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The original documents are located in Box 48, folder "7/4/76 HR5621 Establish Valley
Forge National Park Pennsylvania" of the White House Records Office: Legislation Case
Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Gerald R. Ford donated to the United
States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.
Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public
domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to
remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid
copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Exact duplicates within this folder were not digitized.
84/4/16
APPROVED JUL 4- Ceremony 1976
THE WHITE HOUSE
ACTION
WASHINGTON
Last Day: July 7
June 29, 1976
THE PRESIDENT
JIM CANNON
so archives
SUBJECT:
H.R. 5621 - Establish Valley
Forge National Historical Park,
Pennsylvania
7/6/76
Attached for your consideration is H.R. 5621, sponsored by
Representative Schulze and sixteen others.
The enrolled bill authorizes the establishment of the Valley
Forge National Historical Park on approximately 2,500
acres, provides necessary authorities for land acquisition
and operation and maintenance of the park, and authorizes
appropriations to carry out these activities.
A detailed discussion of the provisions of the enrolled
bill is provided in OMB's enrolled bill report at Tab A.
OMB, Max Friedersdorf, Counsel's Office (Lazarus) and I
recommend approval of the enrolled bill.
RECOMMENDATION
That you sign H.R. 5621 at Tab B.
B. FORD FIBRARY
Digitized from Box 48 of the White House Records Office Legislation Case Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
A
OF THE
PRESIDENT
OFFICE
OF THE
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
UNITED
OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET
SECUTIVE
STATES
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20503
JUN 28 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
Subject: Enrolled Bill H.R. 5621 - Establish Valley
Forge National Historical Park,
Pennsylvania
Sponsors - Rep. Schulze (R) Pennsylvania
and 16 others
Last Day for Action
July 7, 1976 - Wednesday
Purpose
Authorizes the establishment of the Valley Forge
National Historical Park on approximately 2,500
acres of land, provides necessary authorities for
land acquisition and operation and maintenance of
the park, and authorizes appropriations to carry
out these activities.
Agency Recommendations
Office of Management and Budget
Approval
Department of the Interior
Approval
Discussion
Since 1893, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has
maintained, improved, and operated a State park
commemorating the decisive winter encampment of
Washington's Continental Army during the winter
of 1777-1778.
In recent years, extensive development of the area
around the Valley Forge Park including the
2
Pennsylvania Turnpike and ever growing suburban
residential construction has threatened the
integrity of the park. According to the Interior
Committee reports, development pressure has
increased to the point where the State is not
able to cope with them adequately, particularly
in the need for protective land acquisition.
More specifically, the House Interior Committee's
report stated:
"The establishment of Valley Forge
as a national historical park thus has
the dual purpose of securing a larger
land base for the park and of placing
the area under the continuing pro-
tection and management of the National
Park Service. The Congress, in this
instance, will be building on the
accomplishments of the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania to date, and is acting to
guarantee that Valley Forge will
continue to inspire Americans for long
after the Bicentennial year.
The major provisions of H.R. 5621 would:
-- authorize the Secretary of the Interior to
establish the Valley Forge National
Historical Park after determining that
an adequate land area exists for this
purpose and subject to other conditions;
-- authorizes acquisition of the necessary
land by purchase, exchange or otherwise
except that the State park area could be
acquired only by donation after
October 1, 1976;
-- prohibit establishment of National
Historical Park until the Secretary of the
Interior has received adequate assurance
concerning the availability and obligation
of the $10 million in State funds which
have been appropriated for new park
improvements;
3
-- authorize appropriations in the amount of
$8,622,000 for land acquisition and
$500,000 for additional improvements; and
-- authorize the Secretary of the Interior,
after consulting with the Governor of the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, to develop
and transmit to the Committees on Interior
and Insular Affairs of the United States
Congress a final master plan for the
development of the park consistent with the
objectives of this Act, indicating:
(1) the facilities needed to accommodate the
health, safety, and interpretive needs
of the visiting public;
(2) the location and estimated cost of all
facilities; and
(3) the projected need for any additional
facilities within the park.
There is attached for your consideration a proposed
signing statement which Interior has informally sub-
mitted.
James Director for
Legislative Referencé
Enclosure
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
BOB LINDER:
Please see JACK MARSH comment
Judy 6/30
ILIN : : 1975
THE WHITE HOUSE
ACTION MEMORANDUM
WASHINGTON
LOG NO.:
Date:
June 29
Time:
900am
FOR ACTION:
CC
:
George Humphreys
J
Max Friedersdorf
Jim Cavanaugh
Ken Lazarus
Ed Schmults RAR
FROM THE STAFF SECRETARY
DUE: Date:
June 29
Time:
500pm
SUBJECT:
Establish Valley Forge National
Park
ACTION REQUESTED:
For Necessary Action
For Your Recommendations
Prepare Agenda and Brief
Draft Reply
X
For Your Comments
Draft Remarks
REMARKS:
please return to judy johnston
This Bill is to be. signed
to Accompany iN preparation take by
4 July At VAlley Forge. Statement
stops White for Bill to GO with etc. Presidention
House writens. Please
PLEASE THIS TO MATERIAL SUBMITTED.
ATTACH COPY as well AS pens,
If you have any questions or if you anticipate a
gm
delay in submitting the required material, please
James M. Cannon
Bor
THE WHITE HOUSE
ACTION MEMORANDUM
WASHINGTON
LOG NO.:
Date:
June 29
Time:
900am
FOR ACTION:
on cc (for information):
George Humphreys
Jack Marsh
Max Friedersdorf as
Jim Cavanaugh
Ken Lazarus oh
Ed Schmults
FROM THE STAFF SECRETARY
DUE: Date:
June 29
Time: 500pm
SUBJECT:
H.R. 5621 - Establish Valley Forge National
Historical Park
ACTION REQUESTED:
For Necessary Action
For Your Recommendations
Prepare Agenda and Brief
Draft Reply
X
For Your Comments
Draft Remarks
REMARKS:
please return to judy johnston
see Jace main chote
PLEASE ATTACH THIS COPY TO MATERIAL SUBMITTED.
If you have any questions or if you anticipate a
delay in submitting the required material, please
K.R. COLE, JR.
telephone the Staff Secretary immediately.
For the President
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
June 30, 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR:
JIM CAVANAUGH
FROM:
MAX L. FRIEDERSDORF w 6.
SUBJECT:
HR 5621 - Establish Valley Forge National
Historical Park
The Office of Legislative Affairs concurs with the agencies
that the
subject bill be signed.
Attachments
THE WHITE HOUSE
ACTION MEMORANDUM
WASHINGTON
LOG NO.:
Date:
June 29
Time:
900am
FOR ACTION:
CC (for information):
George Humphreys
Jack Marsh
Max Friedersdorf
Jim Cavanaugh
Ken Lazarus
Ed Schmults
FROM THE STAFF SECRETARY
DUE: Date: June 29
Time:
500pm
SUBJECT:
H.R. 5621 - Establish Valley Forge National
Historical Park
ACTION REQUESTED:
For Necessary Action
For Your Recommendations
Prepare Agenda and Brief
Draft Reply
X
For Your Comments
Draft Remarks
REMARKS:
please return to judy johnston
No objection -- Ken Lazarus 6/29/76
4
PLEASE ATTACH THIS COPY TO MATERIAL SUBMITTED.
