US Park Police Horse Stables Education Center

About the Site: The U.S. Park Police Horse Stables were originally constructed in 1976 for the U.S. Bicentennial celebration, and were intended to be a temporary structure. In partnership with the Trust for the National Mall, the National Park Service initiated a project to build a fully redesigned, state-of-the-art stables complex. The restoration was completed in 2023 and included sustainable structures, ample space for horse care and exercise, and the addition of an education center. The public can learn about the horses and the history of the National Mall’s mounted unit through hands-on exhibits, videos, and talking with volunteers.

Location: Often the Education Center is fully staffed by the on-shift volunteer, who is also responsible for opening and closing the center. The key for volunteers to open and close the Center is located in the World War II Memorial Information Kiosk, to the east of the Education Center, following Ash Road. Volunteers are primarily stationed at the Volunteer Desk in the Center, but they can rove throughout the Education Center and can even engage visitors outside if there is more than one volunteer on site.

Responsibilities: Open and close the Education Center, including starting video exhibits. Welcome and engage with visitors. Share historical and cultural information about the US Park Police Mounted Unit, their horses, and horse care. Interpret the Center’s exhibits. Facilitate exhibit activities. 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.