NH Delegation Introduces Legislation to Redesignate the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site

(Washington, DC) — U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Congressmembers Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) today introduced legislation to redesignate the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site as a “National Historical Park” to more appropriately reflect the expansion and utilization of the grounds. Authorized by Congress in 1964, the site preserves the home and artwork of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, the foremost American sculptor of the late 19th century. During his career, Saint-Gaudens created over 150 works of art, many of them commemorating heroes of the Civil War, including the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial in Boston and the Standing and Seated Abraham Lincoln monuments in Chicago.

“Saint-Gaudens offers so much to the Cornish community, to Granite Staters and to visitors alike. Changing its designation to ‘National Historic Park,’ will help recognize its broader purpose,” said Shaheen. “This beautiful site connects artists and performing arts to historic architecture, American art, landscapes and trails. It’s a true New Hampshire treasure, and I will work to ensure Congress passes our legislation that celebrates Saint-Gaudens’ enduring legacy.”

“The beautiful home, studio, and gardens of Augustus Saint-Gaudens – with its beloved nature trails and works of art – play an important role in the local economy and deserve the recognition and distinction that come with the title of a National Historic Park,” said Hassan.

“Saint-Gaudens plays a critical role in the local economy and serves as an important tourist attraction for thousands of annual visitors to the Upper Valley,” said Kuster. “To better reflect the expansive nature of the site, our legislation will redesignate Saint-Gaudens as a National Historical Park to more accurately capture all of the activities and cultural exhibitions that are offered. I am proud to sponsor this straightforward piece of legislation which successfully passed the House last Congress with no opposition. ”

“The Saint-Gaudens estate is a true New Hampshire gem and a point of pride for so many Granite Staters,” said Pappas. “The work of sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens and the park's natural surroundings are cherished by locals and visitors alike. This redesignation is fitting to capture the essence of one of our state's greatest historical and cultural landmarks."

Last Congress, Shaheen, Hassan and Kuster introduced legislation to redesignate the site as a National Historical Park to bolster its visibility in the Cornish community and across New Hampshire. In the past decade, the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site has expanded to include multiple historic buildings, a vast collection of American art, a variety of arts-related activities, landscapes and trails.

The bill text is available here for the Senate and here for the House of Representatives.

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