Giant, forsaken presidential statues in a cemetery capture the interest of tourists and urban explorers instead of Mount Rushmore, U.S.A.

Giant, forsaken presidential statues in a cemetery capture the interest of tourists and urban explorers instead of Mount Rushmore, U.S.A.

The colossal, abandoned presidential statues in Virginia, famously known as the **Presidents Heads**, once stood proudly at Presidents Park, an outdoor museum near Williamsburg. This unique attraction, featuring 42 massive busts of U.S. presidents from George Washington through George W. Bush, each approximately 15 feet tall and weighing around 1.5 tons, was a testament to American history[1][2].

**A Brief History**

Presidents Park opened its doors in 2004 as an outdoor museum, but it closed its gates in 2010 due to financial struggles[1][2]. After the park's closure, the land was sold, and the statues were scheduled for demolition. However, a twist of fate saw local businessman Howard Hankins, who was contracted to dismantle them, opting instead to transport them to his private industrial recycling facility for safekeeping[1][2].

**Current State**

Today, the statues reside on private property, a stone's throw away from Williamsburg, where they continue to deteriorate. The site is not open to the public without permission, but history enthusiasts John Plashal and Fred Schneider occasionally organize visits, offering a glimpse of these towering presidential figures[1][2][3][5]. The statues have become a social media sensation, attracting history buffs and photographers despite their state of decay[1][2].

**Future Prospects**

Although there is no official plan for the revitalization of Presidents Park or the statues, the ongoing tours and growing public interest have kept the site relevant. The statues' preservation currently depends on private efforts and local enthusiasm[1][2]. Any formal restoration or reintegration into a public park would likely require substantial funding and collaboration between historical organizations, private owners, and possibly government bodies.

For now, the statues remain a poignant, if hidden, roadside attraction and a piece of Americana. The future of these colossal presidential figures remains uncertain, but their legacy continues to captivate visitors and spark curiosity[1][2].

- The park's discreet location, far from tourist sites, contributed to its closure. - The statues have gained significant attention on social media, particularly under the hashtag #presidentshead. - The park was established with an initial investment of $10 million[1].

The ongoing tours and growing public interest have kept the Presidents Heads relevant, drawing a crowd through social media under the hashtag #presidentsheads. Despite residing on private property and being in a state of decay, the statues still serve as a poignant piece of Americana and a captivating roadside attraction for history enthusiasts and photographers.

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