East Greenbush, N.Y. - Today, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, along with Congressman Paul Tonko (D-NY), introduced the Strengthening America’s Turning Point Act to rename Saratoga National Historical Park to Saratoga National Battlefield Park.
“As Co-Chair of the Congressional Battlefield Caucus, I will continue to lead the charge to ensure that our many battlefields in Upstate New York and the North Country are preserved,” said Congresswoman Elise Stefanik. “Renaming Saratoga National Historical Park to Saratoga National Battlefield Park will more accurately reflect the historical significance of the site and emphasize the crucial military engagements that took place there. I’m honored to lead this legislation that acknowledges the significance of the turning point in the Revolutionary War and one of the most decisive American battles of the American Revolution.”
“As families and communities across our nation prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July, I am once again reminded of the pivotal role our region played in the fight for America’s freedom and independence,” Congressman Paul Tonko said. “With the designation of “Saratoga National Battlefield Park,” the importance of this national park will be better and more accurately reflected. I’m proud to join Congresswoman Stefanik in introducing this legislation.”
Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Chairman and Saratoga 250th Commissioner Phil Barrett said, “Saratoga County thanks Congresswoman Stefanik and Congressman Tonko for carrying this legislation to restore the Saratoga National Historical Park to Saratoga National Battlefield Park. The Battles of Saratoga, which took place on this hallowed ground, were a pivotal turning point in the American Revolutionary War, marking the first time in world history that a British Army laid down their arms. This name change would distinguish the park as a historical battlefield and provide a unique identifier to clearly inform tourists of the significance of the park to American independence.”
"With America's and the Battles of Saratoga 250th anniversaries fast approaching, we are grateful Congresswoman Stefanik and Congressman Tonko are answering Saratoga County and area stakeholders' call to rename our vital Revolutionary park after the battlefield victory that changed the world. America's Turning Point in our War for Independence happened here. It is our generation's turn to connect it to people as generations before did in preserving the battlefield grounds, raising money for markers, and the centennial effort to raise the Saratoga Monument. This congressional action will be a timely part of a sustained effort to engage and promote Saratoga’s Revolutionary heritage to inspire another generation of Americans and international visitors alike," said William Teator, Executive Director of Campaign for Saratoga 250, Inc.
"Thank you to Representatives Stefanik and Tonko for sponsoring the Saratoga National Battlefield Park name change, a bill of significant historical importance for our community. This name change will significantly bolster our efforts to preserve our rich heritage while fostering sustainable development and tourism. This opportunity is particularly timely as we approach our celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Battles of Saratoga in 2027; these battles played a crucial role in shaping our nation's history and continue to be a source of pride and education. This name change ensures that future generations can fully appreciate the birthplace of American independence, a heritage we can all be proud of," said Sean Kelleher, Historian for the Town of Saratoga and Saratoga 250th Commissioner.
"On behalf of Discover Saratoga, I am thrilled about the idea of renaming our historic site Saratoga National Battlefield Park. This change not only honors the profound historical significance of the area but also amplifies its recognition on a national level. We anticipate this will draw even more visitors to experience the rich heritage and natural beauty of Saratoga County. This new designation underscores our commitment to preserving and promoting our storied past while fostering economic growth and tourism for our community," said Discover Saratoga President Darryl Leggieri.
On June 18, 2024, the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted a resolution requesting Congress and the National Park Service to rename the Saratoga National Historical Park to the Saratoga National Battlefield Park.
The site was originally named the Saratoga Battlefield Park, and that name was kept when it was designated as a New York State historical site in 1927. However, when it became a national park in 1938, the word ‘battlefield’ was dropped from its name.
Read the full text of the bill here.
In May 2024, Congresswoman Stefanik celebrated the completion of improvements along the battlefield tour road at Saratoga National Historical Park made possible by funds awarded through the Great American Outdoors Act, legislation that Stefanik supported. That same month, Stefanik urged the New York State 250th Commemoration Commission to establish a Battlefield Heritage Trail in New York State as part of their efforts to commemorate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding.
As Co-Chair of the Congressional Battlefield Caucus, Stefanik has been a consistent champion for the preservation of our many battlefields and historic sites. In March 2023, Stefanik was awarded the National Preservation Leadership Award from the American Battlefield Trust for her leadership on battlefield preservation.
