How can something be a "valuable learning tool" and "hopelessly outdated". You can't have it both ways. When they send you this form email, respond and ask them that question. Ask them why they saw historical value in the Cyclorama, but did not see the historical value in the Electric Map.

Using this logic, what next would the NPS apply its logic to... Old Faithful?

Official Correspondence
No Hard Copy to Follow
 
A-62
 
April 7, 2008 
 
Dear Sir or Madam:
 
This is in response to your email regarding the electric map at Gettysburg
National Military Park (NMP).  The National Park Service has carefully
considered the issue and feels the concept of the electric map is a
valuable learning tool for visitor orientation to the battlefield and
understanding the battle action, but the program and its electronics are
hopelessly outdated.  Films and displays in the new museum and visitor
center will provide improved orientation to the Gettysburg battlefield and
improved understanding of the battle action.
 
Gettysburg NMP is going to carefully remove the electric map from the park
visitor center building prior to its demolition and store it in the park
for possible future use.  We are willing to consider proposals for a new
home for the electric map from government agencies or non-profit
organizations interested in using it for educational programs.
 
The park's new Museum and Visitor Center opens April 14.  We welcome you to
visit and explore the 24,000 square foot Gettysburg Museum of the American
Civil War, the new 22-minute film,  New Birth of Freedom, research room,
Refreshment Saloon, and  museum bookstore.  The building also features
curatorial space, a park library, office space, and classrooms.  The
restored Cyclorama painting opens to the public on September 26 as part of
the Grand Opening celebration for the facility.
 
I hope this information addresses your concern.  Thank you for your
interest in the National Park Service.
 
Sincerely,
 
/s/
 
 
Katie Lawhon
Public Affairs Specialist
Gettysburg National Military Park
97 Taneytown Road
Gettysburg, PA 17325
phone  717- 334-1124 x452
fax       717- 334-1891