U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., and U.S. Representative Buddy Carter, R-Ga.-01, today announced they have reintroduced legislation in both the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives to expand and protect Fort Frederica National Monument located on St. Simons Island, Ga.
“As one of Georgia’s oldest landmarks and archaeological sites, it’s important that we protect Fort Frederica,” said Isakson. “The area is already a tourist destination, and with Fort Frederica’s expansion, visitors would be afforded a better firsthand experience and understanding of our history and founding by General James Oglethorpe. I’m glad to be one of many federal, state and community leaders who support these efforts to preserve and protect this historic landmark.”
“I am pleased to again introduce this legislation with Senator Isakson to preserve the history and legacy of our area for Georgians and visitors for many generations to come,” Carter said. “This legislation is critical to ensure the Park Service is able to protect this important historical landmark for the future.”
The Fort Frederica National Monument Boundary Expansion Act would increase the maximum number of acres that may be included in the monument from 250 acres to 305 acres.
Original cosponsors of the legislation also include Reps. Doug Collins, R-Ga.-09, Drew Ferguson, R-Ga.-03, and John Lewis, D-Ga.-05.
Due to current statutory limits, legislation is required to expand the authorized boundary and remove the 250-acre ceiling established by Congress in 1958. Isakson and Carter’s bill would also allow the National Park Service to acquire, by donation or purchase, the land and interests within the monument only from those willing to sell or donate additional land for inclusion.
The areas being assessed by the National Park Service for inclusion in the Fort Frederica National Monument are visible from the park, including the fort, King’s magazine, tabby ruins of soldiers’ barracks and other trails. The areas were once used by the British Town of Frederica founded in 1736 by General James Edward Oglethorpe. Based on archival data and a reconnaissance study, there is a high potential that the remains of a colonial cannon battery, Point Battery, exists within the southern area. The northern area is believed to have been used as a campground for troops in 1743.
Isakson and Carter previously introduced this legislation in the 114th and 115th sessions of Congress.