Writers' Colony at Dairy Hollow
History
Two writers, Ned Shank and Crescent Dragonwagon, co-founded the Writers Colony at Dairy Hollow beginning with its transition from a country inn and restaurant (and the first bed and breakfast in Eureka Springs) to a 501(C)3, non-profit creative refuge. "Eureka Springs is an unboundaried, timeless community of readers, writers, artists, and working creative people," says Crescent. "We felt the Colony could give back to some measure of what we had received."
Today
Now over a decade old, WCDH attracts writers from around the world (44 countries) and more than 850 writers throughout the United States. WCDH provides uninterrupted residency time for writers of all genres including songwriters and composers, culinary writers, architects and play writes. WCDH is the only writers colony in the world which not only recognizes culinary writing, both non-fiction and fiction, as a legitimate writing genre, but also provides a state-of-the-art kitchen in our Culinary Suite.
Location
The eclectic, Victorian village of Eureka Springs has been a haven for artists and writers for over a hundred years. Often referred to as "Little Switzerland", Eureka Springs is designated on the National Registry of Historic Places. The winding streets of Eureka Springs are lined with natural springs, galleries, unique shops, outstanding restaurants, and lively music venues. The Colony is nestled in a private wooded hollow designed by nature to nurture the creative process.
As one resident put it, "There is something magical and magnetic about this place...it seems to draw pen to paper even, and especially, when the writer least expects it." Sarah Gray-Panesi May, 2011
Community
WCDH interacts with, and serves as a catalyst for, the wider community to stimulate new thinking and energize creative expression. WCDH is home to several salons, PoetLuck, play Reader's Theater, and vibrant group discussions. One day of community service is an integral part of the WCDH experience for resident writers and those who attend their workshops, classes, readings and seminars. Educational enhancements, fostering literacy, encouraging self-expression, and promoting the development of writer and reading skills (and enjoyment) are just a few of the benefits of our outreach.
Residency & Fellowships
WCDH meets all basic needs, protects quiet, supports focus, and fosters understanding of the creative needs of our writers. The Colony's studios include working space with sleeping quarters, a private bath, fireplace, mini-fridge, microwave, and views of the natural world of the Ozarks. Dinner is served five nights a week, giving residents the opportunity to interact informally with their colleagues. (All for just $55 per night!)
Fellowships are available to fund up to one month per year, paid room and board at the Colony, for one writer in a field designated by the Fellowship donor. We encourage interested writers to check this site regularly for new Fellowships posted.
We also encourage interested donors to contact the Colony to explore funding a dedicated Fellowship.
Current Fellowships are offered in the fields of culinary, architecture and design, nature, children/youth, fiber arts, songwriting/composing, and social change.
