Bronze tactile model of a Pacific Gray Whale and calf is an award-winning addition to the Whale Overlook.
NPS photo
National Accessibility Achievement Award - 2005
The National Park Service (NPS) initiated the National Accessibility Achievement Award Program in 1998 to recognize outstanding accomplishments that result in greater opportunities for persons with disabilities within the NPS.
In October 2005, Cabrillo National Monument was recognized for its efforts in using tactile models and wayside exhibits to help accomplish its mission and forge connections between visitors of all abilities. Special recognition was given to the park Superintendent and Chief of Interpretation for their long-term dedication and commitment to universal design and equal opportunity.
National Park Service Director Fran Mainella stated, “Cabrillo’s accomplishments are not only creative and original; they are an outstanding example of providing effective communications to an extremely diverse audience, including those who have a visual limitation.”
After evaluating the needs of visitors and the need to make emotional and intellectual connections between the resources and visitors, the park designed, fabricated, and installed a variety of tactile models that effectively tell the stories with minimal words.
Tactile Models
Whale Model
Description: The first tactile model installed was a bronze sculpture of a gray whale and calf, mounted at the Whale Overlook.
Purpose: This model gives all visitors a sense of the size, shape, and characteristics of these marine mammals, which migrate past Cabrillo each December through February.
Image: Bronze tactile model of a Pacific Gray Whale and calf at the Whale Overlook. (NPS Photo)
Lighthouse Models
Old Point Loma Lighthouse and Outbuildings
Description: One model contains the lighthouse, its outbuildings, the assistant keeper’s quarters, barn, oil shed, rain catchment basin, and picket fence.
Purpose: Provides a way for visitors to understand the shape and sizes of the various structures and their juxtaposition.
Image: Tactile model of the Old Point Loma Lighthouse and outbuildings. (NPS Photo/Dan Zeller)
Point Loma Peninsula
Description: Illustrates the lighthouse on the end of the Point Loma peninsula and its relationship to the geography of San Diego Bay.
Purpose: Enables visitors to experience the location and orientation of the Old Point Loma Lighthouse.
Image: Bronze tactile model of the Point Loma peninsula. (NPS Photo/Dan Zeller)
Location: Installed in a plaza with an audio station at the end of the walk leading to the lighthouse.
Material: Bronze, chosen for its durability against constant touching, threats of vandalism, and exposure to ocean salt air.
Contributions
Sculptor: Carl Glowienke of Sea Life Sculpture Studio in Santee, California.
Support: Cabrillo National Monument thanks Mrs. Connie Golden and other Cabrillo National Monument Foundation members for their generous contributions which made the tactile models available.
These tactile models are an integral part of making Cabrillo National Monument accessible to all visitors, enhancing the educational and interpretive experience for everyone.
