My final week at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park was bittersweet. I was excited by how much I accomplished, but sad to see the experience come to an end.
The urge to dig deeper into my research while I had the chance conflicted with an equal urge to start capturing ideas on paper. The latter won.
On most days during October I spent some time working in a public spot. I enjoyed answering questions and chatting about the Artist-In-Residence program with visitors.
My dwindling days also compelled me to revisit favorite spots.
One of the best things about spending a month in Harpers Ferry was the opportunity to see the park in different moods.
I’m grateful to the park staff and volunteers who so generously shared their knowledge and skills.
Integrating a writer/volunteer into the National Park Service system for a month is no small task. Ranger Samantha, Volunteer Coordinator, ensured that I was warmly welcomed, and that all needs were met.
I’m especially grateful to these two wonderful women. Cathy Baldeau (left) is the Executive Director of the Harpers Ferry Park Association, a position formerly held by Debbie Piscitelli (right). These dynamos made my visit possible.
I went to Harpers Ferry to research lesser-known stories and teach writing workshops. My residency was also about encouraging visitors to consider that wandering such special places can be inspirational as well as informative.
I was certainly inspired anew!
Tags: harpers ferry national historical park, Harpers Ferry Park Association, Writer-in-Residence
Sites and Stories 
November 5, 2021 at 4:17 pm |
What beautiful views and trees. Fall in Wisconsin was not as colorful this year.
November 5, 2021 at 6:12 pm |
Nijole, it was beautiful. They’ve had a dry year, and autumn seemed to be about two weeks behind average, but I got lucky with that gorgeous maple tree glowing outside my window!