National Park Service
2005 Park Visitor Information

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Northeast Region

Eisenhower NHS

Eisenhower National Historic Site, Pennsylvania:
Fifties Weekend – (June 11-12) Revisit the popular culture of the 1950s. See Detroit’s finest 1950s cars, Rock and Roll, Hula-Hoop and more. Included in site admission. Contact: Visitor Information (717) 338-9114.
Hike with Ike – (June 16 - August 11) Join a park ranger for a walk through downtown Gettysburg to learn about the Eisenhower’s life in this community. Thursday evenings, 7:15 pm. Meet at the Gettysburg College gates at North Washington and Water Streets. Contact: Visitor Information (717) 338-9114.

Independence National Historical Park, Pennsylvania:
"Once Upon a Nation" – (May 28) “Once Upon a Nation” is an effort by Historic Philadelphia, Inc. (HPI) to provide storytellers and other activities in the historic area. Long a partner with the park in providing costumed reenactors in parts of the park, HPI is expanding that role to include other activities in the historic area.
Philly Pops concert and relighting of Independence Hall – (July 3) Because of reconstruction of Independence Mall, Independence Hall has not been lit at night for several years. The relighting will be showcased in conjunction with the second annual patriotic concert in front of Independence Hall by Peter Nero and the Philly Pops.
Liberty Medal Ceremony – (July 4) Independence Hall. Each year, a leader is recognized for contributions to freedom. Past winners of the Liberty Medal have included President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan (2004), Colin Powell, Lech Walesa, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan and Justice Sandra Day O'Connor.
Dedication of Independence Living History Center and archeology conservation area – (October, date TBA)to coincide with Archeology Month.
Contact: Phil Sheridan, 215-597-0060.

Cape Cod NS
Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts:
Champlain 1605: A Snapshot of Prehistoric Cape Cod- (May 7, 2005) Between 1604 and 1607 Samuel de Champlain and an expedition of French explorers traveled theNew England coastline from Canada to Cape Cod.  Champlain extensively mapped several harbors along Cape Cod, including Nauset in 1605. He participated in encounters with local Native people, and his journal entries provide a rare glimpse of Native life here. On May 7, 2005, Cape Cod National Seashore will host a symposium to explore the legacy of Champlain’s explorations. A gathering of scholars will reflect on the meaning and consequences of the event to maritime exploration, archeological investigation and contact between cultures. Featured presenters:  Francis McManamon, Ramona Peters, Steven Pendery, Fred Dunford, James Bradley. Field sessions include a guided canoe trip on Nauset Marsh, an archeological overview of Fort Hill, and a hands-on program about mapping technology. Contact:  Sue Moynihan (508) 349-3785 x 230 or Bill Burke (508) 255-6135
Rehabilitation of Salt Pond Visitor Center Nears Completion - (Spring 2005) Following several years of planning and two years of construction, the $3 million project to rehabilitate Salt Pond Visitor Center is nearing completion. The project has achieved a number of goals: bring the building up to code by upgrading utility systems, remove lead paint and asbestos, and install fire exits and fire detection and suppression systems; improve handicapped access; reduce pollutants entering Salt Pond from the park septic system; repair and replace mechanical systems and failing infrastructure; and reconfigure spaces to provide better service to the public and provide more restrooms for the convenience of visitors. Contact:  Sue Moynihan or Lauren McKean 508-349-4795.

Edison NHS

Minuteman National Historical Park, Massachusetts:
His Majesty’s 1^st Regiment, Foot Guards, the Hartwell Tavern – (May 14, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) Sent to America in July of 1776 as part of a “Brigade of Guards,” a collection of elite units of the British Army, the 1^st Regiment Foot Guards served their King and Country faithfully through many bloody campaigns from New York to Virginia, finally surrendering with Cornwallis at Yorktown. Come and visit with the re-enactors who portray this proud regiment. Watch them perform 18^th century military maneuvers. See their uniforms and equipment and learn about life in the British Army during the American War for Independence. Contact: Visitor Information (978) 369-6993.
Memorial Day Concert – (May 30, 2 p.m.) The park will host a concert by the United States Air Force Band at the Minute Man Visitor Center.
The Wayside through the Eyes of Children, At the Wayside: Home of Authors – (September 11, 1:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.) Listen to the Concord Junior Volunteers’ portrayal of a young Louisa and Elizabeth Alcott, Rose Hawthorne and Margaret Lothrop as the girls speak of their favorite childhood memories of The Wayside. The program is based on journals, letters, writings and biographies of the three famous literary families who called The Wayside their home. This program is presented in association with the Concord Junior Volunteers. Contact: Visitor Information (978) 369-6993.
Return to Concord of the “Hancock” cannon – Minute Man National Historical Park recently welcomed back a famed piece of history, a brass cannon known as the “Hancock.” Documentary evidence strongly suggests this cannon, which will be on loan to the park through the generosity of the Bunker Hill Monument Association, was among the munitions sought by British troops sent to Concord in April 1775 and thought to be hidden at Colonel James Barrett’s Farm.  The cannon will remain on view at the North Bridge Visitor Center for an initial loan period of 18 months.  Contact:  Melissa Saalfield, 978-318-7822.

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, Pennsylvania:
Sheep Shearing Day (May 8) - Hand and mechanical shearing methods are demonstrated as we illustrate the important role of farming in the daily life and business activities of an iron plantation.  Find out about the many steps needed to make a “simple” wool shirt.
Summer Programs, (Late June to September) - You can experience a 19th century iron making community, its lifestyles, and operations.  Activities will vary daily.  For additional details please call the park at 610-582-8773. 
Establishment Day (August 6 and 7) - On the anniversary of the establishment of this park we will demonstrate the art and mystery of charcoal making.  Colliers were well paid in the 19th century, but today we make charcoal with the support of many volunteers.  Come see this historic trade being preserved.
Apple Sales (Daily starting September 10) - Select and pick your own apples from over 30 varieties grown in our historic orchard and learn about the agricultural history of Hopewell Furnace.  (Availability of varieties depends upon the success of our growing season.  Call ahead for more information)
Harvest Time (September 17) - Enjoy the excitement of the fall harvest as apple butter and lots of fun are cooked up.  This industrial community required the cooperative efforts of many people, especially women.  Demonstrations will highlight the roles of women during the fall harvest. Everyone is invited to pick apples, watch the farm animals, learn a little historic gossip, and help stir the apple butter.
Iron Plantation Christmas (December 3) -- Christmas has been celebrated in many ways through the years at Hopewell Furnace.  We invite you to gather with us to share the echoes and glimpses of Christmas and the various ways it was observed.

Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, New York:
"Presidential K-9's:  A Dog's Tale" will be held at the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt NHS on May 7 from 1-5 pm.  The afternoon will feature a historical look at the presidents and their pooches, particularly FDR and his beloved Scottish Terrier, Fala.  There will be booths on grooming and responsible dog care, and contests. The event includes the unveiling of replicas of 2 historic Roosevelt dog houses produced by the Dutchess County BOCES from a historic photograph.  Contact:  845-229-9115

Gettysburg NMP

Gettysburg National Military Park , Pennsylvania:
Groundbreaking event – On the morning of June 2, Gettysburg National Military Park and its partner, the Gettysburg National Battlefield Museum Foundation, will hold a groundbreaking event for the new museum and visitor center.  Event details are still being developed.  Contact:  Katie Lawhon, 717-334-1124, x452.

Weir Farm National Historic Site, Connecticut:
Art Classes for Children – Summer art classes for children at Weir Farm National Historic Site in Wilton fill up fast, so aspiring young artists, ages 6-12, should enroll soon if they want to participate in the park’s Art Explorer programs.  Weir Farm’s outstanding instructors will use the landscape and site history to encourage all young artists as they become engaged in learning new methods and techniques to express their creativity.  Classes are offered in age specific groups are held rain or shine from July 6-August 19.  Children can choose from two and three-day workshops to a week-long class, all of which run in two-hour sessions.  Registration is by mail or in person.  Contact the park at:  203/761-9945.

Booker T. Washington NM

Boston National Historical Park, Massachusetts:
Tall Ship at the Charlestown Navy Yard – (May 28 and 29) Visit the majestic Chilean Tall Ship LaEsmeralda at Pier 1 in the Charlestown Navy Yard at Boston National Historical Park on Memorial Day Weekend. The National Park Service visiting ship program has hosted hundreds of visiting naval vessels and Class A Tall Ships since its inception in 1976. Contact: 617-242-5601.
USS Constitution Sunset Parade –(July 2) Free outdoor event for the whole family. Experience a traditional military sunset parade conducted right next to USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world. Various military and civilian units will participate in this evening program. For further information call the USS Constitution Special Events Office at 617-242-2543.
Icon Park Ark –(July 2-October 10) A Boston National Historical Park/Institute of Contemporary Art “Artist-in-Residence at Boston National Historical Park” installation piece on Pier 1 in the  Charlestown Navy Yard. Free and open to the public. On Saturday, July 2 there will be family-focused opening festivities, including art-making activities, music, storytelling, puppetry and more. For more information call (617) 242-5601.
Annual Boston Harborfest Celebration – (June 30 through July 5) Programs will include indoor and outdoor educational adult and family activities that reflect the history of the people and places of the American Revolution, the city of Boston, and the Charlestown Navy Yard. Admission is free. Contact: 617-242-5601.

Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, Virginia:
Speech by Doctor George Rable on the Battle of Fredericksburg – (May 28, 6 p.m.)
Fredericksburg National Cemetery Luminaria –(May 28, 8 p.m. - 11 p.m ) The luminaria features the lighting of 15,300 candles-one for each soldier buried at Fredericksburg National Cemetary.    
Sunken Road History Da y- (May 29, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.) Events include a variety of programs including ranger-guided walking tours, children’s programs, living history, weapons firing demonstrations, and Civil War music.
           Sunken Road Dedication Program - (May 29, 2 p.m.)
          Tour of Fredericksburg National Cemetery - (May 29, 9 a.m.)
           Memorial Day Commemorative - (May 29, 11 a.m.) Program at Fredericksburg National            Cemetery. Contact Donald Pfanz: 540-372-3031.

Gateway National Recreation Area, New York:
Sandy Hook Coastal Defenses Day - (May 22) Noon to 4 p.m. Tour the gun batteries and defenses built on Sandy Hook, including a living history recreation of operations at WWII-era Battery Gunnison. Discover how Sandy Hook’s fortifications defended New York Harbor from the concrete gun batteries of the 1890s to the Nike missile defenses of the 1970s.
Cold War Day - (September 25) - Noon to 4 p.m. Visit a Nike Missile radar site restored to the time of the Cuban Missile Crisis.  See Cold War era military displays.  Veterans of Fort Hancock welcome.
Fort Hancock Day – (October 30) - Noon to 4 p.m.  Events mark the 1895 anniversary of the establishment of Fort Hancock.  Tours and open houses led by park staff and volunteers through the day explore the fort and its defenses that protected New York Harbor.

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, Vermont:
Ranger-led walks and talks -A variety of ranger-led walks and talks are offered daily from early May through October. These include historic Mansion and garden tours, art tours, forest walks, and a variety of other programs. Reservations are recommended - please call (802) 457-3368 x22.
Conservation Through the Artist's Eye - American landscape paintings have inspired conservationists for over 100 years. See paintings by Hudson River School artists. On this 1.5-hour walk through the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller Mansion, discover how their landscape paintings profoundly influenced the development of a conservation ethic.
The Formal Garden and Beyond - Explore the park's colorful gardens and grounds on this 1.5-hour walk. More than beautiful scenery, the landscape reflects layers of careful design that are linked to the conservation movement in the 19th century.
Reflections of Nature in Art and Literature - This program will explore the impact of nature on American art and literature. Featured works will include Hudson River School paintings in the Mansion as well as the writings of James Fenimore Cooper, Washington Irving, and Robert Frost. This 2-hour program will take place indoors and also outdoors in the hillside gardens.
Causes & Consequences: The Civil War Home Front in Woodstock, Vermont - Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park will once again provide walking tours of Woodstock's Civil War "home front." To bring these home front stories to life, this ranger-guided tour includes some of the most significant historic sites in Woodstock. Included are places associated with the Underground Railroad, abolition meetings, the town's free African-American community, and Woodstock's pivotal role in the Union war effort in Vermont. Much of what will be seen along the tour is largely unchanged from the day the first shot was fired on Fort Sumter in April, 1861.  The tour also examines the birth of the national park concept and modern stewardship with the preservation of Yosemite in 1864 and the concurrent publication of George Perkins Marsh's Man and Nature. Contact: 802- 457-3368, x22.

Martin Van Buren National Historic Site, New York:
Harvest Day at Lindenwald -  (September 24) The park will host Harvest Day, a day-long educational event at Lindenwald, the home and farm of President Martin Van Buren. The day celebrates the importance of agriculture to our eighth president and its continued importance to Columbia County, New York where the Van Buren site is located.  Throughout his more than 30 years in politics Van Buren continuously kept the interests of agriculture and farmers in mind. He once wrote, "a more estimable class of men than the farmers and planters of the United States is not to be found in the world." The President was, himself, an enthusiastic farmer during the 21 years he resided at Lindenwald.  Harvest Day is made possible by numerous individuals and groups including the Friends of Lindenwald, Roxbury Farm and others.  The day’s activities will run from 1:00am to 5:00pm and will provide an opportunity to learn farmland protection strategies, observe farm crafts and skills and explore the agricultural history of President Van Buren's residence. There were sheep shearing demonstrations, butter churning, horseshoeing, advice on canning and preserving your harvest, hayrides, a milking demonstration and even beer making with hops that were grown by Martin Van Buren. There will be musical entertainment. Contact Daniel J. Dattilio, (518) 758-9689.

Saratoga National Historical Park, New York:
Guided Bike Tours – Magnificent scenery and stories of 1777, mark one of the best ways to experience Saratoga Battlefield. Join park volunteers Kyle and Lynn Jenks for guided bike tours as follows: Saturday May 21 at 1pm; Wednesday June 15 at 6pm; Wednesday July 13 at 6pm; Wednesday August 17 at 6pm and Saturday September 18 at 1pm. Please wear helmets, bring water and snacks. Call ahead for details.
Battles of Saratoga 228 Anniversary - Stillwater Heritage Days – (September 17 & 18, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) Cannons boom, muskets crack and campfires burn as 50+ re-enactors from the 25^th Continental Regiment and Oneida Indian Nation bring to life the 1777 events that forged American Independence. Discuss battle strategy with officers, witness a court-martial, learn stitching styles and open-fire cooking recipes, or join the rebel cause and take part in mock military drills.  Contact Gina Johnson, 518.664.9821ext.227.

Shenandoah NP

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia:
Wildflower Weekend – (May 7-8) Take a day or two to appreciate the diversity of wildflowers growing here in the Blue Ridge. More than 1,300 species of plants thrive in Shenandoah National Park, a mountain island surrounded by farmland, towns, and expanding developed areas. The park is a haven for native woodland wildflowers. Programs include a celebration of International Migratory Bird Day, featured speaker, hikes to wildflower, wildflower identification for beginners, etc. Contact: Visitor Information (540) 999-3500.
Butterfly Count –(July 10) Volunteers will spend the day exploring a 15-mile-diameter circle in search of nature's best-dressed insects as a part of the 9^th annual Butterfly Count sponsored by the North American Butterfly Association (NABA).   NABA requires a $3-per-person participant fee for participants age 12 and older.  Contact Mara Meisel, (540) 999-3282.
Wilderness Weekend– (October 15-16) Shenandoah National Park will honor America’s wilderness heritage during its 5th annual Wilderness Weekend, October 15 – 16, 2005. Celebrate wilderness and enjoy fall foliage by viewing Shenandoah’s wilderness from Skyline Drive, hiking a wilderness trail, joining a ranger program or stopping by a visitor center.  All programs are included in the park entrance fee. Contact: Visitor Information (540)-999-3500.
Christmas Bird Count –(December 18) Volunteers spend the day exploring a 15-mile-diameter circle spotting for birds to help National Audubon Society learn about bird population trends as part of the 36^th annual “Christmas” Bird Count.  The National Audubon Society requires a $5-per-person participant fee over age 18.   Contact Mara Meisel, (540) 999-3282.

Fort McHenry

Women's Rights National Historical Park, New York:
25^th anniversary - (July) 2005 marks the 25^th anniversary of the establishment of Women’s Rights National Historical Park.  Annually, the community of Seneca Falls and the park celebrate Convention Days to mark the anniversary of the 1848 first women’s rights convention in the United States.  The culminating event of the week will be a Founders’ Day reception on July 23.  This reception, cosponsored by the Friends of Women’s Rights National Historical Park, will be open to the public and feature honored guests who played critical roles in the establishment and development of the park. Contact:  Tina Orcutt, 315-568-2991.

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