Henderson – The Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site is currently closed, and it’s not just for a routine maintenance check. Hurricane Helene has left its mark, and park officials are working diligently to assess the damage and ensure safety before welcoming visitors back.
Hurricane Helene’s Impact on the Park
The closure affects all trails, park grounds, and facilities, leaving nature lovers and history buffs in limbo. Park Superintendent Polly Angelakis shared her thoughts on the situation, emphasizing the storm’s impact on both the park and the surrounding community. “The hurricane has had an impact on all of us here at Carl Sandburg Home and in the broader community,” she said. Thankfully, she noted that park staff, volunteers, and even the goats and other livestock made it through the storm unscathed.
However, the park is not without its challenges. Numerous downed trees and washouts have rendered trails and grounds inaccessible. While the historic buildings remain intact, the Front Lake Dam has suffered significant damage. NPS teams are currently assessing the extent of this damage to determine what repairs are necessary to make the park safe for visitors.
Community Connection and Patience Requested
Angelakis expressed her understanding of how vital the Carl Sandburg Home is to the community. “We know how important the Carl Sandburg Home is to the community for recreation, exercise, and as an escape from the everyday chaos,” she said. The park serves as a sanctuary for many, and its closure is felt deeply by those who cherish it.
Despite the unfortunate circumstances, park crews are hard at work with chainsaws to clear fallen trees and restore access. However, Angelakis cautioned that dangerous conditions still exist, urging visitors to remain patient as they navigate the cleanup process. “We ask for everyone’s patience while we work to get Carl Sandburg Home safely open for everyone to enjoy,” she said.
Stay Updated on Reopening Plans
For those eager to return to the park, updates will be posted on the Carl Sandburg Home website at nps.gov/carl and across their social media platforms (@CarlSandburgHomeNHS on Facebook, X, and Instagram). While there’s no estimated time for reopening yet, park officials are committed to keeping the public informed as they work through the recovery process.
As the community rallies together in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, it’s a reminder of the resilience of both nature and those who cherish these historic sites. The Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site may be temporarily closed, but its spirit remains strong as staff and volunteers work tirelessly to restore it for future generations.