My Valley Forge Story: Jenn McMenamin

One of the many huts at Valley Forge.

NPS/ Jenn McMenamin

Jenn McMenamin was the Facilitiy Manger at Valley Forge from 2008-2024. Jenn answered a few qustions about her time here.

What does Valley Forge mean to you?

Perseverance, not only from the soldiers and families that camped here, but the staff that protect these resources every day. From Washingtons encampment to the staff today, the grit and determination to keep going is alive and well at Valley Forge NHP.

How has Valley Forge played a role in your life?

Gratitude - Gratitude is the Hearts Memory - and I am FOREVER Grateful for the opportunity to be tasked with taking care of this beautiful, meaningful park. VAFO has shaped me as a person, allowing me to appreciate the beauty and serenity in the park but also by putting people in my life that have made a lasting impression on my heart.By having Nat-GEO moments, being paid to view sunrises and sunsets, storytelling about the things visitors do. I have truly been blessed in my 30+ years with the park service to experience so many wonderful things and to meet so many wonderful people.

Why are you invested in public service and working for your public lands like Valley Forge?

To quote:

"I think there's no higher calling in terms of a career than public service, which is a chance to make a difference in people's lives and improve the world. "
Jacob Lew

5 baby foxes around their den.

NPS/ Jenn McMenamin

Do you have a funny or memorable moments working with a visitors/groups of people/ other colleagues?

Meeting a standing president, having my first ghost encounters, working with the Deltas to improve monument area, Father and son visiting the “battle”, Lots of Natational Geographic moments!

Tags: valley forge national historical park, my valley forge story, vf50, 50 years of valley forge,