July 24, 2019 - Issue: Vol. 165, No. 125 — Daily Edition116th Congress (2019 - 2020) - 1st Session
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EMANCIPATION NATIONAL HISTORIC TRAIL STUDY ACT; Congressional Record Vol. 165, No. 125
(House of Representatives - July 24, 2019)
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[Pages H7353-H7361] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] EMANCIPATION NATIONAL HISTORIC TRAIL STUDY ACT Mr. SAN NICOLAS. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 434) to designate the Emancipation National Historic Trail, and for other purposes, as amended. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows H.R. 434 Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Emancipation National Historic Trail Study Act''. SEC. 2. EMANCIPATION NATIONAL HISTORIC TRAIL STUDY. Section 5(c) of the National Trails System Act (16 U.S.C. 1244(c)) is amended by adding at the end the following: ``(47) Emancipation national historic trail.--The Emancipation National Historic Trail, extending approximately 51 miles from the Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas, along Texas State Highway 3 and Interstate Highway 45 North, to Freedmen's Town, then to Independence Heights and Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas, following the migration route taken by newly freed slaves and other persons of African descent from the major 19th century seaport town of Galveston to the burgeoning community of Freedmen's Town, located in the 4th Ward of Houston, Texas.''. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Guam (Mr. San Nicolas) and the gentleman from Utah (Mr. Curtis) each will control 20 minutes. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Guam. General Leave Mr. SAN NICOLAS. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous materials on the measure under consideration. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Guam? There was no objection. Mr. SAN NICOLAS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 434, introduced by Representative Jackson Lee of Texas, celebrates the freedom of the last American slaves by authorizing the study of an approximately 51-mile route for inclusion as a national historic trail in the National Trails System. The study will examine the suitability of designating the Emancipation National Historic Trail from Galveston to Freedmen's Town in Houston. Nearly 2\1/2\ years after President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation, United States General Gordon Granger rode into Galveston, Texas, to announce the freedom of the last American slaves. Upon gaining their freedom, many of the 250,000 newly freed slaves traversed the route from Galveston to Freedmen's Town in Houston, spreading the news to neighboring communities. This bill is a fitting tribute that honors the historic journey and lasting legacy of the last American slaves. I want to thank the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson Lee) for championing this important legislation and for her hard work moving this bill through the legislative process. I strongly support passing this bill. I yield such time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson Lee). Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman very much for yielding, and I thank him for his leadership and the leadership of Chairman Grijalva, for the full committee, and, certainly, the ranking member for his courtesies. I thank the manager tonight, a friend from Utah, for their kindness in yielding to me. This is an emotional moment for me and, as well, for many in my constituency, and I am delighted to be able to rise to give strong support to H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Study Act. I thank all of the Members, as I have indicated, and also thank Congresswoman Haaland, chair of the Natural Resources Committee's Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands, for holding the hearing that allowed the committee to learn of the strong support enjoyed by H.R. 434 and the hard work of dedicated historic preservationists to preserve the rich history of former slaves. I also thank Naomi Mitchell Carrier of Houston, Texas, for her stalwart efforts to share the stories of newly freed slaves who settled in Freedmen's Town, a section of Houston, to begin their lives as free persons during the end of the Civil War. I want to thank Ms. Carrier as an educator, historian, and author with expertise in African American music, Texas history, and heritage tourism. I also thank Ms. Eileen Lawal for her April 2019 oral testimony before the Natural Resources Committee in an amazing, passionate expression of how vital this trail will be. Ms. Lawal is the president Houston Freedmen's Town Conservancy, whose mission is to protect and preserve the history of Freedmen's Town. I also thank the Mayor of the city of Houston, Sylvester Turner; Commissioner Rodney Ellis; the mayor of the city of Galveston; my colleague, my original cosponsor, Congressman Weber, who represents the Galveston area. The work of H.R. 434 will result in only the second trail in the United States that chronicles the experience of African Americans. I am hoping that this will move swiftly through the United States House, then to the United States Senate, and then is signed by the President of the United States. Currently, the National Park Service only has one national historic trail which centers on the African American experience. It is a Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail which covers a 54-mile path between Selma and Montgomery. But as slaves lived in this land from 1619 to 1865 as slaves, a 250- year history, to think only one trail would commemorate that historic moment--although a moment in history that all of us are saddened by--it is important to capture the bravery, the courage, the strength of those families who managed to stay together. The establishment of the Emancipation National Historic Trail will be the second trail for which the National Park Services would have responsibility and, again, would tell the wonderful story for future generations of the rich history of this Nation and the role that African Americans played in the economic, political, religious, cultural, and governmental efforts of this Nation. It ties into the work that we are continuing to do. The Emancipation National Historic Trail Study Act would pave the way to working to establish an important story. It will go 51 miles from the historic Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas, along Highway 3 and Interstate 45, all the way up to Freedmen's Town and Emancipation Park and Independence Heights, which was the first city organized by African Americans here in the Southwest region. H.R. 434 requires that we study the post-Civil War history of newly freed slaves in a major slave-holding State following the largest military campaign waged on domestic soil in the history of the United States. It is important to take note of the fact that those of us west of the Mississippi did not know that Abraham [[Page H7354]] Lincoln had freed the slaves until 1865. Captain Granger came to the shores and said to us in 1865, those of our ancestors, that they had been freed. In a second inaugural address, President Abraham Lincoln declared that slavery was America's original sin: ``Yet, if God wills that it continue until all the wealth piled by the bondsman's 250 years of unrequited toil shall be sunk, and until every drop of blood drawn with the lash shall be paid by another drawn with the sword, as was said 3,000 years ago, so still it must be said `the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.' '' We know that Abraham Lincoln wanted to maintain the unity of this Nation, but he wanted it to be without slaves. The story of the trail will be one that will be enlightening because the newly freed slaves established communities. They established schools. They established churches, and they migrated into the Houston community, coming up from that Emancipation National Historic Trail. Today, the city of Houston is fortunate to call those communities Freedmen's Town and Emancipation Park. The first park that was bought in the State of Texas was bought by freed slaves in Independence Heights. Freedmen's Town survived while other communities did not, and it continues to have some of the historic buildings. By 1915, over 400 African American-owned businesses existed in Freedmen's Town. By 1920, one-third of Houston's 85,000 people lived in Freedmen's Town. Freedmen's Town is recognized as a historic district. Emancipation Park was established in 1872 as Texas' oldest park, and it was bought, as I indicated, by freed slaves for a mere $8. After the emancipation, Freedmen's Town became one of the only sanctuaries for free persons in Houston. The Freedmen's Town community has fought to preserve its structures, and though we are suffering from gentrification and the movement of our historic structures, we still have the character of that community. I am delighted that the new neighbors, the new residents of that area will now be able to recognize how important Freedmen's Town is, and we can work together to build the historical story. One such struggle was to preserve the handmade red bricks, and this evidences the restoring, the very important ceremony to put the old bricks that were made by freed slaves, to put them back into Freedmen's Town. There are many stories that have come with this recurrent retelling of this trail, and I believe it will be an important trail and important story as well. Let me also indicate that Independence Heights, as I said, was the first city, and we have already discussed the importance of Emancipation Park. On September 24, 2016, the National Museum of African American History and Culture opened its doors, after 13 years of planning and construction and over 100 years of struggle, to see the history of former slaves as part of the complex of the museums of the Smithsonian that began in 1915. I am proud to say that one of my predecessors, the Honorable Mickey