If you have any questions or if you anticipate a
delay in submitting the required material, please
James M. Cannon
telephone the Staff Scoretary immediately
For the President
y.5
THE WHITE HOUSE
ACTION MEMORANDUM
WASHINGTON
LOG NO.:
Date:
June 29
Time:
900am
FOR ACTION:
CC (for information)
George Humphrey
Jack Marsh
Max Friedersdorf
Jim Cavanaugh
Ken Lazarus
Ed Schmults
FROM THE STAFF SECRETARY
DUE: Date: June 29
Time: 500pm
SUBJECT:
H.R. 5621 - Establish Valley Forge National
Historical Park
ACTION REQUESTED:
For Necessary Action
For Your Recommendations
Prepare Agenda and Brief
Draft Reply
X
For Your Comments
Draft Remarks
REMARKS:
please return to judy johnston
4
"Guit
PLEASE ATTACH THIS COPY TO MATERIAL SUBMITTED.
If you have any questions cr if you anticipate a
delay in submitting the required material, please
James M. Cannon
telephone the Staff Secretary unmediately
For the President
STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT
It is with great pleasure that I am today signing
legislation to include Valley Forge in the National
Park System.
It was not only the fate of a fledging nation that
hung in the balance as General Washington's army
encamped at Valley Forge in 1777. Valley Forge also
symbolizes an idea which was also at stake - the idea
that government should truly represent all of its
citizens and protect them in the exercise of their
civil liberties.
It is difficult on a warm day as today to compre-
hend the courage that our army needed to survive the
hardships of that winter. Nothing is as demoralizing
as the combination of extreme cold and hunger. Had
General Washington's soldiers and support not been
equal to the privations they had to bear, the American
Revolution would likely have failed, and the American
idea of freedom would have been stillborn.
Valley Forge became a part of the Pennsylvania
park system in 1893. The site as it exists today is a
direct result of the Commonwealth's foresighted
efforts to preserve this important part of our Nation's
heritage. Most recently the Commonwealth has extended
its efforts on behalf of Valley Forge with a con-
tribution of $10 million for a development program.
On behalf of all Americans, I want to express our
gratitude for Pennsylvania's foresight and generosity
in preserving Valley Forge.
The paths of history are littered with visions that
failed because their proponents were not people of
action and endurance. However, our forebearers were
2
people of action and endurance, and their vision has
prevailed. The winter at Valley Forge displayed the
conviction that the Declaration of Independence,
whose anniversary we celebrate today, was worth over-
coming tremendous hardships. Valley Forge represents
one of the bravest moments in our Nation's history. It
is also a powerful symbol of American vision and
fortitude. I take great pleasure on this, the
Nation's two-hundredth birthday, in dedicating Valley
Forge as a National Historic Park.
OF THE INTERIOR
United States Department of the Interior
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
March
1849
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20240
3.
JUN 1 7 1976
Dear Mr. Lynn:
This responds to your request for our views on the enrolled bill
H.R. 5621, "To authorize the Secretary of the Interior to establish
the Valley Forge National Historical Park in the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania, and for other purposes."
We recommend that the President approve the enrolled bill.
H.R. 5621 would authorize the Secretary of the Interior to establish
the Valley Forge National Historical Park in the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania of approximately 2,500 acres consisting of the Valley
Forge State Park together with such additional lands and interests
therein as the Secretary deems necessary for the proper interpreta-
tion, protection, and administration of the national historical
park. Lands may be acquired by donation, purchase, or exchange,
except that any property owned by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
or any political subdivision thereof may be acquired only by donation.
The bill would authorize the appropriation of such sums as are
necessary to carry out its provisions, but not more than $8,622,000
for the acquisition of lands and interests in lands.
Valley Forge was the site of the encampment of General George
Washington's Continental Army during the bitter winter of 1777-
1778. Following the battles of Brandywine and Germantown in the
fall of 1777 Lord Howe billeted his victorious British army comfort-
ably in the Patriot Capital of Philadelphia, while Washington and
his army of 11,000 in December went into camp at Valley Forge.
Located about 20 miles west of Philadelphia, the site was defensible
and yet permitted the Continentals to cover the western approaches
to the city.
No name evokes the spirit of patriotism and independence that gave
birth to the United States more than that of Valley Forge. Here
in the utmost of want and suffering a nucleus of the army survived,
became disciplined and proficient, and emerged as a respectable
fighting force. The Valley Forge story has been a source of inspira-
tion for Americans for 200 years.
REVOLUTION
AMERICAN
BICENTENNIAL
7776-1976
In our Departmental reports to the House and Senate Committees on
two similar bills, we indicated that the Administration had reserva-
tions about the enactment of a Valley Forge bill which provided
for the acquisition of the 869 acre Chesterbrook property adjacent
to the present State park at a cost of approximately $22,350,000.
H.R. 5621 does not provide for the acquisition of the Chesterbrook
property.
Satame Assistant Sincerely yours, Jul
Secretary
of
the
Interior
Honorable James T. Lynn
Director, Office of
Management and Budget
Washington, D.C. 20503
2
EXPORT STATE UNITED
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET
have
STATE
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20503
6-28-26gm.
JUN 28 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
Subject: Enrolled Bill H.R. 5621 - Establish Valley
Forge National Historical Park,
Pennsylvania
Sponsors - Rep. Schulze (R) Pennsylvania
and 16 others
Last Day for Action
July 7, 1976 - Wednesday
Purpose
Authorizes the establishment of the Valley Forge
National Historical Park on approximately 2,500
acres of land, provides necessary authorities for
land acquisition and operation and maintenance of
the park, and authorizes appropriations to carry
out these activities.
Agency Recommendations
Office of Management and Budget
Approval
Department of the Interior
Approval
Discussion
Since 1893, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has
maintained, improved, and operated a State park
commemorating the decisive winter encampment of
Washington's Continental Army during the winter
of 1777-1778.
In recent years, extensive development of the area
around the Valley Forge Park including the
Attached document was not scanned because it is duplicated elsewhere in the document
94TH CONGRESS
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
REPORT
2d Session
No. 94-1142
AUTHORIZING THE SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR TO ESTABLISH
THE VALLEY FORGE NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK IN THE COM-
MONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
MAY 14, 1976.-Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the state
of the Union and ordered to be printed
Mr. HALEY, from the Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs,
submitted the following
REPORT
[To accompany H.R. 5621]
The Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs, to whom was re-
ferred the bill (H.R. 5621) to authorize the Secretary of the Interior
to establish the Valley Forge National Historical Park in the Com-
monwealth of Pennsylvania, and for other purposes, having con-
sidered the same, report favorably thereon with amendments and
recommended that the bill as amended do pass.
The amendments are as follows:
Page 2, line 1, after the word "Park" insert "(hereinafter referred
to as the 'park'),
Page 2, lines 3 through 15, strike out all of Section 2 and insert in
lieu thereof the following:
SEC. 2(a) The park shall comprise the area generally de-
picted on the map entitled "Valley Forge National Historical
Park", dated February, 1976, and numbered VF-91,000,
which shall be on file and available for inspection in the
offices of the National Park Service, Department of the In-
terior, Washington, District of Columbia, and in the offices
of the superintendent of the park. After advising the Com-
mittees on Interior and Insular Affairs of the United States
Congress, in writing, the Secretary may make minor revisions
of the boundaries of the park when necessary by publication
of a revised map or other boundary description in the Federal
Register.
