by William Eric McFadden
Pictures
- Eric posing with his station with the visitor center in the background; Eric is speaking with K4SWL via cell-phone
Description
One member of the Southeast Ohio Radio Adventure Team succeeded in activating Hopewell Culture National Historical Park as part of the ARRL's year-long National Parks on the Air (link). Eric McFadden, WD8RIF, activated the Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, HP15 (link) at the Mound City Group.
Eric arrived at the park about 1545 UTC to find the park swarming with elementary school students. Eric stamped his Passport 2016 and spoke with the rangers who again allowed him to set up wherever he wanted and to use the parks ARRL NPOTA banner.
As at previous activations, the station consisted of Eric's Enhanced KX3 Travel Kit, his MFJ-1910 33' fiberglass telescoping mast, and a custom clipboard.
Eric chose set up the station alongside the parking-lot circle and was ready to go on the air about 1613 UTC.
Eric began operations on 20m and his first QSO was with K6VIA at 1615 UTC. Thereafter, QSOs came steadily until Eric's 15th and last QSO with K6LJC at 1635 UTC. All QSOs were made at the 5-watt level.
As at his previous activation of Hopewell Culture NHP, the rangers made Eric feel very welcome at the park and they seemed pleased to hear Eric was planning to return to the park on Wednesday on the way to Hamvantion.
Map:
(return)