Leland, was the first to seek to establish a museum dealing with slaves. Then came John Lewis, who introduced his bill in 2003. I was delighted to be able to be part of it. I am asking for strong support for H.R. 434. As I indicated, it brings back great memories of understanding our discussion in school about slavery and its aftermath. There was no commemoration to recognize that historic march, that historic migration when the slaves were freed in Galveston at that time and the settling that went on in the city of Houston. {time} 2130 It is very important to have knowledge of our history. With this trail, not only will the information about this historic trail be placed in the annals of the history of the United States, but I will be very grateful that the children and their children's children will really understand the important collective history of this great Nation. Again, I wish to thank all of those who supported this. It is important to be able to thank Harris County Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis, the African American Library at Gregory School, the Houston Freedmen's Town Conservatory, the Freedmen's Town Advisory Committee, the Emancipation Park Conservancy, the Independence Heights Redevelopment Council, the Freedmen's Town Preservation Coalition, the Kohrville Community Amos Cemetery Association, the Texas Center for African American Living History, the Rutherford B. Hayes Yates Museum, the Heritage Society of Sam Houston Park, the Houston Association of Black Psychologists, the Kinder Foundation, and Vanderbilt University. Ramon Manning, who heads the Emancipation Park Conservancy, was an avid and strong supporter, also, as I mentioned, Sylvester Turner, the mayor of the city of Houston; Jacqueline Bostic; the Fourth Ward Redevelopment Authority; the head of the Emancipation Park Conservancy; and the director of parks. As I said, the mayor of the city of Galveston was also a supporter. Mr. Speaker, I include letters in support of H.R. 434 City of Houston Library Department, Houston, TX, July 22, 2019. Hon. Sheila Jackson Lee, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee: The Houston Public Library, on behalf of the African American Library at the Gregory School (The Gregory School), endorses H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act, which had a hearing before the Subcommittee on April 2, 2019. The Library has a vested interest in the Emancipation National Historic Trail because The Gregory School currently holds and has held a very unique place in the histories of Texas, Houston, and Freedmen's Town/Fourth Ward history for more than 152 years. In 2009, The Gregory School was established by the Houston Public Library as an African American Research and Archival Center in Houston's Historic Fourth Ward or Freedmen's Town. Freedman's Town was established in 1865 as the destination of former enslaved people in Texas and Louisiana after the Civil War. In 1866, the Freedmen's Bureau opened schools for black children and adults in the area. The Texas Legislature authorized the creation of public schools for the black community in 1870. By 1872 most of the students and teachers who were at the Bureau schools, which were closing, left them to attend the state-managed Gregory Institute. The Gregory Institute was the first school for freed slaves in Houston. Mike Snyder of the Houston Chronicle said that it was ``perhaps the first school for freed slaves in the State of Texas.'' By 1876 the Gregory Institute became a part of the Houston Public School System. The building that now houses the African American Library at the Gregory School first opened in 1926, as a two-story public school building for ``colored children,'' and was named Gregory Elementary School. In March 2019, The Gregory School was designated as a ``site of Memory associated with the UNESCO Slave Route Project'' for being the first public school for freed slaves in the state of Texas. This bill will result in the Emancipation National Historic Trail, which extends approximately 51 miles from the Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas, along Texas State Highway 3 and Interstate 45 North to Freedmen's Town, then to Independence Heights, and Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas. This trail follows the migration route taken by newly freed slaves from the major 19th century seaport town of Galveston to the burgeoning community of Freedmen's Town, which is now the 4th Ward of Houston, home to the 18th Congressional District. The start of the trail is located where General Gordon Granger sailed into Galveston, Texas, with troops on June 19, 1865, to announce the freedom of the last American slaves. His announcement belatedly freed 250,000 slaves nearly two and a half years after Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. The newly freed slaves traveled from Galveston to spread the news to neighboring communities. Should this bill become law it would establish the first trail in the Southwest United States that recognizes the role of African Americans in the legacy of freedom in the United States. An Emancipation Historic Trail designation would bring long overdue historic recognition due to the role African Americans played in the building of the today's Houston and the state of Texas. In addition, the revenue generated by people who come to visit the area and walk this trail will result in tourism dollars to the city of Houston and the adjoining areas. Sincerely, Rhea Brown Lawson, Ph.D., Director of the Houston Public Library. ____ Harris County Precint One, Houston, TX, July 22, 2019. Hon. Sheila Jackson Lee, U.S. House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee: I would like to express my strong support for H.R. 434, ``Emancipation National Historic Trail Act.'' The trail will follow the migration route taken by newly freed slaves from Galveston to the vibrant settlement of [[Page H7355]] Freedmen's Town, which today is located outside downtown Houston in the 18th Congressional District. The trail would extend north 51 miles from Galveston's historic Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel AME Church along Highway 3 and Interstate 45 to Freedmen's Town and Emancipation Park in Houston. As the Harris County Precinct One Commissioner, I have the privilege of representing the Freedman's Town and Emancipation Park areas; I firmly believe the trail will further elevate the historical significance of these vibrant communities and tell an important part of our local and national history. The Emancipation National Historic Trail would be the first trail in southwest United States that recognizes the role of African Americans in the legacy of freedom. I applaud you for introducing the bill, which I wholeheartedly support, and urge your support of the creation of the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act. It would bring national attention to a period of history when our nation took significant strides to make real the promise of our founding documents that give all people the right to freedom--a worthy goal, indeed. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Rodney Ellis, Commissioner. ____ Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, July 19, 2019. Hon. Sheila Jackson Lee, U.S. House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee: As the U.S. Member of the UNESCO International Scientific Committee for the Slave Route Project: ``Resistance, Liberty and Heritage,'' I write to endorse H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act, which had a hearing before the Subcommittee on April 2, 2019. My UNESCO charge has been to help identify sites of importance for the history of Africans and their descendants in our country, and to support the nomination of these sites for a UNESCO Slave Route designation. Since 2017, I have had the pleasure of working with the organizations and individuals in Houston who have been dedicated to preserving this important and underappreciated history. After much hard work on their part, this year a number of Houston sites won the UNESCO Slave Route designation. As an historian of the African past in the Americas, I have long recognized the role Galveston played in the African slave trade, filtering newly imported Africans into the U.S. Southwest. Nor did Galveston's engagement in that trade end in 1808 when Congress officially abolished that trade. This bill will result in the Emancipation National Historic Trail, which extends approximately 51 miles from the Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas, along Texas State Highway 3 and Interstate 45 North to Freedmen's Town, then to Independence Heights, and Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas. This trail follows the migration route taken by newly freed slaves from the major 19th century seaport town of Galveston to the burgeoning community of Freedmen's Town, which is now the 4th Ward of Houston, home to the 18th Congressional District. The start of the trail is located where General Gordon Granger sailed into Galveston, Texas, with troops on June 19, 1865, to announce the freedom of the last American slaves. His announcement belatedly freed 250,000 slaves nearly two and a half years after Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. The newly freed slaves traveled from Galveston to spread the news to neighboring communities. Should this bill become law it would establish the first trail in the Southwest United States that recognizes the role of African Americans in the legacy of freedom in the United States. An Emancipation Historic Trail designation would bring long overdue historic recognition due to the role African Americans played in the building of the today's Houston and the state of Texas. In addition, the revenue generated by people who come to visit the area and walk this trail will result in tourism dollars to the city of Houston and the adjoining areas. This August I will attend the meeting of the UNESCO International Scientific Committee for the Slave Route Project in Cotonou, Benin, where we