(b) Within the boundaries of the park, the Secretary may
acquire lands and interests therein by donation, purchase
with donated or appropriated funds, exchange, or transfer.
Any property owned by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
or any political subdivision thereof may be acquired only by
donation. The effective date of such donation shall not be
prior to October 1, 1976.
2
3
(c) Except for property deemed by the Secretary to be es-
park pursuant to this Act, the Secretary shall, after consult-
sential for visitor facilities, or for access to or administration
ing with the Governor of the Commonwealth of Penn-
of the park, any owner or owners of improved property on the
sylvania, develop and transmit to the Committees on Interior
date of its acquisition by the Secretary may, as a condition
and Insular Affairs of the United States Congress a final
of such acquisition, retain for themselves and their successors
master plan for the development of the park consistent with
or assigns a right of use and occupancy of the improved prop-
the objectives of this act, indicating:
erty for noncommercial residential purposes for a definite
(1). the facilities needed to accommodate the health,
term not to exceed twenty-five years, or in lieu thereof, for a
safety, and interpretive needs of the visiting public;
term ending at the death of the owner, or the death of his or
(2) the location and estimated cost of all facilities;
her spouse, whichever is the later. The owner shall elect the
and
term to be reserved. Unless the property is wholly or partially
(3) the projected need for any additional facilities
donated, the Secretary shall pay to the owner the fair market
within the park.
value of the property on the date of such acquisition, less the
H.R. 5621
fair market value on such date of the right retained by the
PURPOSE
owner.
(d) The Secretary may terminate a right of use and oc-
H.R. 5621,1 as reported by the Committee on Interior and Insular
cupancy retained pursuant to this section upon his deter-
Affairs would authorize the establishment of the Valley Forge Na-
mination that such use and occupancy is being exercised in a
tional Historical Park in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The
manner not consistent with the purposes of this Act, and upon
bill would provide for the donation of the existing Valley Forge
tender to the holder of the right of an amount equal to the
State Park, authorize appropriations for additional land acquisition,
fair market value of that portion of the right which remains
and direct the Secretary of the Interior to prepare a master plan for
unexpired on the date of termination.
the park and submit his recommendations to the Congress.
(e) The term "improved property," as used in this section
shall mean a detached, noncommercial residential dwelling,
BACKGROUND AND NEED FOR LEGISLATION
the construction of which was begun before January 1, 1975
(hereafter referred to as "dwelling"), together with so much
The place occupied by Valley Forge in American history is so
of the land on which the dwelling is situated, the said land
familiar as hardly to need retelling. The ragged, battle-weary army
being in the same ownership as the dwelling, as the Secretary
that went into encampment in the winter of 1777-78 seemed a forlorn
shall designate to be reasonably necessary for the enjoyment
hope for a revolutionary cause that was being pursued against nearly
of the dwelling for the sole purpose of noncommercial resi-
impossible odds. Yet General George Washington and his army not
dential use, together with any structures accessory to the
only survived, but emerged from Valley Forge as a disciplined mil-
dwelling which are situated on the land SO designated.
itary force that could and did carry on the fight for independence.
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania first established a State Park
Page 2, strike out all of lines 19 through 21 and insert in lieu
thereof:
in 1893 including portions of the wintering area, and has added to
the protected area several times since then. The park has preserved
park by publication of a notice to that effect in the Federal
and interpreted structures and lands associated with the encampment.
Register: Provided, That the park shall not be established
A number of recreational uses are also provided for in the park,
until the Secretary receives commitments which he deems to
which is administered by a State commission.
be sufficient from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania that
Although Valley Forge is owned and operated at the State level,
the appropriations made by Acts 320 and 352 of 1974, and
the visitation to the area is certainly national in character. Many
Act 12A of 1975, of the Legislature of the Commonwealth
visitors assume that Valley Forge is already a unit of the National
of Pennsylvania, will continue to be available and obligated
Park System. As both a site of primary significance during the Revo-
for development purposes within the park. The Secretary
lutionary War and as a lasting American symbol, Valley Forge is
shall administer.
one of the major historical resources of our Nation.
Page 3, lines through 5, strike out all of Section 4 and insert in
In spite of several additions to the park through the years, the
lieu thereof:
character of Valley Forge is undergoing continuing change. The
Pennsylvania Turnpike now borders the park. Housing and other
SEC. 4(a) There are hereby authorized to be appropriated
such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of
H.R. 5621 was introduced by Representative Richard Schulze and cosponsored by
this Act, but not more than $8,622,000 for the acquisition of
Representatives Biester, Coughlin, Dent, Edgar, Eshleman, Green, Goodling, Heins, Johnson
of Pennsylvania, McDade, Moorhead of Pennsylvania, Murtha, Rooney, Schneebeli, Vigorito,
lands and interests in lands.
and Yatron. Also before the committee were the companion measures H.R. 2257 by Schulze,
(b) For the development of essential public facilities there
and H.R. 7989 by Schulze, Burgener, Carr, Emery, Fenwick, Gradison, Harris, Hastings,
Hyde, Kelly, Mazzoli, Meeds, Pettis, Rodino, Sarbanes, Seiberling, Solarz, Stark, Treen,
are authorized to be appropriated not more than $500,000.
and Young of Florida.
Within three years from the date of establishment of the
H.R. 1142
H.R. 1142
4
5
developments have increased rapidly around Valley Forge as the
of the National Historical Park until satisfactory commitments are
pressure for useable land in the greater Philadelphia urban area has
received by the Secretary that the appropriations amounting to ap-
grown. The park is rapidly becoming an island of undeveloped land
proximately $10 million recently made by the Commonwealth of Penn-
in a densely populated region. There is even an industrial operation
sylvania for the park will be obligated. The Secretary is to develop a
located within an enclave in the center of the existing park.
master plan which will detail any development needs beyond those now
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has performed admirably in
existing or planned.
attempting to maintain the integrity of the area. In addition to the
The Committee also noted that the restoration and strengthening of
previously mentioned additions to the park, some $10 million has re-
the historic integrity of the Valley Forge site should be the first prior-
cently been appropriated to improve the interpretive and visitor
ity for any Federal management of the area. The Committee expects
service facilities in the area. These improvement projects are currently
the Secretary to take early and positive steps, once the National Park
under way, as the park is readied to meet the great numbers of visitors
Service assumes operational responsibilities, to manage the park with
expected in the area during the Bicentennial year.
increased emphasis on the restoration and maintenance of the historic
But the pressures for development on the surrounding lands have
scene. Nonconforming recreational uses are to be phased down or re-
made it increasingly clear that the State cannot bear the burden alone.
located. Nonhistoric technological intrusions such as grass mowing are
Some ten separate parcels of land within or immediately adjacent
to be eliminated where possible and appropriate, and the rerouting or
to the existing park have been identified as in need of protection. The
elimination of inappropriate and unsafe roadways is to be undertaken,
opportunities to bring these various lands within the protection of
as is possible.
the park before additional alterations take place are rapidly
SECTION-BY-SECTION ANALYSIS
diminishing.
