Hands on Kids’ Artillery Program

August 20, 2007

For: Immediate Release

Contact: Charles E. Fenwick, 912-786-5787

August 25, Hands-on Kids’ Artillery Program to Celebrate Birth of National Park Service

Fort Pulaski National Monument will be offering children an opportunity to play the role of Civil War cannoneers on an authentic Civil War cannon on Saturday, August 25, 2007. Using historically accurate implements, a park ranger will guide the children through the drill used by Civil War soldiers to load and fire cannon. There will be no explosives involved.

The kids' artillery programs will follow the actual firing of a reproduction cannon by Fort Pulaski's cannon crew. The special artillery program is being planned for Founder’s Day, which celebrates the birth of the National Park Service and will honor Fort Pulaski’s role as a turning point in military history. Formed in 1916, the National Park Service is an agency of the federal government that is chartered to conserve the scenery and historical resources of the nation unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.

Fort Pulaski is one of 391 units now embraced by the National Park System. These units range from natural wonders—like Grand Canyon National Park and Everglades National Park—to places that commemorate famous historical events—like Independence National Historic Site in Philadelphia and Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site in Atlanta—to sites of military significance—like Valley Forge National Historical Park and Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park.

"The National Park System safeguards America’s treasures,’’ said Fort Pulaski Superintendent Charles E. Fenwick. "This is a great day for families to visit Savannah’s National Park and join us in celebrating the Park Service’s 91 years of service to America."

A birthday cake will be served at the Fort Pulaski visitor center to commemorate Founder’s Day. The activity schedule for Saturday, August 25, is as follows:

10:00 Guided Fort Tour

11:00 Cannon Firing

11:30 Kids’ Cannon Drill

12:00 Cannon Firing

12:30 Kids’ Cannon Drill

1:00 Musket and Soldier Demonstration

2:00 Cannon Firing

2:30 Kids’ Cannon Drill

2:30 Guided Fort Tour

3:00 Musket and Soldier Demonstration

3:30 Cannon Firing

4:00 Kids’ Cannon Drill