Saving Shenandoah's Famed Skyland Stables

Shenandoah National Park's famed Skyland Stable is being "saved" thanks to an effort from the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The Trust is launching a new program that trains young people in useful, hands-on skills at historic preservation projects throughout the country. Called the “Hands-On Preservation Experience,” or “HOPE Crew,” the program will make a positive difference in the lives of future preservationists and in the communities where they serve. Here's what the stables looked like before the renovation.

(Monica Rhodes, National Trust for Historic Preservation photo)

The first HOPE Crew project will rehabilitate Skyland Stables. Skyland Stables, constructed in 1939, is a contributing structure to the Skyline Drive National Historic Landmark District and is owned by the National Park Service. When it is repaired, the historic structure will continue to be used as a public stable. The stable stands near a trail head, connecting the visitor to the National Park’s 200 miles of equestrian trails.   The stables are very near Middleburg, Va not far from Washington, D.C.

At each local project, preservation craftspeople will mentor and oversee the work of HOPE Crew members, and provide instruction on a range of preservation bricks-and-mortar techniques. The skills that crew members acquire as part of the program provides them with competitive skills in the job market and create opportunities for a new generation of preservation craftspeople.

“This is a win-win collaboration, and we are looking forward to working with The Corps Network to launch HOPE Crew this year,” said Stephanie Meeks, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. “As we provide people with skills and mentorship opportunities, this innovative new program will also bolster communities and help breathe new life into historic places across the country in need of revitalization.”

About The Corps Network

The Corps Network's 100+ members operate in all states and the District of Columbia. Each year they collectively enroll over 25,838 Corpsmembers from ages 16-25. Corps organize an additional 154,486 community volunteers who work alongside Corpsmembers to generate 450,013 additional hours of service annually, at an estimated value of $9,963,287. It is the mission of The Corps Network to provide national leadership and promote the growth and quality of its member Corps as they provide education, workforce development, and an ethic of stewardship to diverse youth who address important community and conservation needs.

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