The establishment of Valley Forge as a national historical park thus
Section 1 states that the purpose of the bill is to preserve and com-
has the dual purpose of securing a larger land base for the park and
memorate the historic area of Valley Forge, and authorizes the Secre-
of placing the area under the continuing protection and management
tary of the Interior to establish the Valley Forge National Historical
of the National Park Service. The Congress, in this instance, will be
Park.
building on the accomplishments of the Commonwealth of Pennsyl-
Section 2 defines the park boundaries by reference to a dated and
vania to date, and is acting to guarantee that Valley Forge will con-
numbered map which is to be kept on file in both the Washington and
tinue to inspire Americans for long after the Bicentennial year.
local offices of the National Park Service. The Secretary is authorized
to make minor boundary changes, which would not involve a substan-
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY
tial change in the authorized area of the park, after advising the ap-
propriaté congressional committees and publishing a revised boundary
The Subcommittee on National Parks and Recreation conducted
description in the Federal Register.
hearings on H.R. 5621 and companion measures on September 29, 1975.
The Secretary is to have full authority to acquire lands within the
There was general agreement on the significance of Valley Forge,
boundaries of the park with the following exceptions:
and on the need to protect this historic resource for future generations.
(1) Property owned by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or
Considerable testimony was also received with regard to an adjacent
any local governmental unit may only be acquired to donation.
tract of undeveloped land known as Chesterbrook. A planned develop-
In addition, the effective date of any such donation is not to be
ment project for this property was opposed by a number of witnesses,
prior to October 1, 1976. This will ensure that the National Park
with the view expressed that Chesterbrook should more appropriately
Service will not be expected to take any operating role in the park
become a valuable addition to the historical park.
during the current peak use season. In addition, this will preclude
The Subcommittee then conducted a field inspection of the Valley
any hasty shifting of personnel and funds to the area before fiscal
Forge area, viewing all of the proposed additional lands to be ac-
year 1977.
quired. In markup. by the Subcommittee, the bill was amended to
(2) Owners of improved property may retain a right of use
conditionally include the Chesterbrook tract, with the understanding
and occupancy for residential purposes for up to twenty-five years
that negotiations were underway to allow purchase of the tract for
or a life term. This reservation would not apply to property
much less than the cost estimated by the Department of the Interior.
deemed essential for visitor facilities, access, or administration of
Later, when the measure was considered by the Full Committee, it was
the park. The fair market value of any such retained right would
apparent that a negotiated purchase of Chesterbrook at the lower price
be subtracted from the purchase price paid by the Secretary. A
was not likely. Accordingly, the Committee voted to exclude this
retained right may be terminated upon a finding by the Secretary
additional parcel of land from the park.
that the occupancy is not being exercised in conformance with the
Additional amendments were also recommended by the Subcommit-
protection and interpretation of the park, and upon payment of
tee, making technical changes in the bill, as well as permitting retained
the remaining value of the right.
rights of use and occupancy for residential property owners.
This section also restricts the definition of "improved prop-
To ensure the prompt completion of the current development pro-
erty" to those noncommercial dwellings upon which construction
gram, an amendment was also adopted which precludes establishment
was begun before January 1, 1975. The lands and minor struc-
H.R. 1142
H.R. 1142
6
7
tures associated with such a residence are also included within the
OVERSIGHT STATEMENT
definition.
Section 3 directs the Secretary to establish the park when a sufficient
Hearings in this case dealt with a new area proposał, and did not
amount of lands and interests have been acquired to constitute an ad-
lend themselves to conducting oversight investigations. No recom-
ministrable unit. Such establishment is not to occur, however, until
mendations were submitted to the Committee pursuant to rule X,
the Secretary has received firm commitments from the Commonwealth
clause 2(b) (2).
of Pennsylvania that the appropriations made by the legislature for
COMMITTEE AMENDMENTS
various improvements within the park will continue to be obligated
for this program. The specific recent Acts of the Commonwealth which
The amendments as discussed elsewhere in this report were all
próvide this funding are referenced.
adopted by the Committee.
The Secretary is also specifically directed to administer the prop-
erties acquired for the park in accordance with the Organic Acts for
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS
the National Park System and for the administration of historic
properties.
On May 5, 1976, after adopting the amendments as discussed, the
Section 4 includes a limitation of $8,622,000 on the amount author-
Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs, meeting in open session,
reported H.R. 5621, as amended, by unanimous voice vote, and recom-
ized to be appropriated for land acquisition in the park. Such ap-
mends that the bill as reported be approved.
propriations would be used to acquire those parcels of private lands
Service. included within the boundary recommended by the National Park
DEPARTMENTAL REPORT
A limitation of $500,000 is placed on the amount which may be
The report of the Department of the Interier, dated September 27,
appropriated for the development of essential public facilities. It is
1975, is here printed in full:
expected that those facilities being developed through the appropria-
tions made by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will be sufficient
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
to meet most of the construction requirements in the immediate future.
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY,
The Secretary is also to develop a full master plan within the next
Washington, D,C., September 27, 1975.
three years which will identify future additional needs. The plan is
Hon. JAMES A, HALEY,
to be developed in consultation with the Commonwealth, and is to be
Chairman, Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs, House of
sent to the appropriate Committees of the Congress, thus giving them
Representatives, Washington, D.C.
the information necessary to consider any additional authorizations.
Dear Mr. CHAIRMAN: Your Committee has requested the views of
this Department on H.R. 2257, a bill "To provide for the establish-
COST
ment of the Valley Forge National Historical Park in the Common-
H.R. 5621 authorizes the appropriation of up to $8,622,000 for the
wealth of Pennsylvania and for other purposes."
acquisition of the additions to the existing park property. These
H.R. 2257 would authorize the Secretary of the Interior to establish
appropriations will come from the Land and Water Conservation
the Valley Forge National Historical Park in the Commonwealth of
Fund.
Pennsylvania not to exceed 3,500 acres consisting of the Valley Forge
An additional $500,000 is authorized to be appropriated for devel-
State Park together with such additional lands and interests therein
opment purposes. The immediate development needs of the area should
as the Secretary deems necessary for the proper interpretation, pro-
be met by the projects now under construction by the Commonwealth.
tection, and administration of the national historical park. Lands may
be acquired by donation, purchase, or exchange, except that any prop-
BUDGET ACT COMPLIANCE
erty owned by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or any political
subdivision thereof may be acquired only by donation. The bill would
Sums authorized to be appropriated here will only be expended
authorize the appropriation of such sums as are necessary to carry out
over a period of several years. No significant budget impact is expected
its provisions.
to occur.
Valley Forge was the site of the encampment of General George
INFLATIONARY IMPACT
Washington's Continental Army during the bitter winter of 1777-
The impact of H.R. 5621 is expected to be slight. Only $500,000 is
1778. Following the battles of Brandywine and Germantown in the
authorized for development at this time. The $8,622,000 authorized
fall of 1777 Lord Howe billeted his victorious British army com-
for land acquisition will be expended over several years in an area
fortably in the Patriot Capital of Philadelphia, while Washington
with high population, and individual land purchases are not expected
and his army of 11,000 in December went into camp at Valley Forge.
to impact the local economy to any significant degree.
Located about 20 miles west of Philadelphia, the site was defensible
and yet permitted the Continentals to cover the western approaches
H.R. 1142
to the city.
H.R. 1142
8
9
No name evokes the spirit of patriotism and independence that
We believe that the Federal Government does not have sole respon-
gave birth to the United States more than that of Valley Forge.
sibility for preserving, developing and operating nationally signifi-
Here in the utmost of want and suffering a nucleus of the army sur-
cant historic sites. This responsibility is shared with local govern-
vived, became disciplined and proficient, and emerged as a respect-
ments, individual citizens and private institutions. Accordingly, we
able fighting force. The Valley Forge story has been a source of
have reservations about the enactment of H.R. 2257. However, we
inspiration for Americans for 200 years.
would look forward to the opportunity to work with the Committee
A portion of the campsite became a Pennsylvania State Park in 1893.
in an effort to assuage these reservations.
