Man will be there with Chocolate Chip cookies ($1.25/bag) and Biscotti ($1.25/bag), potted Chocolate Mint, Peppermint ($0.75-$19.50), and Lemon Balm ($3.25, $5.50), along with dill ($3.25).

Come out and support your local farmers markets!!

18/08/2022

New article from Joshua Williams:

On Saturday, September 3, the Old Washington Farmer’s Market will host an official watermelon weigh-off site for the Great Pumpkin Commonwealth in Washington, Arkansas. The Great Pumpkin Commonwealth provides official venues for growers to weigh several varieties of fruit and vegetables, including watermelons, across the country. They then give prizes for the largest weighed item of its type across the country.

This official weigh off event will be for watermelons ONLY. Prizes will be given out for the top three largest watermelons. First Place - $500, Second Place, -- $300, and Third Place -- $200.

A Youth category will also be included for watermelon growers that are 14 years of age and younger. Prizes for youth are as follows: First Place -- $75, Second Place -- $50, and Third Place -- $25.

Only one official entry will be considered per farmer or team. Preregistration is not required for the event. The official weigh-off will begin around 11am. The event will take place behind the City Hall of Washington, Arkansas across the street from Williams’ Tavern Restaurant of Historic Washington State Park. For more information on the weigh-off contact Josh Williams at 870-703-8256 or at [email protected].

In addition to the Watermelon Weigh-Off , the Old Washington Farmer’s Market are encouraging other area farmers to come and sell any produce they may have. For more information to register as a vendor contact the market at [email protected].

Washington, Arkansas is located on Hwy 278 West just eight miles north from Exit 30 at Hope on US Interstate 30.

Watermelon Weighoff 2021 Winners