For a century, Wheeling Park has been the heart of our community—a place where generations have gathered to celebrate, play, and create cherished memories. As we mark 100 years of Wheeling’s beloved playground, it’s not just a celebration of the past but a thrilling look into the future. The park has always been a gift to the people, and now, with recent renovations and a bright vision ahead, it’s ready to inspire for another century!
A Vision Realized
Back in the 1920s, Wheeling was booming, but something was missing: a place where people from all walks of life could come together and enjoy nature, recreation, and community. Enter local heroes like Otto Schenk and W.E. Stone, who saw the park’s potential and turned their dream into a reality. Their relentless fundraising and community support transformed the Hornbrook estate into Wheeling Park, opening to the public on May 30, 1925. Over 10,000 people came to celebrate the grand opening, marveling at the playgrounds, golf course, and beautiful picnic areas.
[Published by I. & M. Ottenheimer, Baltimore, Md., no date]– from the postcard collection of the Ohio County Public Library Archives
A Community That Never Gave Up
The journey hasn’t always been easy. From the beginning, park commissioners had their hands full coming up with funds for necessary improvements and additional facilities at the long-neglected park. When the Wheeling Park Casino burned in 1925, the White Palace was constructed in its place. The community’s love and determination rebuilt it even stronger. Wheeling Park has been a living testament to our resilience, and it has grown alongside us, adding features and evolving to meet new generations’ needs.
Celebrating Renovations and Looking to the Future
In May 2023, Wheeling Park unveiled stunning renovations to the White Palace, marking the first major project in preparation for the park’s 100th anniversary. The $3.2 million renovation brought a fresh and exciting look to the beloved landmark. Visitors can now enjoy a modern coffee shop, a charming outdoor patio perfect for gatherings, a grand staircase that adds a touch of elegance, and ballroom improvements with updated wall treatments, stage décor, and a new sound system. The teen center and game room have been transformed, and the nearby J.B. Chambers Memorial Ice Rink features roller skating, roller hockey, and pickleball courts, thanks to generous community support.
These upgrades are just the beginning, with more investments planned to ensure Wheeling Park remains a vibrant hub for future generations!
Celebrate in Style at the White Palace Gala
The 100th-anniversary celebration kicks off with the White Palace Gala on Saturday, December 7, at 6:00 PM. In December of 1925, 170 donors raised the money to keep our park from being developed, and we are here 100 years later to celebrate! This elegant evening will transport guests through the history of Wheeling Park, with music, gourmet food, and interactive experiences that will make you feel part of the park’s rich story. “The Wheeling Park 100 Gala promises to be an unforgettable evening, but it’s more than just the best party of the season, it’s a chance to help shape the future of our beloved park. Proceeds from the event will fund important projects including revitalizing the Frank Rock Garden, planting 100 trees for our centennial, parking lot beautification, and adding public art.
At its core, this gala is about preserving Wheeling Park as the heart of our community, where traditions like Funfest Fridays bring us together to celebrate, relax, and enjoy life. By supporting the gala, you’ll be contributing to this important legacy while celebrating everything that makes Wheeling Park so special. Join us as we commemorate this milestone and look forward to an even brighter future for the park,” Michael Hires, director of annual giving & communications for the Oglebay Foundation said.
The gala promises to be a night full of nostalgia, joy, and dreams for the next 100 years. You can get your tickets here!
Join the Centennial Celebration!
Wheeling Park has always been a place that brings us together. As we celebrate this incredible milestone for the big centennial celebration in 2025, we want to hear from you. What do you hope to see in the next 100 years of Wheeling Park? How can we make sure it remains a place for community connection and joy? What are your favorite memories at Wheeling Park? Did you learn to skate at the ice rink, picnic with loved ones by the lakes, or celebrate a wedding in the iconic White Palace? What are the stories you’ll tell your children or grandchildren about this incredible place?
Drop a comment, share a story, or come join the celebration at the gala. This is our park—a shared history that has shaped who we are as a community, and a future that we’re building together!
