Dear Neighbor,
The Windsor Castle Park Foundation invites you to become a supporting partner of the Park by joining the "Friends of The Park" annual membership program. Whether you are a resident, a regular user, or an out-of-town visitor, having this beautiful outdoor space to enjoy the natural environment provides the opportunity for life-changing experiences. By becoming a contributing friend, your funds will assist in development of future amenities, programs, and events.
The 208-acre Park became a reality as the result of the visionary skills and dreams of Joseph W. Luter III, former CEO of Smithfield Foods. The land for the riverside park was originally part of the estate of Arthur Smith IV, the founder of Smithfield. Mr. Luter purchased the land, nestled in the heart of downtown and beautifully constructed approximately four miles of walking trails, a one-mile mountain bike trail, fishing pier, state of the art kayak / canoe launch, picnic area with grills, dog park, orchard, five picturesque pedestrian bridges and several overlook resting areas. Dedicated in May of 2010, the land and the developed amenities were a gift of seven million three hundred thousand dollars ($7,300,000) to the Town of Smithfield. Windsor Castle Park will forever stand as the greatest of the many contributions Mr. Luter has bestowed on his hometown.
The Windsor Castle Park Foundation, (WCPF) is comprised of seven members, appointed by Smithfield Town Council, and acts on behalf of the Council to preserve and protect the Park. Development of future amenities, fundraising, promotions of historically related activities, events, and increasing park usage are part of the responsibilities of the Foundation. The Town of Smithfield budgets labor and maintenance for the day-to-day operations of the park.
As members of the Windsor Castle Park Foundation Board of Directors, we have come to appreciate the importance of what the Park means to our community – now and for generations to come. As a community, we face the task of future planning and incorporating uses for a diverse population. We have identified the need for a children’s playground and are currently researching design options. The potential for community involvement and enhancement is unlimited. As we approach the first anniversary of the Park, it has already had a positive impact on many people’s lives. There are high school service clubs participating in park clean-ups, Eagle Scout Projects, various fundraising events and celebrations of weddings and concerts being held at the park. The Master Naturalists are using the park to advance their mission of becoming a local chapter. Thousands upon thousands of steps whether walked, jogged, or just relaxed strolls have been taken on the trails. If you have not visited this picturesque park, we cordially invite you to do so in the very near future.
Through your donations, it will be possible to ensure that Windsor Castle Park continues to be a shinning example of what great people can do when they work together. We, respectfully, ask you to consider giving.
Thank you and see you at the Park,
Windsor Castle Park Foundation
