Fort Ward History Workgroup Farewell

Dear Fort Ward Park Workgroup Members,

I hope this note finds you well.  It has been quite some time since we lasted gathered as the draft management plan has been prepared, revised and agreed up turning the results of our research into actions that will better identify, protect, interpret and make accessible the history and culture of Fort Ward Park.

This evening  two-thirds of the Fort Ward Park and Museum Advisory Group voted to approve the Fort Ward Park and Museum Final Draft Management Plan and send it forward for more public review and eventual consideration by the Alexandria City Council.  The plan, although not unanimously supported creates a different direction for Fort Ward Park and the stewardship of those departments charged with it’s care and services to the public.

When I accepted your nomination as Co-Chair of the Fort Ward History Workgroup it was with the caveat that I would work with Co-Chair Adrienne Terrell Washington for a while.  Recently I let Adrienne know that I am stepping down from my role with the workgroup so that I might concentrate my time on the activities of the Fort Ward and Seminary Descendants Society, Inc.

As you know the workgroup was created through City Council resolution by the Office of Historic Alexandria as “an experiment” in community involvement.  Our groups work exceeded the expectations of OHA Director Mallamo and, as you know, resulted in an award from the City of Alexandria for the work we did to help the Fort Ward effort.  You may also know that the  final draft management plan contains recommendations for reconfiguring the workgroup to meet further research needs.

Please know that I thoroughly enjoyed our collaborative research work at Fort Ward.  It was a pleasure to work with you and I hope there may be an opportunity to work together again.  Should you be interested in participating in the research work of the Descendants Society at Fort Ward and, or, within the Seminary community please let me know.

May you have continued success in your work.  Thank you.

Glenn

J. Glenn Eugster

703-489-4207

glenn_eugster@comcast.net

1.