Date: March 10, 2017
Contact: Will Wilson, 423-752-5213x137
Fort Oglethorpe, GA: As the National Park Service enters its second century of service, volunteers across the country will again answer their nation’s call to service. On Saturday, April 1, 2017, history enthusiasts, community leaders, and preservationists will team up with the Civil War Trust at more than 130 historic sites in 30 states to participate in the 21st annual Park Day.
Since its inception in 1996, Park Day has attracted volunteers of all ages and abilities bound by their dedication to serving their communities. In 2016, nearly 6,000 volunteers at 130 historic sites across the country donated more than 36,000 service hours. This year, organizers hope to build on these impressive figures.
At Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park, volunteers are needed to help build a historic fence at McDonald Farm, clean monuments and tablets along Battleline Road, and clear the understory between Battleline Road and Confederate artillery positions. Sign-up will start at 8:30 am in the lower parking lot of the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center. Participants are encouraged to come dressed for outdoor work. For safety reasons and due to the nature of the work, clothing should include long-sleeved shirts, long pants, tennis shoes or work boots. The park will provide volunteers with gloves and other personal protective equipment. Please prepare for the sun with a cap, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle. Water and light snacks will also be provided. Projects will conclude by noon.
An interpretive program, entitled “Advancing Too Far,” will be provided by park staff at 2 pm. Please meet the park ranger inside the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center to begin this 90-minute program.
For more information about Park Day at Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, please contact Will Wilson, Volunteer Coordinator, at 423-752-5213 ext. 137 or at will_wilson@nps.gov.