Now containing approximately 2,300 acres, the park is located in
The Office of Management and Budget has advised that there is
Montgomery and Chester Counties near Fort Kennedy and Phoenix-
no objection to the presentation of this report from the standpoint of
ville. It is administered by the Valley Forge State Park Commission.
the Administration's program.
The park is traversed near its north boundary by the Schuylkill River
Sincerely yours,
and near its west boundary by Valley Creek. The Pennsylvania Turn-
NATHANIEL P. REED,
pike, which bisects the campsite, bounds the park on the south; its
Assistant Secretary of the Interior.
main entrance is on Pennsylvania Route 393 on the east. The park is a
H.R. 1142
mixture of rolling meadow and wood lots dominated by a tree-covered
hill called Mount Joy.
Valley Forge became a national landmark in 1962. Pursuant to the
authority of the 1966 Historic Preservation Act, grants totalling $133,-
962 were made in fiscal year 1973 to the State of Pennsylvania for
preservation work at Valley Forge. No subsequent requests for grants
have been received. We understand also that no grants for the park
have been made from the Land and Water Conservation Fund.
The current State budget for the park is $527,000 annually with
35 full-time employees. The National Park Service estimates that it
would need about $2 million annually to operate and maintain the
park at National Park System standards because of higher pay scales,
fewer volunteers, and a different mix of skills if jurisdiction is
transferred.
In addition, the State has approved a $10 million development pro-
gram which includes building a new museum, rehabilitating several
houses and closing two roads. The National Park Service would prob-
ably adopt this plan and add sewer connections and historic and arche-
ological studies. The Park Service estimates that Federal develop-
ment costs for the park, should it become a unit of the System, could
approach $16 million, which is in addition to the $10 million State
developments now underway.
H.R. 2257 would place the entire responsibility for day-to-day man-
agement and interpretation of the existing State park, together with
any additional land acquisition and development, under the Federal
Government even though Pennsylvania has kept this area preserved
as a park for 80 years.
Acquisition of the 869.08 acre Chesterbrook property nearby the
State park will cost approximately $22,350,000, according to our cur-
rent estimates; acquisition and removal of the 46-acre Keene industrial
plant within the park will cost an additional, $3,878,450. The Chester-
brook acquisition alone would amount to almost one-third of the entire
appropriation requested for land acquisition in the National Park
System in fiscal year 1976 of $77,440,000. As of fiscal year 1975, the
total land acquisition for authorized but not yet purchased units of
the National Park System is $572,600,000. Within this latter sum are
included the acquisition of Big Cypress and Big Thicket National Pre-
serves and Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area which the
Congress has indicated must be acquired within six years.
H.R. 1142
Calendar No. 775
94TH CONGRESS
SENATE
REPORT
2d Session
No. 94-817
VALLEY FORGE NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK
MAY 12, 1976:-Ordered to be printed
Mr. JOHNSTON, from the Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs,
submitted the following
REPORT
together with
MINORITY VIEWS
[To accompany S. 1776]
The Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs, to which was re-
ferred the bill (S. 1776) to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to
establish the Valley Forge National Historical Park in the Common-
wealth of Pennsylvania, and for other purposes, having considered
the same, reports favorably thereon with an amendment to the title
and an amendment to the text and recommends that the bill as
amended do pass.
AMENDMENTS
The Committee adopted an amendment in the nature of a substi-
tute. It reads as follows:
That in order to preserve and commemorate for the people
of the United States the area associated with the heroic
suffering, hardship, and determination and resolve of General
George Washington's Continental Army during the winter of
1777-1778 at Valley Forge, the Valley Forge National His-
torical Park (herinafter referred to as the "park") in the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, is hereby established.
SEC. 2. Within the boundaries of the park, the Secretary
of the Interior (hereinafter referred to as the "Secretary") is
authorized to acquire lands or interests in lands by donation,
purchase with donated or appropriated funds, or exchange,
except that any property owned by the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania or any political subdivision thereof may be
acquired by donation only.
57-010
2
3
SEC. 3. The boundaries of the park shall be those generally
depicted on the map numbered VF-91,000 which shall be on
The park is a mixture of rolling meadow and wood lots dominated by
file and available for public inspection in the offices of the
a tree-covered hill called Mount Joy.
Director, National Park Service, Department of the Interior.
Valley Forge became a national landmark in 1962. Pursuant to the
Following reasonable notice in writing of his intention to do
authority of the 1966 Historic Preservation Act, grants totalling
so to the Committees on Interior and Insular Affairs of the
for preservation work at Valley Forge.
$133,962 were made in fiscal year 1973 to the State of Pennsylvania
Senate and House, the Secretary, by publication of a revised
map or other boundary description in the Federal Register,
S. 1776 would place the responsibility for day-to-day management
may make minor boundary adjustments in the boundary of
and interpretation of the existing State park, together with any addi-
the park: Provided that the total acreage in the park may not
tional land acquisition and development, under the Federal Govern-
exceed 2,800 acres.
ment. As amended, S. 1776, would propose the acquisition of ap-
SEC. 4. The Secretary shall administer the park in accord-
follows: proximately 250 acres at a cost of $8,622,000. These parcels are as
ance with the Act of August 25, 1916 (39 Stat. 535) as
amended, and the Act of August 21, 1935 (49 Stat. 666), as
1. The open land bordering Route 363 at the northeast corner of the
amended.
present State park.-Estimated Cost: $15,710.
SEC. 5. There are hereby authorized to be appropriated
Route 363 is the main entrance road, and commercial or industrial
not to exceed $8,622,000 for the acquisition of lands or
development on this tract would be extremely intrusive.
interests in lands.
2. The tracts lying between Route 23 and 363 at the northeast corner
The Committee also amended the title so as to read:
of the State park.-Estimated Cost: $1,056,830.
A bill to establish the Valley Forge National Historical
These are small tracts with single family residences and one or two
Park in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and for other
small gas stations. Present uses are compatible. However, Route 23
purposes.
is now and will remain part of the park circulation system. Commercial
PURPOSE
development on these parcels would not only be an intrusion on the
The purpose of S. 1776 is to authorize the Secretary of the Interior
park but would create traffic hazards. Purchase of development rights
to accept the donation of the 2,250 acre State Park, to acquire adjoin-
or purchase in fee subject to retention of occupancy rights for life or
a term of years is recommended.
ing parcels and inholdings (total acreage of the park not to exceed
2,800) and establish and administer the Valley Forge National
Mount Misery.-Estimated Cost: $66,000.
3. and 4. Two tracts of vacant, open land on the east facing slope of
Historical Park.
BACKGROUND AND NEED
These are visible from several segments of the park tour road. They
should be acquired to prevent possible future construction which
Valley Forge was the site of the encampment of General George
would add still another visual intrusion upon the setting of the park.
Washington's Continental Army during the bitter winter of 1777-1778.
