News Release

Harpers Ferry NHP Seeks New Ideas for Cook Hall

NPS/C. Hassler

News Release Date: May 1, 2026 The National Park Service (NPS) is seeking ideas for potential uses of historic Cook Hall. The NPS invites individuals, educational institutions, government agencies, nonprofit and for-profit organizations to share their ideas by responding to a Request for Expression of Interest (RFEI). 

Constructed in 1940 as a dormitory for Storer College, the 9,970-square-foot Cook Hall is located steps from the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. The RFEI presents a unique opportunity to give this historic property a new use while preserving its character and supporting the mission and values of the National Park Service. NPS encourages new ideas and reuse concepts that enhance services for park visitors and support either seasonal or year-round occupancy. 

NPS invites interested parties to schedule a site visit in May or June 2026. NPS staff will be on hand to answer questions about the facility and associated grounds. Parties wishing to visit the site must RSVP to [e-mail] at least two business days prior to the arrival date. 

Interested parties wishing to respond to the RFEI are encouraged to:  

• View the webpage to review background materials, including photographs and property documentation
• Download and review the RFEI for full submission criteriaand
• Send questions about the property or RFEI process to [e-mail].  

Responses must be submitted electronically no later than 11:59 p.m. EDT on Monday, Aug. 31, 2026, to [e-mail].