Westerly Sun Column | Wilcox Park Cottage finds new life as artist haven

Have you ever wondered who lives in the little cottage in Wilcox Park? Perched sweetly at the edge of the pond, the cottage sits as a little vignette, inviting the imagination to lend it a story. Originally built around 1850 and moved to its present location in the early 1900s, it has served over the years as a home for the caretakers of Wilcox Park.

After lying fallow since the mid-2000s, the cottage interior was damaged in 2019 due to a burst pipe. With the help of two very generous local donors, a refurbishment of the cottage began in 2023 to bring the house into the 21st century. The Westerly Library & Wilcox Park Memorial Association, along with a local architect the Rhode Island Historical Preservation Commission, worked to preserve the historical integrity of the exterior structure while also allowing for key updates. For example, new energy efficient windows were installed, all kept within the existing style and color scheme. The main pipe for the cottage and barn septic system was connected to the town sewer, which was a tremendous environmental improvement. Inside, plumbing and electrical work was brought up to code, and new batt and spray foam insulation ensured efficient heating and cooling. The kitchen was modernized with a farmhouse style feel. A full, first floor, ADA compliant bathroom was also added, along with a stand-up shower — no longer just a tub for the occupant!

And who might this occupant be? The cottage’s new lease on life is to serve as an abode for an Artist-in-Residence. The library’s AIR program provides artists an opportunity to work on and share their art during a 2-8 week stay at the cottage, while using Wilcox Park and the surrounding area as inspiration for their project. Artists of all mediums are welcome to apply, including musicians, visual artists, writers, and performance artists. When not occupied by an artist, this quaint cottage is available as a rental space for small events so you, too, can experience the charm and history of this little gem.

The most current Artit-in-Residence is composer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Noam Makover, who was raised right here in Westerly. This Tuesday at 6:00pm, Noam will present of some of the work he has created during his residency, and host an open discussion about music, composition, and inspiration.

For almost 175 years, the cottage in Wilcox Park has been a steadfast sign of domestic warmth and welcoming. The rehabilitation and updating of the cottage shows the commitment of the library and park to maintaining this piece of historical prominence in Westerly.

Note: This is one of a compilation of essays written by members of the Westerly Library and Wilcox Park Committee and URI Master Gardeners. Visit our website at www.westerlylibrary.org to view the full collection of Park-focused essays!

by Mary Jo Girard Westerly Library & Wilcox Park Board of Trustees Secretary and Park Committee member