Underground Railroad Network legislation passes Senate
Source: The News Journal
April 11, 2008
Underground Railroad Network legislation passes Senate
By NICOLE GAUDIANO
Gannett News Service
WASHINGTON -- The Senate passed a bill today authorizing more preservation funds for more than 300 Underground Railroad programs and sites, including nine in Delaware, over the next several years.
The legislation, sponsored by Sen. Joe Biden and co-sponsored by Sen. Tom Carper, both Delaware Democrats, will fund efforts in 28 states to preserve routes used by men and women who escaped slavery by heading North and to Canada.
The House version of the bill passed in July and was sponsored by Rep. Mike Castle, R-Del.
“These sites tell countless stories of heroism that we cannot afford to let slip away," Biden said in a statement. "This act ensures that the brave actions of these individuals are preserved for future generations to observe and honor.”
The legislation raises the authorized level of funding for the program, established in 1998, from $500,000 to $2.5 million. The National Park Service has projected a funding shortfall for the program of more than 70 percent by 2011 if no action is taken.
The Underground Railroad ran the length and breadth of Delaware, and many slaves found their freedom crossing the Christina River into northern Delaware, Carper said.
"I cosponsored this bill to help ensure that their struggles are not forgotten and so future generations may continue to understand and appreciate this important part of our state and national history," he said.
Castle cited reports that more passengers came through Wilmington on the Underground Railroad than any other place.
"By helping local communities share the stories of the men and women who resisted slavery through escape and flight in the Underground Railroad, this program highlights the rich history of Delaware and is an asset to our National Parks System," Castle said.
The Senate legislation was included in the Consolidated Natural Resources Act of 2008. The House is expected to approve the bill, which will then be sent to the president for his signature, according to Biden's office.
Sites and programs funded in Delaware would include:
-- Delaware statehouse in Dover.
-- Star Hill Historical Society Museum program in Dover.
-- The Rocks--Fort Christina State Park in Dover.
-- New Castle Courthouse.
-- Historical Society of Delaware in Wilmington.
-- Long Road to Freedom: Underground Railroad in Delaware program in Wilmington.
-- Thomas Garrett Home.
-- Tubman--Garrett Riverfront Park and Market Street Bridge.
-- Wilmington Friends Meeting House and Cemetery.
