Date: October 13, 2006
Contact: Mike Kusch, 315-336-4448
Fort Stanwix National Monument received excellent marks for visitor satisfaction, as well as for their understanding of the fort’s national significance. The National Park Service, in partnership with the University of Idaho, conducted a survey during July 2006 asking visitors to grade the park’s performance. 400 survey questionnaires were randomly distributed to visitors throughout the month; with 88 people responding. After visiting the site the visitors graded the park’s performance, and mailed the survey in a self-addressed envelop to the university. During July people from throughout the United States and several foreign countries toured Fort Stanwix.
The results: 97% of visitors were satisfied with their overall visit and the site’s facilities, while 96% demonstrated understanding of the fort’s national significance. But that is not the number that is impressive. A whopping 99% rated the assistance from park employees as "Good" or "Very Good."
Ken Mabery, Park Superintendent, stated, “We are very excited about these impressive results. The park’s staff and volunteers, in partnership with the Oneida Indian Nation’s Living History Department, are doing an excellent job and visitors are recognizing it.” Mabery continued, “the City of Rome should not only be proud of the service the park is providing, but also proud of itself since visitors often rate their entire experience, both inside and out of the park.”
Other impressive results to take pride in include: 97% thought the VisitorCenter and Exhibits were "Good" or "Very Good;" 98% found the Restrooms "Good" or "Very Good;" and 91% rated their visit as "Very Good." Only two people out of the 88 respondents rated their visit as "Poor," and no one rated their visit as "Very Poor."
“Everyone should pat themselves on the back,” concluded Mabery. “We are proving that working together we can compete with heritage tourism attractions anywhere else in the country. And, we are looking forward the new and repeat visitors who will be coming because their family and friends said this was a great place to come.”
Fort Stanwix National Monument is open seven days a week 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Days. Admission to the Marinus Willett Center and Fort are free. Visitors are encouraged to start their experience at the Marinus Willett Center at the intersection of West Dominick and James Streets. A park ranger can assist you in planning your visit. For more information about upcoming events call the park at (315) 338-7730. Please visit the park's web page at www.nps.gov/fost for additional information.
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