Donate to build a permanent outdoor exhibit about Black folk artist Nellie Mae Rowe.

Nellie Mae Rowe was born in Fayette County, Georgia in 1900. In 1930 Nellie and her husband Ben Wheat moved to Vinings. After Ben’s death, Nellie married Henry “Buddy” Rowe in 1936. Three years later, the couple built a clapboard house along Paces Ferry Road. The house would eventually be transformed into what Nellie called her “playhouse.” Nellie devoted herself to the creation of art, using a variety of materials to create paintings, drawings, sculptures, and outdoor decorations. Over the next few decades, thousands of people traveled to Vinings to see Nellie’s playhouse. Although her playhouse was eventually torn down, efforts are underway to mark the site.

Cobb Landmarks is partnering with Kennesaw State University, Vinings Village Homeowners Association, The Judith Alexander Foundation, and High Museum of Art to produce a permanent outdoor exhibit about Rowe at the former site of her playhouse. We are currently seeking funds to produce weatherproof exhibit panels detailing Rowe’s legacy and her artwork.