Virginia State Parks

Images of America: Virginia

by Sharon B. Ewing, Joe Elton

Pres. Franklin Roosevelt's establishment of the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933 had lasting conservation impacts across the nation. Virginia joined this effort when Will Carson of the Virginia Conservation Commission convinced Roosevelt to use the Civilian Conservation Corps to build a state park system. Virginia is distinguished as the only state in the nation to open a system of state parks on one day. On June 15, 1936, the first six state parks--Douthat, Seashore (present day First Landing), Hungry Mother, Fairy Stone, Westmoreland, and Staunton River State Parks--were opened. From these humble beginnings, the commonwealth has developed over 35 diverse, award-winning state parks. From seashore to mountains, take a journey across Virginia through a vast array of landscapes and unrivaled natural and cultural resources.

128 pages, Paperback

First published April 19, 2011

Reviews

[Jessica · Rating 1 out of 5]

Really problematic, loud and intentional silence on how racism shaped the parks system. The first picture which even touched on the matter in its caption, of a lodge specifically for Black people, only had white people in the photo. The parks system was sued for discrimination, which lead to them legally being forced to cut that sh*t out, but you’d barely know that if you read this. There’s plenty of drooling reverence paid to the Confederacy, though. I feel really gross after reading this, like I need to take a shower. The tone of this book, elevation of the Confederacy while simultaneously giving tacit approval to the parks system’s racist roots, are a perfect illustration of why I hate living in this god awful state overflowing with racists and hate.

[Dan Ream · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good historical overview with excellent photos. Acknowledges, with a sense of regret, the segregation practiced in the parks, and lawsuits this caused, prior to 1964.

[Julie Renee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Loved the pictures at a glimpse of times past. Would have liked a map of where state parks are located for reference.

[Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

There were a few factual tidbits that I found interesting but most info was date and name references with minimal personal interest.