Washington, D.C. – This week, the House Natural Resources Committee unanimously passed Congressman Darin LaHood's (IL-18) bill, H.R. 820 – New Philadelphia National Historical Park Act. The legislation would establish the New Philadelphia National Historical Site in Pike County, Illinois as a unit of the National Park System. The legislation can now move to the full House of Representatives for a vote.
New Philadelphia, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a National Historic Landmark, was the first town, founded in 1836, platted and legally registered by an African American, Frank McWorter.
"New Philadelphia and Frank McWorter’s story is an important part of Illinois and our nation’s history,” said Rep. LaHood. “Since joining Congress, I have been proud to work with my colleagues in Congress, the Pike County community, and the New Philadelphia Association to properly preserve and recognized this historical site. I applaud the House Natural Resources Committee for unanimously passing the New Philadelphia Historical Site Act and urge the House to swiftly pass this important bill to preserve this important piece of American history."
The New Philadelphia Association appreciates Congressman LaHood’s drafting the legislation to make New Philadelphia a unit of the National Park Service. The unanimous favorable vote by the full House Committee on Natural Resources, Forests and Public Lands shows the strong support for making New Philadelphia in Pike County, Illinois a part of the National Park Service," said Phil Bradshaw, President of the New Philadelphia Association (NPA).
By bringing the site into the National Park System, this bill will allow more people to see and understand the historical and cultural significance of New Philadelphia and ensure its continued preservation for years to come.
In April, Rep. LaHood gave testimony before the House Natural Resources Committee in support of his legislation. The testimony can be view here.
Related:
LaHood Introduces Bill to Establish the New Philadelphia Site as a National Historical Park
House Natural Resources Committee Holds Hearing on Rep. LaHood's New Philadelphia Legislation
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