will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the project and where I will be proud to report on the successes in Texas. I hope that the passage of this bill will be an additional item to celebrate. Sincerely, Jane Landers, Gertrude Conaway Vanderbilt Chair of History, Vanderbilt University, Director, Slave Societies Digital Archive, Member, UNESCO International Scientific Committee for the Slave Route Project. ____ Hon. Sheila Jackson Lee, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee: The Kohrville Community Amos Cemetery Association endorses H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act, which had a hearing before the Subcommittee on April 2, 2019. The Amos Cemetery is the oldest African-American burial ground in the Kohrville community. Amos Cemetery is a significant part of Texas history by awarding it an Official Texas Historical Marker. The designation honors the cemetery as an important and educational part of local history. In 1881, former enslaved blacks from Alabama and Mississippi settled the area located on Cypress Creek. The Kohrville community, centered on farming, ranching and lumber industries, and offered schools for black students. Families that established this community are buried here as history is preserved by the Kohrville Community Amos Cemetery Association. This bill will result in the Emancipation National Historic Trail, which extends approximately 51 miles from the Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas, along Texas State Highway 3 and Interstate 45 North to Freedmen's Town, then to Independence Heights, and Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas. This trail follows the migration route taken by newly freed slaves from the major 19th century seaport town of Galveston to the burgeoning community of Freedmen's Town, which is now the 4th Ward of Houston, home to the 18th Congressional District. The start of the trail is located where General Gordon Granger sailed into Galveston, Texas, with troops on June 19, 1865, to announce the freedom of the last American slaves. His announcement belatedly freed 250,000 slaves nearly two and a half years after Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. The newly freed slaves traveled from Galveston to spread the news to neighboring communities. Should this bill become law it would establish the first trail in the Southwest United States that recognizes the role of African Americans in the legacy of freedom in the United States. An Emancipation Historic Trail designation would bring long overdue historic recognition due to the role African Americans played in the building of the today's Houston and the state of Texas. In addition, the revenue generated by people who come to visit the area and walk this trail will result in tourism dollars to the city of Houston and the adjoining areas. Sincerely, Cathyrine Stewart, President Kohrville Community Association. ____ Freedmen's Town Preservation Coalition Houston, TX, July 22, 2019. Hon. Sheila Jackson Lee, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee: This letter is written to advise you that the Freedmen's Town Preservation Coalition was established in June 2014 to preserve and protect historical sites and properties. We therefore, enthusiastically endorse H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act, which had a hearing before the Subcommittee on April 2, 2019. FTPC is a grassroots citizens-based organization that saw a problem with the destruction of historical cultural sites and properties in Freedmen's Town, the first place for settlement of formerly enslaved Africans. The trail of Freedom led to establishment of Freedmen's Town. FTPC stopped the destruction and removal of the historic bricks that were made, paid for and laid by freedmen and their descendants by first, developing an awareness campaign, secondly, placing a human body in the hole of destruction and finally, through legal action. Hence, as you can see, we recognize that preservation must happen and thusly, we are delighted with your proposed action to establish an Emancipation National Historic Trail. This bill will result in the Emancipation National Historic Trail, which extends approximately 51 miles from the Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas, along Texas State Highway 3 and Interstate 45 North to Freedmen's Town, then to Independence Heights, and Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas. This trail follows the migration route taken by newly freed slaves from the major 19th century seaport town of Galveston to the burgeoning community of Freedmen's Town, which is now the 4th Ward of Houston, home to the 18th Congressional District. The start of the trail is located where General Gordon Granger sailed into Galveston, Texas, with troops on June 19, 1865, to announce the freedom of the last American slaves. His announcement belatedly freed 250,000 slaves nearly two and a half years after Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. The newly freed slaves traveled from Galveston to spread the news to neighboring communities. Should this bill become law it would establish the first trail in the Southwest United States that recognizes the role of African Americans in the legacy of freedom in the United States. An Emancipation Historic Trail designation would bring long overdue historic recognition due to the role African Americans played in the building of the today's Houston and the state of Texas. In addition, the revenue generated by people who come to visit the area and walk this trail will result in tourism dollars to the city of Houston and the adjoining areas. Sincerely, Dorris Ellis Robinson, Founder and President of the Freedmen's Town Preservation Coalition. [[Page H7356]] ____ Hon. Sheila Jackson Lee, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee: The Houston Association of Black Psychologists (HABPsi) endorses H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act, which had a hearing before the Subcommittee on April 2, 2019. As a group of mental health professionals, HABPsi is of the opinion that the recognition of the Emancipation National Historic Trail would extend further the redemption of people of African descent who continue to live with the legacy of enslavement to this day. Even after more than 150 years since the Emancipation Proclamation, African Americans experience mental, emotional and spiritual pain from the experience of generations of enslavement. Acknowledgement of slavery ending . . . of free men, women and children walking away is a powerful remembrance. This bill will result in the Emancipation National Historic Trail, which extends approximately 51 miles from the Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas, along Texas State Highway 3 and Interstate 45 North to Freedmen's Town, then to Independence Heights, and Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas. This trail follows the migration route taken by newly freed slaves from the major 19th century seaport town of Galveston to the burgeoning community of Freedmen's Town, which is now the 4th Ward of Houston, home to the 18th Congressional District. The start of the trail is located where General Gordon Granger sailed into Galveston, Texas, with troops on June 19, 1865, to announce the freedom of the last American slaves. His announcement belatedly freed 250,000 slaves nearly two and a half years after Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. The newly freed slaves traveled from Galveston to spread the news to neighboring communities. Should this bill become law it would establish the first trail in the Southwest United States that recognizes the role of African Americans in the legacy of freedom in the United States. An Emancipation Historic Trail designation would bring long overdue historic recognition due to the role African Americans played in the building of the today's Houston and the state of Texas. In addition, the revenue generated by people who come to visit the area and walk this trail will result in tourism dollars to the city of Houston and the adjoining areas. Sincerely, Ms. Anelle Williams, HABPsi President. ____ Independence Heights Redevelopment Council, Inc., Hon. Sheila Jackson Lee, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee: On behalf of the Board of Directors, staff and community of historic Independence Heights. we are pleased to offer this letter supporting the establishment of the National Emancipation Heritage Trail. We are excited about this effort and have been engaged to assure all of our local churches, businesses and community groups join us as we endorse H.R. 434: the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act, referenced in a hearing held before the Subcommittee on April 2, 2019. As the local convening agency in Independence Heights, we work everyday to preserve the rich heritage of Independence Heights, the first municipality established by African Americans in the State of Texas. This is especially important to us as we are amongst only a handful of communities remaining across America that still exist today. We are hopeful that H.R. 434 will serve as a beacon and give hope to many other places that are struggling to protect heritage before it is all erased. African Americans were tenacious people. After the Civil War, they united and established settlements and even incorporated towns in the south amidst racial upheaval and reconstruction. We are proud f this heritage and are proud to stand with other communities including Galveston, Emancipation Park and Freedman's Town in Houston. The passing of this bill will result in the Emancipation National Historic Trail, which extends approximately 51 miles from the Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas, along Texas State Highway 3 and Interstate 45 North to Freedmen's Town, then to Independence Heights, and Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas. This trail follows the migration route taken by newly freed slaves where General Gordon Granger announced the Emancipation Proclamation on June 19, 