Lockkeeper's House

About the Site: The Lockkeeper's House is the oldest structure on the National Mall, built in 1837. It served as the residence and office for the lockkeeper of the canal lock connecting the Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Canal to the Washington City Canal, which was located near the intersection of 17th Street NW and Constitution Avenue NW. The house is a reminder of the city's early transportation history and the importance of the canal system in the nineteenth century.

Location: Often the Lockkeeper’s House is fully staffed by the on-shift volunteer, who is also responsible for opening or closing the site, and picking up/dropping off the key at the World War II Memorial Information Kiosk, to the south of the World War II Memorial. The World War II Memorial Information Kiosk also has the closest restrooms. Volunteers are primarily stationed inside the House, but they can engage visitors outside if there is more than one volunteer on site.

Responsibilities: Open and close the Lockkeeper’s House. Welcome and engage with visitors. Share historical and cultural information about the Lockkeeper’s House, the Washington City Canal, and the National Mall. Interpret the House’s exhibits and operate the video exhibit. Support visitor navigation, wayfinding, and trip planning. Monitor the site for maintenance needs and report them to program staff. Keep the area tidy. Distribute maps and Junior Ranger books and swear-in Junior Rangers. Help visitors with National Park Service passport stamps. Share information about the surrounding area and resources.