Protest Against American Revolution Center at Valley Forge National Historical Park Planned for May 15
Will Gen. George Washington return to his Valley Forge headquarters next week? A protest against the American Revolution Center, with "period re-enactors," is planned for May 15. Photo by Hendricks NY via flickr.
Don't be surprised if George Washington returns to Valley Forge next week. A grassroots group is planning a rally for May 15 to protest plans to develop a portion of 78 acres of rolling land pressed on three sides by Valley Forge National Historical Park. Part of the protest will feature "re-enactors in period costumes."
According to a release announcing the event, "local residents will rally to show their opposition to and increase awareness of the American Revolution Center’s plans to build an over-sized commercial complex within Valley Forge."
"Valley Forge National Historical Park’s historic landscape is imminently threatened by an ill-considered development proposal on private land in the park," adds the release. "The American Revolution Center proposes building a commercialized museum complex, including a hotel and conference center, which will have a detrimental impact on the park. Valley Forge is not only an important part of Lower Providence Township, but also a national icon that must be protected."
As the release indicates, some folks believe the American Revolution Center's planned development is grandiose and will jeopardize the setting and possibly impact historically significant land that was utilized by General George Washington's troops.
The rally is scheduled to run from noon to 1 p.m. at the Montgomery County Courthouse in Norristown, Pennsylvania. For more information, check out this site.
Comments
Ryan Balas (not verified)
God. Another protest to protect our esteemed blah blah blah blah. I am an evironmentalist. I walk to shop, donate to causes, pick up litter in the parks, etc.
But, I don't see anything wrong with building something to enhance the visitors experience and bring in a little money to help support the area those people are screaming and protesting about keeping the same.
People need to be educated when visiting our National Parks and such. They don't get it in the schools anymore and unless they are history buffs - most of the people show up - see an empty field and leave - stopping at McDonald's on the way out of town. I gave tours and worked with two National Monuments and a group with Yosemite - if you don't offer the beautiful welcome center and have an introductory video (download it to your IPOD) - you lose them.
And, if you say - you don't care - your a moron. If you can't get the average person to care - you are eventually going to lose it - either to budget cuts and disrepair or a sale or trade of the land you are trying to protect.
The structure can be built "green". Because it is east coast, it will be easier to sink some items and put them underground so as not to spoil the view. There could be underground parking so that there is no sea of asphalt. If there is a parking garage - it could be terraced and landscaped with a walking park on the roof with trees and flowers.
I hate to quote Mr. Gingrich but he said that we defeated our enemies and took care of ourselves in less than five years with World War II, it took 27 years for them to get everything they needed to build an extra runway at Atlanta's airport. I agree something is wrong.
Don't protest - ask to be involved in the planning session. Protest to get involved but, save your energy to protesting Darth Vader and his boss who still have 8 months left to destroy this country.
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