1865, freeing the last American slaves. The newly freed slaves traveled spreading the news to neighboring communities. Should this bill become law it would establish the first trail in the Southwest United States that recognizes the role of African Americans in the legacy of freedom. It would also bring awareness highlighting the undertold story of many African Americans towns and places. In addition, the revenue generated by people who come to visit the area and walk this trail will result in tourism dollars to the city of Houston and the adjoining areas. Sincerely, Tanya Debose, Executive Director, Independence Heights Redevelopment Council, Inc. ____ Emancipation Park Conservancy, April 2, 2019. Hon. Deb Haaland, Chairwoman--House Subcommittee National Parks, Forest, and Public Lands Natural Resources Committee, Washington, DC. Hon. Don Young, Ranking Member--House Subcommittee National Parks, Forest, and Public Lands Natural Resources Committee, Washington, DC. Dear Chairwoman Haaland and Ranking Member Young: I write to express strong support for H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act, introduced by Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. Enactment of this bill will make possible an Emancipation National Historic Trail, which will extend 51 miles from the historic Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas, along Highway 3 and Interstate 45, north to Freedmen's Town and Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas. This trail follows the migration route taken by newly-freed slaves from the Galveston, Texas a major nineteenth century port to the vibrant settlement of Freedmen's Town, which is today the Fourth Ward of Houston, in the 18th Congressional District. The Emancipation National Historic Trail would be the first trail in the southwest United States that recognizes the role of African Americans in the legacy of freedom in the United States. An Emancipation Historic Trail designation would bring national recognition to a period of history when our nation took significant strides to make real the promise of our nation's founding documents attesting to the rights of all to live free. Sparked by the desire to have a place to commemorate the anniversary of their emancipation, known as Juneteenth, former slaves and community members in the Third and Fourth Wards led by Reverend Jack Yates, Richard Allen, Richard Brock, and Reverend Elias Dibble united to raise $1,000 in 1872 to purchase 10 acres of park land to host Juneteenth Celebrations. Emancipation Park is the most historic and culturally significant park in the city of Houston and was formerly one of the only communal spaces for Blacks in Houston. Over the years, Emancipation Park's immediate surrounding area experienced an economic boom, where many Black owned and frequented businesses, financial institutions and venues flourished in Houston's Third Ward. Emancipation Park is significant, not only as a ritual of remembrance and celebration, but also as an early act of exercising the rights of property ownership, commerce and cooperative economics amongst Blacks, which were formerly denied, known in our nation's founding documents as ``life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness''. The Emancipation National Historic Trail would serve as an invaluable opportunity to share rich cultural, social, historical and economic strides that have shaped society in the past and present. Thank you for your consideration in this designation. Sincerely, Ramon Manning, Board Chairman, Emancipation Park Conservancy. ____ Freedmen's Town Advisory Committee, Houston, TX, July 20, 2019. Hon. Sheila Jackson Lee, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Congresswoman Jackson Lee: The Freedmen's Town Advisory Committee would like to express our enthusiastic support for H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act, which had a hearing before the Subcommittee on April 2, 2019. The Freedmen's Town Advisory Committee was established by Mayor Sylvester Turner to help preserve the historical integrity of Freedmen's Town for the benefit of generations to come. Historians have stated that Freedmen's Town is potentially the ``largest linear architectural footprint still preserved in America'' of black urban life during the post-slavery Reconstruction era. The Committee has worked to promote Freedmen's Town and bring international recognition from the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization to the area. As a result of this collaboration, multiple sites located on the proposed Trail have been designated as ``Sites of Memory Associated to the UNESCO Slave Route Project''. This bill will result in the Emancipation National Historic Trail, which extends approximately 51 miles from the Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas, along Texas State Highway 3 and Interstate 45 North to Freedmen's Town, then to Independence Heights, and Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas. This trail follows the migration route taken by newly freed slaves from the major 19th century seaport town of Galveston to the burgeoning community of Freedmen's Town, which is now the 4th Ward of Houston, home to the 18th Congressional District. The start of the trail is located where General Gordon Granger sailed into Galveston, Texas, with troops on June 19, 1865, to announce the freedom of the last American slaves. His announcement belatedly freed 250,000 slaves nearly two and a half years after Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. The newly freed slaves traveled from Galveston to spread the news to neighboring communities. Should this bill become [[Page H7357]] law it would establish the first trail in the Southwest United States that recognizes the role of African Americans in the legacy of freedom in the United States. An Emancipation Historic Trail designation would bring long overdue historic recognition to the role African Americans played in the building of today's Houston and the state of Texas. In addition, the revenue generated by people who come to visit the area and walk this trail will result in tourism dollars to the city of Houston and the adjoining areas. Warm Regards, Eileen Lawal, Chair. ____ Houston Freedmen's Town Conservancy, Houston, TX, July 20, 2019. Hon. Sheila Jackson Lee, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Congresswoman Jackson Lee: With this letter, The Houston Freedmen's Town Conservancy would like to express our enthusiastic support for H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act, which had a hearing before the Subcommittee on April 2, 2019. The Houston Freedmen's Town Conservancy is a 501(c)(3) non- profit corporation that was established to protect and preserve the history of Freedmen's Town for the benefit of future generations. Freedmen's Town was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985, by the U.S. Department of Interior, and some of the historic sites located in this ``Mother Ward'' as it is commonly known, were recognized in March, 2019 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Seven of these historic sites, all located along the proposed Historic Trail, have been designated as ``Sites of Memory Associated with the UNESCO Slave Route Project''. This bill will result in the Emancipation National Historic Trail, which extends approximately 51 miles from the Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas, along Texas State Highway 3 and Interstate 45 North to Freedmen's Town, then to Independence Heights, and Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas. This trail follows the migration route taken by newly freed slaves from the major 19th century seaport town of Galveston to the burgeoning community of Freedmen's Town, which is now the 4th Ward of Houston, home to the 18th Congressional District. The start of the trail is located where General Gordon Granger sailed into Galveston, Texas, with troops on June 19, 1865, to announce the freedom of the last American slaves. His announcement belatedly freed 250,000 slaves nearly two and a half years after Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. The newly freed slaves traveled from Galveston to spread the news to neighboring communities. Should this bill become law it would establish the first trail in the Southwest United States that recognizes the role of African Americans in the legacy of freedom in the United States. An Emancipation Historic Trail designation would bring long overdue historic recognition due to the role African Americans played in the building of today's Houston and the state of Texas. In addition, the revenue generated by people who come to visit the area and walk this trail will result in tourism dollars to the city of Houston and the adjoining areas. Warm Regards, Eileen Lawal, Board of Directors President. Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding to me. I ask my colleagues to support H.R. 434 enthusiastically. We look forward to the history being told for all to know, to appreciate, and to understand. Mr. Speaker, as the author and principal sponsor, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 434, the ``Emancipation National Historic Trail Act.'' I thank Chairman Raul M. Grijalva for shepherding this legislation to the floor. I also thank Congresswoman Haaland, chair of the Natural Resources Committee's Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands for holding the hearing that allowed the Committee to learn of the strong support enjoyed by H.R. 434, and the hard work of dedicated historic preservationists to preserve the rich history of former slaves. Let me begin by thanking Ms. Naomi Mitchell Carrier of Houston, Texas, for her stalwart efforts to preserve and share the stories of newly freed slaves who settled in the Freedmen's Town section of Houston to begin lives as free persons following the end of the Civil War. Ms. Mitchell Carrier is an educator, historian, and author with expertise in African American music, Texas history, and heritage tourism. I also thank Ms. Eileen Lawal for her April 2019 oral testimony before the Natural Resources Committee, in support of H.R. 434. Ms. Lawal is the president of Houston Freedmen's Town Conservancy, whose mission is to protect and preserve the history of Freedmen's Town for the benefit of future generations. The work of H.R. 434 will result in the second trail in the United States that chronicles the experience of African Americans. Currently, the National Parks Service only has one National Historic Trail, which centers on the African American experience. It is the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail, which covers a 54-mile path between Selma and Montgomery, Alabama, was designated a National Historic Trail in 1966. The Selma to Montgomery Trail tells an important story about a pivotal moment in the nation's struggle with turning away from a history of segregation and toward a future of equality and justice. Establishment of the Emancipation National Historical Trail will be the second trail for which that the National Parks Services would have responsibility, and it will tell the story of African Americans and will preserve for future generations the rich history of the newly- freed slaves who journeyed to Houston in search of economic and political opportunity, and greater religious and cultural freedom. It is a remarkable story and one that all Americans can be proud to share with the world. The Emancipation National Historic Trail Act would pave the way for the establishment of only the second nationally-recognized historic trail that chronicles the experience of African Americans in their struggle for equality and justice. H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historical Trail Act, designates as a national historic trail the 51 miles from the historic Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas, along Highway 3 and Interstate 45, north to Freedmen's Town and Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas. H.R. 434 requires that we study the post-Civil War history of newly- freed slaves in a major slave holding state following the largest military campaign waged on domestic soil in the history of the United Sates. This period is more than just a story about the North's victory and the South's loss--it is a story about a newly-freed people emerging from over 250 years of slavery and how they survived into the 21st century when other similarly situated communities did not. In his Second Inaugural Address President Abraham Lincoln declared that slavery was America's Original Sin: Yet, if God wills that it continue [The Civil War] until all the wealth piled by the bondsman's two hundred and fifty years of unrequited toil shall be sunk, and until every drop of blood drawn with the lash shall be paid by another drawn with the sword, as was said three thousand years ago, so still it must be said ``the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.'' The bloody civil war was one phrase often used by battlefield survivors to describe what it was--blood, suffering, tears, and death, but from this struggle came a new birth of freedom for millions of former slaves. There were thousands of communities comprised of freed slaves throughout the United States--although most of these communities were found in the South, they could also be found in the North, South, and Midwestern sections of the country. Newly-freed slaves held malice toward none, including former slave owners. But the same could not be said for those who once owned slaves. Through economic hardship, natural disasters, and the period of 1919- 1921 called the ``Burnings,'' dozens of communities ceased to exist. The City of Houston is fortunate that much of this early history of former slaves has survived to this day: Freedmen's Town, Independence Heights, and the Emancipation Park areas, which are treasures in our nation's history. Freedmen's Town survived where other communities did not, and it is the only surviving 19th century community built by former slaves to have a notable number of original structures that have been protected, preserved, or restored. Freedmen's Town became the center of opportunity for freed slaves throughout the Houston area. By 1915, over 400 African American-owned businesses existed there. By 1920 one-third of Houston's 85,000 people lived in Freedmen's Town. Freedmen's Town is a recognized Historic District. Emancipation Park was established in 1872 and is Texas's oldest public park. After emancipation, Freedmen's Town became one of the only sanctuaries for freed persons in Houston, Texas. Today, Freedmen's Town hosts an impressive number of post-Civil War surviving structures--which include homes, public buildings, and commercial spaces built by former slaves. The Freedmen's Town community has fought to preserve structures, unique construction features, and period materials which are unique in their continued presence as originally installed. One such struggle was the work to preserve handmade red brick street in Freedmen's [[Page H7358]] Town that streets would have been destroyed had community leaders and preservationists not fought and succeeded in winning needed infrastructure improvements, and the re-installation of the period bricks onto the street. There are concerns that Texas Department of Transportation's announced highway improvements on I-45 in the City of Houston would impact the historic areas of Independence Heights before the study directed by this bill could begin. The reason the National Parks Service exists is to preserve the public lands for all to use and enjoy. The nation has invested a great deal in protecting national parks and historic places due to their unique beauty, typographical features, or historic relevance. The stories that make up the American experience have, for far too long, been limited to those of one group of Americans. The limited view of what is of value or interest to the American public has changed with the establishment of a Native American History Museum and most recently the opening of the National African American History and Culture on the Mall. The ``whites-only'' version of American history must end and at the same time we can make room for other American stories. In 1915, the first suggestion of creating an African American History Museum came from African American Union veterans of the Civil War. By 1988, Congressmen John Lewis and Mickey Leland introduced legislation for a stand-alone African American history museum within the Smithsonian Institution. Their bill faced significant opposition in Congress due to its cost. Supporters of the African American museum tried to salvage the proposal by suggesting that the Native Indian museum (then moving through Congress) and African American museum share the same space. But the compromise did not work, and Congress took no further action on the bill. In 2001, Congressman Lewis and Congressman J.C. Watts reintroduced legislation for a museum in the House of Representatives which became law, creating a federal commission to study the idea of an African American Museum near Capitol Hill. After completing a 2-year study the Commission determined that an African American history museum would be of substantial benefit to the nation. In 1994, despite winning approval in both House and Senate committees, the bill died once more, due to opposition by North Carolina Senator Jesse Helms, who refused to allow the legislation to come to the Senate floor despite bipartisan support. In 2003, the House passed the ``National Museum of African American History and Culture Act,'' which passed the Senate and was signed into law by President George W. Bush. On September 24, 2016, the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) opened its doors after 13 years of planning, and construction and over a hundred years of struggle to see the history of former slaves as part of the complex of museums on the Capital Mall began in 1915. The success of the National Museum of African American History and Culture reveals the hunger in the nation and across the world for authentic stories from our past. Since its opening the NMAAHC has generated a sustained demand for tickets, an unprecedented problem for a museum--where interest far outstrips capacity to accommodate visitors. About three million people have already visited the NMAAHC, which is the newest museum in the Smithsonian Institution and houses close to 37,000 rare artifacts within three stories. Not only is demand for tickets high, according to the museum's associate director, so is the amount of time visitors spend in the museum once they get in. The museum's associate director told NPR.com that while most venues have a ``dwell'' time of an hour and 45 minutes to two hours, visitors are spending up to six hours exploring. It's already an important part of many people's list of things to do in Washington, D.C.'' There is a hunger in the nation for stories about African Americans from our past that link us to our present and act as guideposts to our future. This is a momentous opportunity--one that fires the imagination for fully telling the American story from the voices and perspectives of all of our nation's citizens. The richness of these diverse stories is found in Houston's African American historic areas. These areas of Houston tell the story of many peoples who are part of our nation's history by filling in gaps of the story of the United States that too many Americans do not know or understand because these stories are now being taught as part of American history. It is important to ensure that the public trust to preserve our nation's history is also a commitment to preserving all of its history, including that which reflects both its best and worst moments. By way of example, when I was a young girl, I learned the story of Crispus Attucks--a key figure in our nation's history who on the eve of the American Revolution lost his life during a protest of British rule prior to the start of the Revolutionary War. However, Crispus Attucks was not the sole person of African descent who wanted to see freedom from