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Schock Introduces Legislation to Take Next Step in Making New Philadelphia Site a National Park
Legislation requires a feasibility study to determine the suitability and feasibility of designating the area as a unit of the National Park Service
Contact: Dave Natonski
202.225.6201
Washington,
Jun 9, 2010 -
Congressman Aaron Schock (R-IL) has introduced bipartisan legislation that will require a feasibility study of the New Philadelphia site to determine its qualifications for designation as a National Park. This study is the next step in New Philadelphia being part of the National Park Service to ensure long-term preservation and public use of the site.
“New Philadelphia is a site of national importance and one that we must take steps to preserve,” said Schock. “This study is an important next step in increasing public awareness of significance of our first multiracial rural community in New Philadelphia. Furthermore, by designating the New Philadelphia site a unit of the National Park Service, we’ll be benefiting Pike County and the surrounding area.”
New Philadelphia was the first town founded by a free African-American in 1836. Frank McWorter purchased his freedom, as well as freedom for his wife and several other family members. He settled in New Philadelphia, which would be a station along the Underground Railroad.
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