5. The Keene Property.-Estimated Cost: $3,878,450.
Following the battles of Brandywine and Germantown in the fall of
This industrial property lies well within the boundaries of the State
1777 Lord Howe billeted his victorious British army comfortably in
the Patriot Capital of Philadelphia, while Washington and his army
Memorial Chapel. As private property located in a most sensitive
park in a valley between the Reception Center and the Washington
of 11,000 in December went into camp at Valley Forge. Located
area, any adverse change in its use would have a very great impact on
about 20 miles west of Philadelphia, the site was defensible and yet
the park. The primary concern, therefore, is to assure that no adverse
permitted the Continentals to cover the western approaches to the
change in its use will occur. The present operation, the manufacture
city.
of insulating covers for pipes, is inconspicuous at worst, and invisible
No name evokes the spirit of patriotism and independence that gave
at best, from the key areas overlooking it because it is screened by
birth to the United States more than that of Valley Forge. Here in the
trees. Were the level of development to change, the parcel could
utmost of want and suffering a nucleus of the army survived, became
become a very adverse intrusion. In view of the impact on the park
disciplined and proficient, and emerged as a respectable fighting force.
that any change in use might have, the National Park Service should
The Valley Forge story has been a source of inspiration for Americans
keep a close check on the property and be prepared to purchase it
for 200 years.
should a change in ownership or use appear imminent. As funds are
A portion of the campsite became a Pennsylvania State Park in
available, the property should be purchased in any event when a
1893. Now containing approximately 2,300 acres, the park is located
favorable opportunity to do SO at a good price occurs.
in Montgomery and Chester Counties near Fort Kennedy and
6. A tract of vacant land, zoned commercial, on the south side of
Phoenixville. It is administered by the Valley Forge State Park Com-
$612,885. Route 23 opposite Von Steuben's Headquarters.-Estiated Cost:
mission. The park is traversed near its north boundary by the Schuy-
kill River and near its west boundary by Valley Creek. The Penn-
This parcel should be acquired to prevent construction of a com-
sylvania Turnpike, which bisects the campsite, bounds the park on the
mercial development just across the road from Von Steuben's Quarters.
south; its main entrance is on Pennsylvania Route 393 on the east.
7. Valley Forge Village.-Estimated Cost: $630,170.
S.R. 817
S.R. 817
4
5
This tract contains a number of small residential and commercial
present recommends that the Senate pass S. 1776, if amended as
properties. It is an inholding surrounded by State park lands on three
described herein. The minority views of Senator McClure are
sides and Route 23 on the fourth side.
included at the end of this report.
The present uses of this tract have little impact on the visitor or
park values. More intensive commercial use would impact adversely
COMMITTEE AMENDMENTS
on such values, and high-rise development might be visible from the
Washington Headquarters Area. Purchase of development rights or
The Committee adopted an amendment in the nature of a substi-
purchase in fee subject to continued occupancy for a term of years
tute. The amendment differs from S. 1776 as introduced in the follow-
would be acceptable.
ing respects:
8. Tract on Thomas Road.-Estimated Cost: $322,155.
1. Immediate establishment of area rather than Secretarial
This tract contains two large old houses and related outbuildings.
announcement.
It is visible from the Pennsylvania Line (Wayne Statue segment of
2. Precise map reference.
3. Exclusion of 869 acre Chesterbrook tract at a cost of
the park tour road).
The present use complements park use. However, any future com-
$22,350,000.
mercial development would be intrusive. Since Thomas Road does
4. Acquisition authorization ceiling of $8,622,000.
not carry any substantial volume of traffic and since the residences
on the tract are of high quality, we feel that the present use of the
COST AND BUDGETARY CONSIDERATIONS
parcel is not likely to change. We feel that the tract should be included
within the park boundary SO that it could be acquired if the type of use
The fiscal year impact land acquisition authorization of $8,622,000
threatened to change, but that otherwise the tract should not be
cannot be accurately estimated due to the fact that appropriations
have been limited to amounts available under the Land and Water
acquired. Acquisition of development rights would also be appro-
priate, as would purchase in fee subject to continued occupancy for
Conservation Fund each fiscal year. It is anticipated that funds will
be allocated for this project at some point from the general appropria-
life, should the owners prefer this.
9. The tract bordering the Pennsylvania Turnpike at the western park
tions for land acquisition by the National Park Service.
The development schedule for the next five fiscal years is as follows:
boundary.-Estimated Cost: $795,170.
This tract contains two properties, on one of which is Lafayette's
Headquarters. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is negotiating to
Roads, trails,
Buildings,
purchase these properties, and they will probably be acquired within
Year
parkways
utilities, etc.
Total
the next few months. There is a possibility that the western part of
1
this tract will not be included in the purchase. If it is not, it should
211,100
211,100
2
50,000
862,300
912,300
3
306,000
2,879,800
3,185,800
be deleted from the proposed boundary.
4
270,800
818,300
1,089,100
In view of the significant contribution made by Lafayette to the
5
2,951,600
2,349,900
success of the American Revolution, the two properties should have
Total
626,800
7,723,100
8,349,900
high priority for fee acquisition in the event that purchase by the
Commonwealth does not occur.
10. Stirling Quarters Property.-Estimated Cost: $1,244,630.
The operations schedule for the next five fiscal years is as follows:
This property, bisected by Yellow Springs Road and part of a
larger ownership, contains the quarters of William Alexander, Lord
Planning,
Stirling. While less well known than many of his fellow general officers,
Year
Operation 1
development
Total
Stirling served with distinction throughout the Revolution.
This property should only be acquired in the unlikely event that the
1
2,145,000
2,145,000
2
1,801,900
1,801,900
owner might at some future time wish to dispose of it.
3
1,903,600
1,903,600
4
1,972,000
1,972,000
5.
2,010,000
2,010,100
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY
Total
9,832,600
9,832,600
S. 1776 was introduced on May 20, 1975. The Subcommittee on
1 This figure includes the hiring of 61 additional permanent personnel (rising to 71 by the 5th yr) and 15 temporary
on Parks and Recreation conducted a hearing on October 30, 1975.
(rising to 20).
The Subcommittee also conducted an on-site inspection of the area
EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS
on December 8, 1975.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION AND TABULATION OF VOTES
The pertinent legislative reports and communications received by
the Committee from the Office of Management and Budget and from
The Senate Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs, in open
the Department of the Interior setting forth Executive agency rec-
business session on April 28, 1976, by majority vote of a quorum
ommendations relating to S. 1776 are set forth below:
S.R. 817
S.R. 817
6
7
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT,
11,000 in December went into camp at Valley Forge. Located about
OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET,
20 miles west of Philadelphia, the site was defensible and yet permitted
Washington, D.C., October 20, 1975.
the Continentals to cover the western approaches to the city.
Hon. HENRY M. JACKSON,
No name evokes the spirit of patriotism and independence that gave
Chairman, Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs, U.S. Senate,
birth to the United States more than that of Valley Forge. Here
3106 New Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C.
in the utmost of want and suffering a nucleus of the army survived,
DEAR MR. CHAIRMAN: This is in response to your request of August
became disciplined and proficient, and emerged as a respectable
22, 1975, for the views of the Office of Management and Budget
fighting force. The Valley Forge story has been a source of inspiration
on S. 1776, a bill "to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to estab-
for Americans for 200 years.
lish the Valley Forge National Historical Park in the Commonwealth
A portion of the campsite became a Pennsylvania State Park in
of Pennsylvania, and for other purposes."
1893. Now containing approximately 2,300 acres, the park is located in
In its report to your Committee on S. 1776, the Department of the
Montgomery and Chester Counties near Fort Kennedy and Phoenix-
Interior notes that Valley Forge has been a part of the Pennsylvania
ville. It is administered by the Valley Forge State Park Commission.