British rule--he fought for the United States and was joined by thousands of other persons of African descent who participated in the Revolutionary War. Over time the history of the American War for Independence is revealing a tapestry of diversity that had not been well understood. In the 1980s the daughters of the American Revolution initially would not accept black women as members until one stood up and took a stand. According to a March 1984 story in the Washington Post, Lena Lorraine Santos Ferguson, a retired school secretary, was denied membership in a Washington, D.C. chapter of the DAR because she was black. Her two white sponsors, Margaret M. Johnston and Elizabeth E. Thompson, were shocked at Ms. Ferguson's rejection. Ms. Ferguson met the lineage requirements and could trace her ancestry to Jonah Gay, a white man who fought in Maine. When the reason for not admitting Ms. Ferguson became known, the public reaction was swift and negative. The Daughters of the American Revolution revisited their denial of Ms. Ferguson, and upon reconsideration accepted her as a member, making her the first of many women of color who became members of the organization. The history of the United States is more complex and immensely richer than would be apparent if we only consider the history of one group of people. The tenacity demonstrated and the focus on historical accuracy and the need to save what is a unique aspect of American history for future generations is important. For this reason, I ask my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to vote in support of H.R. 434. Mr. CURTIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 434, which would authorize the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a special resource study of the proposed Emancipation National Historic Trail. This 51-mile trail follows the migration route taken by newly freed slaves and other persons of African descent from the major 19th-century seaport town of Galveston to the burgeoning community of Freedmen's Town in Houston. Although President Abraham Lincoln officially ended slavery through the Emancipation Proclamation on September 22, 1862, many slaves were not freed until much later when news of the proclamation reached their towns. The last of those slaves lived in the South and were freed on June 19, 1865, after the Emancipation Proclamation was read in Galveston. On January 1, 1866, the Emancipation Proclamation was read at the African Methodist Episcopal Church on 20th and Broadway, now Reedy Chapel. A large number of the freed slaves marched from the courthouse on 21st and Ball Streets to the church, where the director of the Freedmen's Bureau read the proclamation to the marchers. The Emancipation Proclamation is still read at the church each year at the Juneteenth celebration. Houston, Texas, has rich ties to African American history. The Emancipation Trail proposed by H.R. 434 ends in Freedmen's Town and Emancipation Park in Houston. Freedmen's Town is one of the first and the largest of the post-Civil War Black urban communities in Texas. The community was established by former Texas slaves who left their plantations for the safety of Houston. Emancipation Park is also significant to Houston African American history. In the years following the emancipation of slaves in Texas, African American populations across Texas collected money to buy property dedicated to the Juneteenth celebrations. In honor of their freedom, they named it Emancipation Park. This bill is an important reminder of the struggles of African Americans throughout our Nation's history as we have worked to form a more perfect union. I support Ms. Jackson Lee's efforts to study the proposed trail and highlight the important African American history of Texas. [[Page H7359]] Mr. Speaker, I urge the adoption of this measure. Mr. Speaker, I have no more speakers, and I yield back the balance of my time. Mr. SAN NICOLAS. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for his support, and I yield back the balance of my time. Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record the following letters in support of H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act: City of Houston, Houston, TX, March 26, 2019. Hon. Raul M. Grijalva, Chairman, Natural Resources Committee, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Chairman Grijalva: I write today to express my support of Representative Sheila Jackson Lee's bill, H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act. Passage of this bill will pave the way for the Emancipation National Historic Trail, which will extend approximately 51 miles from the Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas, along Texas State Highway 3 and Interstate 45 North to Freedmen's Town and Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas. This trail follows the migration route taken by newly freed slaves from the major 19th century seaport town of Galveston to the burgeoning community of Freedmen's Town, which is now the 4th Ward of Houston, home to the 18th Congressional District. The start of the trail is located where General Gordon Granger rode into Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, to announce the freedom of the last American slaves. His announcement belatedly freed 250,000 slaves nearly two and a half years after Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. The newly freed slaves traveled from Galveston to spread the news to neighboring communities. The Emancipation National Historic Trail would be the first trail in the Southwest United States that recognizes the role that African Americans in the legacy of freedom in the United States. An Emancipation Historic Trail designation would bring long overdue historic recognition due to the role African Americans played in the building of the today's Houston and the state of Texas. In addition, the revenue generated by people who come to visit the area and walk this trail will result in tourism dollars to the city of Houston and the surrounding area. I urge you to pass this bill to create the Emancipation National Historic Trail. Sincerely, Sylvester Turner, Mayor. ____ Kinder Foundation, Houston, TX, July 22, 2019. Hon. Sheila Jackson Lee, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee: The Kinder Foundation endorses H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act, which had a hearing before the Subcommittee on April 2, 2019. The Kinder Foundation actively supports the community development and preservation of the historic Freedmen's Town and Third Ward in Houston, Texas, which has a direct relationship and serves as a key location in H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act. The Kinder Foundation is participating in planning efforts for Freedmen's Town and provided early funding for the renovation of Emancipation Park located in Third Ward. Emancipation Park began as 10 acres of land purchased in 1872, by Reverend Jack Yates, Richard Allen, Richard Brock, and Reverend Elias Dibble to serve as a gathering place for former slaves living in the Third and Fourth Wards to commemorate the anniversary of their emancipation (``Juneteenth''). The Kinder Foundation also actively supports the Emancipation Park Conservancy to further programming and operations at Emancipation Park, as well as the Emancipation Community Development Partnership and the Emancipation Economic Development Council in an effort to revitalize the area through affordable housing and education initiatives. Passing H.R. 434, will have an enormous impact and be a major contribution towards the historical and cultural preservation of three of Houston's most historically significant neighborhoods. This bill will result in the Emancipation National Historic Trail, which extends approximately 51 miles from the Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas, along Texas State Highway 3 and Interstate 45 North to Freedmen's Town, then to Independence Heights, and Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas. This trail follows the migration route taken by newly freed slaves from the major 19th century seaport town of Galveston to the burgeoning community of Freedmen's Town, which is now the 4th Ward of Houston, home to the 18th Congressional District. The start of the trail is located where General Gordon Granger sailed into Galveston, Texas, with troops on June 19, 1865, to announce the freedom of the last American slaves. His announcement belatedly freed 250,000 slaves nearly two and a half years after Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. The newly freed slaves traveled from Galveston to spread the news to neighboring communities. Should this bill become law it would establish the first trail in the Southwest United States that recognizes the role of African Americans in the legacy of freedom in the United States. An Emancipation Historic Trail designation would bring long overdue historic recognition due to the role African Americans played in the building of the today's Houston and the state of Texas. In addition, the revenue generated by people who come to visit the area and walk this trail will result in tourism dollars to the city of Houston and the adjoining areas. Sincerely, Nancy G. Kinder, President & CEO. ____ Rutherford B. H. Yates Museum, Inc., Houston, TX. Hon. Shiela Jackson Lee, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee: The Rutherford B H Yates Museum, Inc. endorses H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act, which had a hearing before the Subcommittee on April 2, 2019. The Rutherford B H Yates Museum, Inc. believes that the approval of H.R. 434 will be the first major step toward the goal for the 40 block Freedmen's Town National Register Historic Place-TCP and its related sites, to become U.S. National Landmarks and ultimately to receive UNESCO-World Heritage Cite recognition. In March 2019, the first six (6) of the (74) sites that RBHYates Museum, Inc. had nominated in 2016, have been awarded as ``Sites of Memory Associated with the UNESCO-Slave Route''. We continue to submit