Georgia Set to Establish Historic Battlefield Fund After Senate Approval
In a monumental step for preservation efforts in Georgia, a bill aimed at creating the Vince Dooley Battlefield Trust Fund has successfully passed the State Senate. The bill, known as H.B. 454, was approved with a unanimous vote of 47-0, signaling strong bipartisan support for the initiative. It now awaits the signature of Governor Brian Kemp, with a signing ceremony anticipated in the coming weeks. This fund is named after the legendary University of Georgia football coach, Vince Dooley, who was not only a celebrated sports figure but also a passionate historian dedicated to preserving the state's historic battlefields.
Rep. Houston Gaines from Athens introduced the legislation, which was passed in the House of Representatives just last month. It has garnered significant backing in the Senate, particularly from Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones and Senator Bill Cowsert, both of whom share a profound connection to UGA's athletic programs.
'While Coach Dooley is rightly remembered for his athletic accomplishments, his contributions extend beyond sports into history and education,' said David Duncan, president of the American Battlefield Trust. He emphasized that the establishment of this trust fund stands as a powerful tribute to Dooley, who devoted much of his time to exploring and advocating for the state’s historical sites.
Georgia's historic battlefields tell the stories of pivotal moments in American history, yet many remain unprotected and inaccessible. Existing research has identified 34 significant battlefields throughout the state, with numerous acres of land at risk and in need of conservation. This trust fund aims to rectify that by implementing a state matching grant program designed to enhance preservation efforts.
'Coach Vince Dooley was not just a remarkable coach; he inspired countless individuals and taught us the importance of community and heritage. By honoring his legacy through this fund, we are taking essential steps to protect our historical sites for future generations,' remarked Lt. Gov. Jones.
The Vince Dooley Battlefield Trust Fund will mirror similar successful initiatives in states like Virginia and Tennessee, which have seen significant gains in preserving their historical battlegrounds. The program is expected to attract investment from both federal and private sectors, ultimately creating a more substantial impact on preservation efforts.
Visitor traffic to Georgia’s battlefields managed by the National Park Service is on the rise, with nearly three million guests recorded in 2023. These visitors contribute over $200 million to the local economy, showcasing the dual benefits of preservation: conserving history while boosting economic growth through tourism.
Rep. Trey Rhodes, who leads the House Committee on Game, Fish, and Parks, expressed optimism about the fund’s potential to enhance heritage tourism, especially during the upcoming anniversary celebrations of significant historical events. The American Battlefield Trust aims to collaborate with the state to identify more than 200 acres of critical battlefield land that could be preserved with the help of this new initiative. This includes notable historical sites like Kettle Creek, which has recently gained recognition as a National Park Service Affiliated Site, along with Rocky Face Ridge and Kennesaw Mountain.
The support for this fund extends beyond just the American Battlefield Trust. Numerous historic preservation groups across the state have lent their voices to this endeavor, underscoring the importance of safeguarding these lands. Dr. Joe Trahan, president of the Georgia Battlefields Association, pointed out that this legislation will enable future generations to learn about the sacrifices made by those who fought for their country, ensuring that their stories are honored.
The commitment to preserving these battlefields represents more than just maintaining land; it signifies a dedication to honoring the legacy of those who fought and the rich history of the United States. The initiative is a testament to the belief that remembering and understanding history is vital for informing our future. By supporting the Vince Dooley Battlefield Trust Fund, Georgia is making a substantial investment not only in its past but also in its future, granting all visitors a chance to explore the trails of history set forth by brave men and women.
In light of these efforts, the American Battlefield Trust continues to champion the preservation of America’s battlefields, working tirelessly to educate the public on their historical significance. Since 1997, the Trust has safeguarded nearly 60,000 acres across various states, with about 2,400 of those acres located in Georgia alone. This new fund represents yet another hopeful chapter in the ongoing story of historical preservation in the state, ensuring that the lessons of history endure through education and engagement.
For more information about the initiatives and efforts surrounding the Vince Dooley Battlefield Trust Fund, interested parties can visit www.battlefields.org for resources and updates. Visual assets and additional information can also be requested via email at info@battlefields.org.
Rep. Houston Gaines from Athens introduced the legislation, which was passed in the House of Representatives just last month. It has garnered significant backing in the Senate, particularly from Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones and Senator Bill Cowsert, both of whom share a profound connection to UGA's athletic programs.
'While Coach Dooley is rightly remembered for his athletic accomplishments, his contributions extend beyond sports into history and education,' said David Duncan, president of the American Battlefield Trust. He emphasized that the establishment of this trust fund stands as a powerful tribute to Dooley, who devoted much of his time to exploring and advocating for the state’s historical sites.
Georgia's historic battlefields tell the stories of pivotal moments in American history, yet many remain unprotected and inaccessible. Existing research has identified 34 significant battlefields throughout the state, with numerous acres of land at risk and in need of conservation. This trust fund aims to rectify that by implementing a state matching grant program designed to enhance preservation efforts.
'Coach Vince Dooley was not just a remarkable coach; he inspired countless individuals and taught us the importance of community and heritage. By honoring his legacy through this fund, we are taking essential steps to protect our historical sites for future generations,' remarked Lt. Gov. Jones.
The Vince Dooley Battlefield Trust Fund will mirror similar successful initiatives in states like Virginia and Tennessee, which have seen significant gains in preserving their historical battlegrounds. The program is expected to attract investment from both federal and private sectors, ultimately creating a more substantial impact on preservation efforts.
Visitor traffic to Georgia’s battlefields managed by the National Park Service is on the rise, with nearly three million guests recorded in 2023. These visitors contribute over $200 million to the local economy, showcasing the dual benefits of preservation: conserving history while boosting economic growth through tourism.
Rep. Trey Rhodes, who leads the House Committee on Game, Fish, and Parks, expressed optimism about the fund’s potential to enhance heritage tourism, especially during the upcoming anniversary celebrations of significant historical events. The American Battlefield Trust aims to collaborate with the state to identify more than 200 acres of critical battlefield land that could be preserved with the help of this new initiative. This includes notable historical sites like Kettle Creek, which has recently gained recognition as a National Park Service Affiliated Site, along with Rocky Face Ridge and Kennesaw Mountain.
The support for this fund extends beyond just the American Battlefield Trust. Numerous historic preservation groups across the state have lent their voices to this endeavor, underscoring the importance of safeguarding these lands. Dr. Joe Trahan, president of the Georgia Battlefields Association, pointed out that this legislation will enable future generations to learn about the sacrifices made by those who fought for their country, ensuring that their stories are honored.
The commitment to preserving these battlefields represents more than just maintaining land; it signifies a dedication to honoring the legacy of those who fought and the rich history of the United States. The initiative is a testament to the belief that remembering and understanding history is vital for informing our future. By supporting the Vince Dooley Battlefield Trust Fund, Georgia is making a substantial investment not only in its past but also in its future, granting all visitors a chance to explore the trails of history set forth by brave men and women.
In light of these efforts, the American Battlefield Trust continues to champion the preservation of America’s battlefields, working tirelessly to educate the public on their historical significance. Since 1997, the Trust has safeguarded nearly 60,000 acres across various states, with about 2,400 of those acres located in Georgia alone. This new fund represents yet another hopeful chapter in the ongoing story of historical preservation in the state, ensuring that the lessons of history endure through education and engagement.
For more information about the initiatives and efforts surrounding the Vince Dooley Battlefield Trust Fund, interested parties can visit www.battlefields.org for resources and updates. Visual assets and additional information can also be requested via email at info@battlefields.org.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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