Where’s HECO?
Andersonville National Historic Site
HECO Engineers, an Idaho-based engineering firm committed to creating inclusive and accessible spaces, recently had the privilege of visiting the Andersonville National Historic Site in Georgia. We value our collaboration with the National Park Service (NPS) and the shared goal of preserving and enhancing historic sites for the benefit of the community. This blog post recounts our experience at Andersonville and emphasizes the significance of community engagement in historical preservation.
Unveiling the Vision
Creating Space and Enhancing Community Spaces
During our visit, HECO Engineers had the opportunity to meet with representatives from the NPS to gain insights into their vision for the area surrounding the National Prisoner of War Museum. Alongside designing inclusive pathways and accessible amenities, our focus expanded to include a picnic shelter, which would serve as a gathering space for the local community and visitors alike. We recognized the importance of creating a space that fosters connection, allowing individuals to appreciate history while enjoying the company of others.
Preserving History and Building Community
Andersonville National Historic Site encompasses the Camp Sumter military prison, Andersonville National Cemetery, and the National Prisoner of War Museum. While exploring the museum, we immersed ourselves in the rich history surrounding the Civil War-era prison camp, which housed Union soldiers. The museum, established in 1998, honors all U.S. prisoners of war from various conflicts, shedding light on a group of soldiers who are often overlooked in historical narratives.
The significance of our collaboration with the NPS lies not only in preserving historical sites but also in building a sense of community. By creating a picnic shelter within the site, we aim to provide a space where individuals can come together, share meals, and engage in conversations inspired by the history that surrounds them. This communal aspect of the project recognizes the power of human connection and the importance of fostering a sense of belonging among visitors.
Embracing Inclusivity and Community
At HECO Engineers, we understand that accessibility extends beyond physical accommodations. We believe in designing spaces that promote inclusivity and encourage community engagement. By incorporating universal design principles into the picnic shelter, we ensured that individuals with disabilities can fully participate in communal activities. The shelter’s design will feature wide entrances, accessible seating, and inclusive amenities, fostering an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued.
Our visit to the Andersonville National Historic Site and our collaboration with the National Parks System emphasized the significance of community engagement in historical preservation. HECO Engineers is proud to contribute to a mission that not only preserves history but also nurtures a sense of community and togetherness. By designing inclusive spaces and incorporating a picnic shelter into the site, we seek to create a space where individuals can gather, share stories, and forge connections that transcend historical narratives.
Read more about the Andersonville National Historic Site by following these links:
- Park Overview: https://www.nps.gov/ande/learn/index.htm
- History of Andersonville Prison: https://www.nps.gov/ande/learn/historyculture/camp_sumter_history.htm
- Stories From History: https://www.nps.gov/ande/learn/historyculture/stories.htm
Conclusion
As we move forward, HECO Engineers remains committed to working closely with the NPS and other organizations to design inclusive spaces that celebrate our shared heritage and foster community engagement. Our partnership exemplifies our dedication to building a future where historical sites serve as catalysts for community growth, understanding, and unity. Together, we can ensure that Andersonville National Historic Site and other sites like it continue to inspire and connect generations to come.
HECO’s structural engineering team is experienced in consultation, design, and construction management for a variety of government and private clients. We combine innovate engineering and a thorough understanding of construction means and methods to provide efficient and cost-effective designs to architects, contractors, government entities, commercial, and industrial facilities. We have completed the structural design on a variety of projects including marine facilities and docks, large warehouses, national park facilities, and bridges. Click here to view more HECO Engineer projects.
Phone: (208) 642-3304
Web: https://hecoengineers.com/
HECO Corporate Office: 32 N Main St. Payette, ID 83661
HECO Nampa Office: 5700 E Franklin Rd, Suite 160 Nampa, ID 83687