documents for consideration of the nominated sites, in the UNESCO-Slave Route process. This bill will result in the Emancipation National Historic Trail, which extends approximately 51 miles from the Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas, along Texas State Highway 3 and Interstate 45 North to include the Freedmen's Town National Register Historic Place-TCP, then to Independence Heights, and Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas. This trail follows a migration route taken by previously enslaved peoples from the major 19th century seaport town of Galveston to the founding of the earliest Urban settlement of Freedmen's Town-4th Ward, Houston, home to the 18th Congressional District. The start of the trail is located where General Gordon Granger sailed into Galveston, Texas, with troops on June 19, 1865, to announce the freedom of the last American slaves. His announcement belatedly freed slaves nearly two and a half years after Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. The newly freed slaves traveled from Galveston and from Plantations throughout Texas. to other cities and states in search of family members who had been previously sold into slavery, and to spread the news of freedom to neighboring communities. The Emancipation National Historic Trail Act would bring long overdue historic recognition for the role African Americans played in the building of Houston and Texas. In addition, the revenue generated by heritage cultural tourists who visit and walk this trail will benefit the City of Houston and the State of Texas. Sincerely, Theophilus Herrington, Ph.D. ____ The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park, Houston, TX. Hon. Sheila Jackson Lee, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee: The Heritage Society endorses H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act, which had a hearing before the Subcommittee on April 2, 2019. Since its founding, The Heritage Society, a non-profit 501(c)(3), has acquired and restored ten historic buildings in the city of Houston. The result is a treasure for our city, with buildings that tell the stories of how diverse segments of society lived daily, from freed slaves building new lives for themselves to prosperous merchant families from Houston's early years. The Heritage Society is an educational institution whose mission is to tell the stories of the diverse history of Houston and Texas through its collections, exhibitions and programing. This bill will result in the Emancipation National Historic Trail, which extends approximately 51 miles from the Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas, along Texas State Highway 3 and Interstate 45 North to Freedmen's Town, then to Independence Heights, and Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas. This trail follows the migration route taken by newly freed slaves from the major 19th century seaport town of Galveston to the burgeoning community of Freedmen's Town, which is now the 4th Ward of Houston, home to the 18th Congressional District. Two of the historic buildings cared for by The Heritage Society, the Jack Yates House and the 4th Ward Cottage, have been nominated as ``Sites of Memory'' as part of the UNESCO Slave Route Project. Obtaining international recognition to the Jack Yates House signifies its importance as a place that embodies what is was to be an enslaved African-American, who, once freed, became a community leader whose lasting impact is seen today. Recognizing this Historic Trail would truly provide a larger understanding of how Houston's history is both unique and [[Page H7360]] also very much a part of the larger story of the impact of enslavement of African Americans in the United States. Should this bill become law it would establish the first trail in the Southwest United States that recognizes the role of African Americans in the legacy of freedom in the United States. An Emancipation Historic Trail designation would bring long overdue historic recognition due to the role African Americans played in the building of the today's Houston and the state of Texas. In addition, the revenue generated by people who come to visit the area and walk this trail will result in tourism dollars to the city of Houston and the adjoining areas. Sincerely, Alison A. Bell, Executive Director. ____ Hon. Sheila Jackson Lee, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee: The Texas Center for African American Living History endorses H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act, which had a hearing before the Subcommittee on April 2, 2019. Owing to my research to document historic sites and markers from Galveston to Houston Freedmen's National Historic District, I, Naomi Carrier, develop a written testimony that has become a part of the historical record for H.R. 434, as expressed in this excerpt from Congresswoman, Sheila Jackson Lee: ``As the founder and CEO of Texas Center for African American Living History, your insight will be beneficial to the effort to see H.R. 434 become law. In the past thirty years, you have endeavored to bring a fresh perspective to Texas History through performance art and education. If you will prepare written remarks in support of the bill, I will see that your written statement is placed into the record for the hearing and that you will be recognized. There will also be a seat for you to observe this historic hearing. I ask that you plan to attend, you should plan to arrive the evening before or the morning of the hearing to allow us an opportunity to speak before the hearing begins. Your written testimony is welcomed and appreciated. Very truly yours, Sheila Jackson Lee Member of Congress'' This bill will result in the Emancipation National Historic Trail, which extends approximately 51 miles from the Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas, along Texas State Highway 3 and Interstate 45 North to Freedmen's Town, then to Independence Heights, and Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas. This trail follows the migration route taken by newly freed slaves from the major 19th century seaport town of Galveston to the burgeoning community of Freedmen's Town, which is now the 4th Ward of Houston, home to the 18th Congressional District. The start of the trail is located where General Gordon Granger sailed into Galveston, Texas, with troops on June 19, 1865, to announce the freedom of the last American slaves. His announcement belatedly freed 250,000 slaves nearly two and a half years after Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. The newly freed slaves traveled from Galveston to spread the news to neighboring communities. Should this bill become law it would establish the first trail in the Southwest United States that recognizes the role of African Americans in the legacy of freedom in the United States. An Emancipation Historic Trail designation would bring long overdue historic recognition due to the role African Americans played in the building of the today's Houston and the state of Texas. In addition, the revenue generated by people who come to visit the area and walk this trail will result in tourism dollars to the city of Houston and the adjoining areas. My research gathered over the past 30 years will be an invaluable asset to the National Park Service in the study of the Trail and relevant 19th and early 20th century historic sites in the surrounding areas. Sincerely, Naomi Mitchell Carrier, M.Ed.--Professor, Houston Community College, Author, Go Down, Old Hannah, Founder, Texas Center for African American Living History (TCAALH), Director, Performing and Visual Arts Workshop. ____ Fourth Ward Redevelopment Authority, TIRZ No. 14, Freedman's Town, Houston, TX, April 1, 2019. Re H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act Hon. Deb Haaland, Chairwoman, House Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands, Natural Resources Committee, Washington, DC. Dear Chairwoman Haaland: On behalf of the Boards of Directors for Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone Number Fourteen, City of Houston, Texas (``TIRZ #14'') and Fourth Ward Redevelopment Authority (the ``Authority''), please allow this correspondence to serve as our expression of support for H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act, introduced by Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. It is our understanding that the enactment of this bill will make possible an Emancipation National Historic Trail which will extend 51 miles from the historic Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas along Highway 3 and Interstate 45 north to Freedman's Town and Emancipation Park located in Houston, Texas. The trail will follow the migration route taken by newly-freed slaves from Galveston, Texas, a major nineteenth century port, to the vibrant settlement of Freedmen's Town which today is also referenced as the Fourth Ward Houston within the 18th Congressional District. The Emancipation National Historic Trail would be the first trail in the southwest region of the United States that recognizes the role of African Americans in the legacy of freedom in the United States. An Emancipation Historic Trail designation would bring national recognition to the period of time when our nation took significant strides to make real the promise of our nation's founding documents attesting to the rights of all men to live free. Freedmen's Town is contained within the boundaries of TIRZ #14 and within our zone we have significant structures that are directly related to the founders of Emancipation Park. Of note are the historic brick streets that were laid by freed slaves; Bethel Church founded by Jack Yates which has been restored as an open space park; and The African American Library at Gregory School which originally served as the first public school for black students. Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, the oldest African American church in Houston (1876) whereby Jack Yates served as pastor still resides in the historic boundaries of Freedmen's Town just east of the TIRZ boundaries. Through our project plan that directs TIRZ #14 to allocate its funds to historical preservation, among other designated projects, the Authority has set its priorities on preserving and renovating the institutional vestiges of Freedman's Town to assure that for generations to come the story of the African-American experience in Houston can be retold and personally experienced. We strongly believe that The Emancipation National Historic Trail will lend itself to act as the impetus by which the nation will come to know and experience the tenacity and strength of the freed slave to build, thrive and prosper in its own community. Therefore, it is an honor to lend our support to the H.R. 434, The Emancipation National Historic Trail Act. Very truly yours, Jacqueline Bostic, Chair. ____ Emancipation Park Conservancy, April 2, 2019. Hon. Deb Haaland, Chairwoman, House Subcommittee National Parks, Forest, and Public Lands, Natural Resources Committee, Washington, DC. Hon. Don Young, Ranking Member, House Subcommittee National Parks, Forest, and Public Lands, Natural Resources Committee, Washington, DC. Dear Chairwoman Haaland and Ranking Member Young: I write to express strong support for H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act, introduced by Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. Enactment of this bill will make possible an Emancipation National Historic Trail, which will extend 51 miles from the historic Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas, along Highway 3 and Interstate 45, north to Freedmen's Town and Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas. This trail follows the migration route taken by newly-freed slaves from the Galveston, Texas a major nineteenth century port to the vibrant settlement of Freedmen's Town, which is today the Fourth Ward of Houston, in the 18th Congressional District. The Emancipation National Historic Trail would be the first trail in the southwest United States that recognizes the role of African Americans in the legacy of freedom in the United States. An Emancipation Historic Trail designation would bring national recognition to a period of history when our nation took significant strides to make real the promise of our nation's founding documents attesting to the rights of all to live free. Sparked by the desire to have a place to commemorate the anniversary of their emancipation, known as Juneteenth, former slaves and community members in the Third and Fourth Wards led by Reverend Jack Yates, Richard Allen, Richard Brock, and Reverend Elias Dibble united to raise $1,000 in 1872 to purchase 10 acres of park land to host Juneteenth Celebrations. Emancipation Park is the most historic and culturally significant park in the city of Houston and was formerly one of the only communal spaces for Blacks in Houston. Over the years, Emancipation Park's immediate surrounding area experienced an economic boom, where many Black owned and frequented businesses, financial institutions and venues flourished in Houston's Third Ward. Emancipation Park is significant, not only as a ritual of remembrance and celebration, but also as an early act of exercising the rights of property ownership, commerce and cooperative economics amongst Blacks, which were formerly denied, known in our nation's founding documents as ``life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness''. The Emancipation National Historic Trail would serve as an invaluable opportunity to [[Page H7361]] share rich cultural, social, historical and economic strides that have shaped society in the past and present. Thank you for your consideration in this designation. Sincerely, Ramon Manning, Board Chairman, Emancipation, Park Conservancy. ____ National Trust for Historic Preservation, March 29, 2019. Chairman Raul Grijalva, Washington, DC. Ranking Member Rob Bishop, Washington, DC. Dear Chairman Grijalva and Ranking Member Bishop: We appreciate the opportunity to share our support for H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act. The National Trust enthusiastically endorses this legislation and looks forward to its enactment in this Congress. Interests of the National Trust for Historic Preservation The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a privately-funded charitable, educational, and nonprofit organization chartered by Congress in 1949 to ``facilitate public participation in historic preservation'' and to further the purposes of federal historic preservation laws. The intent of Congress was for the National Trust ``to mobilize and coordinate public interest, participation, and resources in the preservation and interpretation of sites and buildings.'' With headquarters in Washington, D.C., nine field offices, 27 historic sites, more than one million members and supporters, and a national network of partners in states, territories, and the District of Columbia, the National Trust works to save America's historic places and advocates for historic preservation as a fundamental value in programs and policies at all levels of government. H.R. 434, Emancipation National Historic Trail Act We appreciate Representative Sheila Jackson Lee's leadership on this legislation to establish the Emancipation National Historic Trail in the state of Texas. The route would extend approximately 51 miles from the Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston along Texas State Highway 3 and Interstate Highway 45 North to Freedmen's Town and Emancipation Park located in Houston. The designation of this historic trail-to be administered by the National Park Service-traces the 19th century migration route from Galveston to Houston of newly freed slaves and persons of African descent. On June 19, 1865, General Gordon Granger arrived at Galveston to announce the freedom of the last American slaves, which belatedly freed approximately 250,000 slaves nearly two and a half years after Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. Their migration to the community of Freedmen's Town located in the Fourth Ward of Houston would be codified in this proposed historic trail designation and further allow the National Park Service to tell the stories of all Americans. National Historic Trails administered by the National Park Service provide an opportunity to recognize, commemorate, and interpret travel routes of national historic significance while sharing the significant histories of our nation. We urge Congressional support of this legislation and look forward to enactment of H.R. 434. Sincerely, Pam Bowman, Director of Public Lands Policy. ____ Emancipation Park Conservancy, Houston, TX, April 2, 2019. Hon. Deb Haaland, Chairwoman--House Subcommittee National Parks, Forest, and Public Lands, Natural Resources Committee, Washington, DC. Hon. Don Young, Ranking Member--House Subcommittee National Parks, Forest, and Public Lands, Natural Resources Committee, Washington, DC. Dear Chairwoman Haaland and Ranking Member Young: I write to express strong support for H.R. 434, the Emancipation National Historic Trail Act, introduced by Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. Enactment of this bill will make possible an Emancipation National Historic Trail, which will extend 51 miles from the historic Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas, along Highway 3 and Interstate 45, north to Freedmen's Town and Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas. This trail follows the migration route taken by newly-freed slaves from the Galveston, Texas a major nineteenth century port to the vibrant settlement of Freedmen's Town, which is today the Fourth Ward of Houston, in the 18th Congressional District. The Emancipation National Historic Trail would be the first trail in the southwest United States that recognizes the role of African Americans in the legacy of freedom in the United States. An Emancipation Historic Trail designation would bring national recognition to a period of history when our nation took significant strides to make real the promise of our nation's founding documents attesting to the rights of all to live free. Sparked by the desire to have a place to commemorate the anniversary of their emancipation, known as Juneteenth, former slaves and community members in the Third and Fourth Wards led by Reverend Jack Yates, Richard Allen, Richard Brock, and Reverend Elias Dibble united to raise $1,000 in 1872 to purchase 10 acres of park land to host Juneteenth Celebrations. Emancipation Park is the most historic and culturally significant park in the city of Houston and was formerly one of the only communal spaces for Blacks in Houston. Over the years, Emancipation Park's immediate surrounding area experienced an economic boom, where many Black owned and frequented businesses, financial institutions and venues flourished in Houston's Third Ward. Emancipation Park is significant, not only as a ritual of remembrance and celebration, but also as an early act of exercising the rights of property ownership, commerce and cooperative economics amongst Blacks, which were formerly denied, known in our nation's founding documents as ``life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness''. The Emancipation National Historic Trail would serve as an invaluable opportunity to share rich cultural, social, historical and economic strides that have shaped society in the past and present. Thank you for your consideration in this designation. Sincerely, Ramon Manning, Board Chairman--Emancipation Park Conservancy. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Guam (Mr. San Nicolas) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 434, as amended. The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill, as amended, was passed. The title of the bill was amended so as to read: ``A bill to amend the National Trails System Act to provide for the study of the Emancipation National Historic Trail, and for other purposes.''. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table. ____________________
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