State Park System for over 80 years, and that the State has recently
The park is traversed near its north boundary by the Schuykill River
approved a $10 million development program to upgrade the park.
and near its west boundary by Valley Creek. The Pennsylvania Turn-
Accordingly, Interior expresses reservations about enactment of the
pike, which bisects the campsite, bounds the park on the south; its
bill. Interior's report emphasizes that local governments, individual
main entrance is on Pennsylvania Route 393 on the east. The park is a
citizens and private institutions all bear responsibility for preserving,
mixture of rolling meadow and wood lots dominated by a tree-covered
developing, and operating nationally significant historic sites.
hill called Mount Joy.
We concur in the views expressed in Interior's report, and we hope
Valley Forge became a national landmark in 1962. Pursuant to the
that the Administration will be able to work constructively with the
authority of the 1966 Historic Preservation Act, grants totalling
Congress in overcoming our reservations on this legislation.
$133,962 were made in fiscal year 1973 to the State of Pennsylvania
for preservation work at Valley Forge. No subsequent requests for
Sincerely yours,
JAMES M. FREY,
grants have been received. We understand also that no grants for
Assistant Director for
the park have been made from the Land and Water Conservation
Legislative Reference.
Fund.
The current State budget for the park is $527,000 annually with 35
full-time employees. The National Park Service estimates that it
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
would need about $2 million annually to operate and maintain the
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY,
park at National Park System standards because of higher pay scales,
Washington, D.C., October 15, 1975.
fewer volunteers, and a different mix of skills if jurisdiction is trans-
Hon. HENRY M. JACKSON,
ferred.
Chairman, Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs,
In addition, the State has approved a $10 million development
U.S. Senate, Washington, D.C.
program which includes building a new museum, rehabilitating
DEAR MR. CHAIRMAN: Your Committee has requested the views of
several houses and closing two roads. The National Park Service
this Department on S. 1776, a bill "To authorize the Secretary of the
would probably adopt this plan and add sewer connections and his-
Interior to establish the Valley Forge National Historical Park in the
toric and archeological studies. The Park Service estimates that
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and for other purposes."
Federal development costs for the park, should it become a unit of the
S. 1776 would authorize the Secretary of the Interior to establish
System, could approach $16 million, which is in addition to the $10
the Valley Forge National Historical Park in the Commonwealth of
million State developments now underway.
Pennsylvania not to exceed 3,500 acres consisting of the Valley Forge
S. 1776 would place the entire responsibility for day-to-day manage-
State Park together with such additional lands and interests therein as
ment and interpretation of the existing State park, together with any
the Secretary deems necessary for the proper interpretation, protec-
additional land acquisition and development, under the Federal
tion, and administration of the national historical park. Lands may be
Government even though Pennsylvania has kept this area preserved
acquired by donation, purchase, or exchange, except that any property
as a park for 80 years.
owned by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or any political sub-
Acquisition of the 869.08 acre Chesterbrook property nearby the
division thereof may be acquired only by donation. The bill would
State park will cost approximately $22,350,000, according to our
authorize the appropriation of such sums as are necessary to carry out
current estimates; acquisition and removal of the 46-acre Keene
its provisions.
industrial plant within the park will cost an additional, $3,878,450.
Valley Forge was the site of the encampment of General George
The Chesterbrook acquisition alone would amount to almost one-third
Washington's Continental Army during the bitter winter of 1777-1778.
of the entire appropriation requested for land acquisition in the
Following the battles of Brandywine and Germantown in the fall of
National Park System in fiscal year 1976 of $77,440,000. As of fiscal
1777 Lord Howe billeted his victorious British army comfortably in
year 1975, the total land acquisition for authorized but not yet
the Patriot Capital of Philadelphia, while Washington and his army of
S.R. 817
S.R. 817
8
purchased units of the National Park System is $572,600,000. Within
this latter sum are included the acquisition of Big Cypress and Big
Thicket National Preserves and Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation
Area which the Congress has indicated must be acquired within six
MINORITY VIEWS, S. 1776
years.
15.
It is not a very great exaggeration to charge that this bill is a fraud!
We believe that the Federal Government does not have sole respon-
Fraud is a calculated deception and that is the unfortunate result of
sibility for preserving, developing and operating nationally significant
the Committee's action. I am in favor of making Valley Forge a part of
historic sites. This responsibility is shared with local governments,
the National Park System, but only if, in doing so, we can do a signifi-
individual citizens and private institutions. Accordingly, we have
cantly better job than the State of Pennsylvania is doing now. If we fail
reservations about the enactment of S. 1776. However, we would
to do so, we fail to respond to the great urgency that has led to the
look forward to the opportunity to work with the Committee in a
introduction of this legislation and we break faith with thousands of
effort to assuage these reservations.
Americans in every State who have waited for years for funding of
The Office of Management and Budget has advised that there is no
their own park proposals. We deceive local sponsors who have hoped
objection to the presentation of this report from the standpoint of the
for action to protect Park values and we deceive backers of dozens of
Administration's program.
other park proposals that this proposal should have priority over
Sincerely yours,
theirs.
DOUGLAS P. WHEELER,
Chesterbrook should be acquired if we are to make Valley Forge a
Acting Assistant Secretary of the Interior.
National Park. Historically, it has buildings relevant to the Winter of
'76 and is part of the ground Washington's men used during the
CHANGES IN EXISTING LAW
encampment. It is the last natural, undeveloped area adjacent to
Valley Forge. The Park was established and has been managed with
In compliance with subsection (4) of rule XXIX of the Standing
the objective of preserving, as close as possible, the kind of conditions
Rules of the Senate, the Committee notes that no changes in existing
Washington's men encountered. Chesterbrook is the vista essential for
law are made by the bill S. 1776, as reported.
maintaining the traditional setting. But it is being threatened by
development and although the State of Pennsylvania has preserved
the Park for 83 years, they can't afford to preserve Chesterbrook.
Congress can!
Yet the Interior Committee has decided, by passing this legislation,
that we can afford $8 million for inholdings in Valley Forge-most of
which aren't a threat to the value of the Park. We should be using,
however, Land and Water Conservation Funds for the priority uses
for which it allows and that is to acquire areas being threatened. In the
last 10 years, we have authorized over $700 million worth of Park
Service projects that we deemed vital to the conservation and preser-
vation of America. These are projects that Congress has promised in
almost every State-projects over which Valley Forge is taking priority.
Yet the primary reason for federal government involvement isn't even
included in the legislation. By failing to include Chesterbrook we are
only relieving the State of Pennsylvania of a financial burden. Valley
Forge is preserved. Chesterbrook is not, and time is running out.
The second point needed to be addressed is one which the residents
in the Valley Forge area first brought to my attention. High rise build-
ings have already blocked the view of the rolling Pennsylvania hills on
the east side. Development plans for Chesterbrook itself call for six
story apartment buildings. Development is coming and Congress must
face that problem squarely. Will a wall of high rises surround Valley
Forge in the years to come? If the Park is engulfed by development, the
concept of Valley Forge itself will be eroded. I believe local seats of
government stand ready and willing to prevent the encroachment of
high rise buildings along the Park borders. I hope Congress will stand
behind them and offer encouragement.
