Diane Wilbon Parks named inaugural Poet-in-Residence at Marietta
Marietta Historic Site & Museum has named Diane Wilbon Parks as our Poet-in-Residence. The fall 2026 appointment marks the start of our four-month partnership with the literary artist who is dedicated to interpreting the history of the enslaved families, the grounds, and the community's legacy. She will dig into the site’s complex history, which includes the intersecting lives of the enslaving and enslaved families who lived and labored at Marietta-as the foundation of her new creative works.
“I am deeply honored to step into the role of the first Poet-in-Residence at Marietta House,” said Wilbon Parks. “The appointment of this residency means the world to me, because I believe in the new direction in which the Marietta Historic Site & Museum is moving regarding the legacy, history, and sacrifice of the enslaved. I am honored to be a part of their huge initiative to elevate the enslaved community and give voice to the enslaved through poetic interpretation. My vision is to incorporate literary works on the grounds, inside the museum, and within the pages of a chapbook or booklet to honor the enslaved.”
Wilbon Parks is an award-winning poet and literary advocate. She has published two poetry books and a children’s book and has authored and co-authored several poetry collections. She was featured in The Poet & The Poem from the Library of Congress, and her work is in their recorded collection. One of her poems and artwork were installed at the North Patuxent Research Refuge to enhance the butterfly garden. She resides in Prince George’s County with her family.
For more information, please call 301-464-5291 or email mariettahouse@pgparks.com. Marietta Historic Site & Museum is located at 5626 Bell Station Road, Glenn Dale, MD, and is a property of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission.