Move Outside and Become Junior Rangers

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Date: April 2, 2013
Contact: Joanne Gangi-Wellman, (413) 348-4810

SPRINGFIELD, MA - Bring your family and friends to explore the twenty-two acres of Springfield Armory National Historic Site and the Armory museum.Numerous special experiences for young people will be offered throughout April school vacation and National Park Weeks from April 13 to 27, 2013. Admission is free.

"This year, the interpretive staff and volunteers are excited to bring children outdoors as part of the National Park Service initiative to "Move Outside" and explore the fascinating world of nature just outside the doors of our historic site," explains Joanne M. Gangi-Wellman, Chief of Interpretation at Springfield Armory National Historic Site. "Getting outside is not only healthy, it makes visitors aware of the beautiful grounds of the Historic Site and the importance of the grounds and buildings to the Armory's firearm story," she said.

Special programing will focus on the trees at Springfield Armory. Why did the Armory workers plant the trees they did? How can you "read" a tree to tell if it is healthy or needs attention?Which species of trees were used to make the gun stocks of Armory firearms? Springfield Armory Arborist, Christopher Dube and other Park Rangers will lead tree walks and indoor tree activities twice a day on the weekends and once a day during the week. For outdoor walks, visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes, and to bring water and insect repellant.

After moving outdoors, young people are encouraged to head inside after the tree experience to participate in Junior Ranger activities. To honor our diverse heritage, children choose from a selection of engaging endeavors, including Armory themed puzzles, a word search, and two museum searches that explore the evolution of firearms. Participants will earn a Junior Ranger badge, certificate, and a prize after completing one of these activities.

The Springfield Armory National Historic Site is the location of the nation's first armory (1794 - 1968) and was established by George Washington. The site includes historic grounds, buildings, and the world's largest historic American military firearms collection. The park is open daily from 9am - 5pm. There is ample parking and the building is wheelchair accessible. For further information and weather cancelation call 413-734-8551 or check the website at www.nps.gov/spar.

- NPS -



Last updated: February 26, 2015

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Springfield Armory National Historic Site
One Armory Square
Suite 2

Springfield, MA 01105

Phone:

413 734-8551
The phone is answered during museum operating hours. All other times callers will be prompted to leave a voice message that will be received and responded to during museum operating hours.

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