(9)
S.R. 817
S.R. 817
10
In order to try to resolve both the problem of acquisition and pres-
ervation of the setting, I have twice offered an amendment that would
include Chesterbrook on the basis that Congress, while not man-
dating local restrictions, would set the conditions under which we
are willing to invest the taxpayer's money. Local government should
give assurances aimed at curbing high rise development which may in
areas detract from the historical setting of the Park. In order to
establish a basis for maintaining such standards, the Secretary of
Interior has the authority to resell Chesterbrook if local governments
do not maintain appropriate local ordinances.
Perhaps Congress is doing more harm to the Park by refusing to
take the opportunity to work with local governments who wish to do
their part in helping to preserve Valley Forge as it should be preserved!
I have not taken this subject lightly. I have met with the Park
Service, the developer of Chesterbrook and have had contact with
local officials in trying to work out a reasonable and practical way of
negotiating on Chesterbrook and setting the conditions on which it
should be acquired. Even the Office of Management and Budget has
indicated their willingness to pay $12 million to assist in acquiring
Chesterbrook although financially the records would show this is not
adequate. The local residents have informally made commitments
to raise funds to help acquire the tract. The State of Pennsylvania has
supplied $10 million for improvements in the Park. Support has come
from everywhere except Congress.
In this year of our Bicentennial, we are making a big mistake by
pushing such legislation through without a more concerned look at
what we are losing. We are only deceiving the American people when
we say we have given them Valley Forge. We have not given them
anything more than what they already had. Thus if we can't pass
legislation that is a significant contribution to our National Park
System, then we should not pass it at all-but we can and we should!
JAMES A. McCLURE,
U.S. Senator.
S.R. 817
H. R. 5621
Ainety-fourth Congress of the United States of America
AT THE SECOND SESSION
Begun and held at the City of Washington on Monday, the nineteenth day of January,
one thousand nine hundred and seventy-six
An Act
To authorize the Secretary of the Interior to establish the Valley Forge National
Historical Park in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and for other
purposes.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled, That in order to
preserve and commemorate for the people of the United States the
area associated with the heroic suffering, hardship, and determination
and resolve of General George Washington's Continental Army during
the winter of 1777-1778 at Valley Forge, the Secretary of the Interior
(hereinafter referred to as the "Secretary") is authorized to establish
the Valley Forge National Historical Park (hereinafter referred to
as the "park") in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
SEC. 2. (a) The park shall comprise the area generally depicted on
the map entitled "Valley Forge National Historical Park," dated
February 1976, and numbered VF-91,000, which shall be on file and
available for inspection in the offices of the National Park Service,
Department of the Interior, Washington, District of Columbia, and
in the offices of the superintendent of the park. After advising the
Committees on Interior and Insular Affairs of the United States Con-
gress, in writing, the Secretary may make minor revisions of the
boundaries of the park when necessary by publication of a revised map
or other boundary description in the Federal Register.
(b) Within the boundaries of the park, the Secretary may acquire
lands and interests therein by donation, purchase with donated or
appropriated funds, exchange, or transfer. Any property owned by
the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or any political subdivision
thereof may be acquired only by donation. The effective date of such
donation shall not be prior to October 1, 1976.
(c) Except for property deemed by the Secretary to be essential
for visitor facilities, or for access to or administration of the park,
any owner or owners of improved property on the date of its acquisi-
tion by the Secretary may, as a condition of such acquisition, retain
for themselves and their successors or assigns a right of use and
occupancy of the improved property for noncommercial residential
purposes for a definite term not to exceed twenty-five years, or in lieu
thereof, for a term ending at the death of the owner, or the death of
his or her spouse, whichever is the later. The owner shall elect the term
to be reserved. Unless the property is wholly or partially donated, the
Secretary shall pay to the owner the fair market value of the property
on the date of such acquisition, less the fair market value on such date
of the right retained by the owner.
(d) The Secretary may terminate a right of use and occupancy
retained pursuant to this section upon his determination that such use
and occupancy is being exercised in a manner not consistent with the
purposes of this Act, and upon tender to the holder of the right of an
amount equal to the fair market value of that portion of the right
which remains unexpired on the date of termination.
(e) The term "improved property", as used in this section shall
mean a detached, noncommercial residential dwelling, the construc-
tion of which was begun before January 1, 1975 (hereafter referred
H. R. 5621-2
to as "dwelling"), together with SO much of the land on which the
dwelling is situated, the said land being in the same ownership as the
dwelling, as the Secretary shall designate to be reasonably necessary
for the enjoyment of the dwelling for the sole purpose of noncommer-
cial residential use, together with any structures accessory to the dwell-
ing which are situated on the land SO designated.
SEC. 3. When the Secretary determines that lands and interests
therein have been acquired in an amount sufficient to constitute an
administerable unit, he shall establish the park by publication of a
notice to that effect in the Federal Register Provided, That the park
shall not be established until the Secretary receives commitments
which he deems to be sufficient from the Commonwealth of Pennsyl-
vania that the appropriations made by acts 320 and 352 of 1974, and
act 12A of 1975, of the Legislature of the Commonwealth of Pennsyl-
vania, will continue to be available and obligated for development
purposes within the park. The Secretary shall administer the property
acquired for such park in accordance with the Act of August 25, 1916
(39 Stat. 535), as amended and supplemented, and the Act of
August 21, 1935 (49 Stat. 666), as amended.
SEC. 4. (a) There are hereby authorized to be appropriated such
sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act, but
not more than $8,622,000 for the acquisition of lands and interests in
lands.
(b) For the development of essential public facilities there are
authorized to be appropriated not more than $500,000. Within three
years from the date of establishment of the park pursuant to this Act,
the Secretary shall, after consulting with the Governor of the Com-
monwealth of Pennsylvania, develop and transmit to the Committees
on Interior and Insular Affairs of the United States Congress a final
master plan for the development of the park consistent with the objec-
tives of this Act, indicating:
(1) the facilities needed to accommodate the health, safety, and
interpretive needs of the visiting public;
(2) the location and estimated cost of all facilities; and
(3) the projected need for any additional facilities within the
park.
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Vice President of the United States and
President of the Senate.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JULY 4, 1976
OFFICE OF THE WHITE HOUSE PRESS SECRETARY
(Valley Forge, Pennsylvania)
THE WHITE HOUSE
REMARKS OF THE PRESIDENT
UPON SIGNING H.R. 5621
VALLEY FORGE STATE PARK
9:40 A.M. EDT
Governor Shapp, Senator Scott, Senator Schweiker,
Congressman Schulze, Secretary Kleppe, distinguished guests:
This is a great privilege for me, to sign this
very important bill on George Washington's desk. I am
deeply grateful because of the strong Congressional
support. Over a long period of years, Senator Scott,
Senator Schweiker, Congressman Schulze and many others
took the lead and the net result is that under this legis-
lation the Federal Government will take over this historic
site and it will be known as the Valley Forge National
Historic Park.
It will be a great tribute to those I mentioned
in my remarks and those who gave so much, and the sacrifices
they made.
So, I congratulate you, Scott, I congratulate
the other Members of the House and Senate who did such a
fine job in making this signing possible.
Governor, we are delighted to take over and make
certain that the good work of the State of Pennsylvania
is carried on and that this historic site will become
another in the complex of national historic sites for
the preservation of those things that mean so much to us,
those sites that contribute so significantly to our
national history and our national progress.
Thank you very much.
END
(AT 9:43 A.M. EDT)