Press Releases

Washington, D.C. – Legislation introduced by U.S. Representative Scott Perry (PA-04) to preserve the Lincoln Train Station passed the U.S. House of Representatives this evening by a vote of 396-0.  President Abraham Lincoln arrived at the Train Station on November 18, 1863, prior to delivering the Gettysburg Address the following day.  This is the second piece of legislation introduced by the freshman congressman that has passed the full U.S. House.

“The Battle of Gettysburg marks a turning point in American history,” said Rep. Perry. “By preserving the Lincoln Train Station, I hope to inspire my fellow citizens to learn and appreciate the significance of the Gettysburg Campaign, the Gettysburg Address, the Civil War and the bravery of the soldiers who, in President Lincoln's words, "gave the last full measure of devotion."

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Lincoln Train Station also served as a hospital during the Battle of Gettysburg, transporting wounded soldiers after the battle.  The Lincoln Train Station now is operated by the Gettysburg Convention and Visitors Bureau and owned by the Borough of Gettysburg.  The Borough of Gettysburg approached Gettysburg National Military Park (GNMP) about incorporating the station within GNMP to better ensure its preservation.  The National Park Service plans to utilize the station as a downtown Gettysburg information center.  The Gettysburg Foundation, a non-profit partner of the park, secured the funds necessary to purchase the train station from the Borough of Gettysburg and donate it to GNMP once the boundary legislation is passed.

Representative Perry's legislation (H.R. 1513) also expands the boundaries of GNMP to include 45 acres of donated land along Plum Run in Cumberland Township.  This property abuts land already owned by the National Park Service.  Although both properties in question involve willing transactions, the legislation specifically forbids the use of eminent domain for acquisition of either property and will not utilize any federal funds.

The Gettysburg Foundation and Gettysburg National Military Park recently commemorated the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg and the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery.  In addition to preserving our heritage, such historic preservation and tourism efforts remain a critical part of the regional economy. More than 235,000 visitors took part in the 10 days of 150^th anniversary events and contributed about $100 million to the local economy.  In 2012, 3.4 million people visited Adams County and contributed $628 million to the economy.

“Congressman Perry understands the incredible significance of Gettysburg, the courage and sacrifice of the men who fought and died here, and the meaning and relevancy of the Gettysburg Address,” said Joanne M. Hanley, President of the Gettysburg Foundation.  “We are so grateful to the Congressman for his unwavering support in shepherding this bill through Congress on behalf of the American people, so that the National Park Service can preserve the Lincoln Train Station for future generations to continue to be inspired in their lives today by the stories from 150 years ago at Gettysburg.  The Gettysburg Foundation, as a partner to Gettysburg National Military Park, will assist in that mission until such time the Train Station can be turned over to the park.”

U.S. Senators Bob Casey and Pat Toomey introduced similar legislation (S. 782), which passed the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee in November. The bill is pending a vote by the full Senate.

H.R. 1513 is the second bill introduced by Rep. Perry that has passed the U.S. House. In October, the House adopted (H.R. 2848), which included a bi-partisan amendment by Rep. Perry to reform State Department bureaucracy to better protect the lives of American diplomats serving overseas.  Rep. Perry's amendment was incorporated from stand-alone legislation he introduced with U.S. Representative Grace Meng (D-NY-6) in February.

Residents of the 4th District are welcome to contact Congressman Perry and his staff at any of the offices or via Perry.House.Gov, where they can sign up for e-mail updates and for his Facebook, Twitter and YouTube pages.