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 station is the official home of the Pennsylvania Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission.
“In the aftermath of the Battle of Gettysburg, President Abraham Lincoln was invited by prominent local attorney David Wills to say “a few appropriate remarks” at the dedication of the Soldiers National Cemetery,” said Congressman Platts. “That 272 word speech is heralded as one of the greatest in history and marks a pivotal turning point in American history. The preservation of the Lincoln Train Station will help inspire future generations to better appreciate the significance of the Gettysburg Campaign, the Civil War and the bravery of the soldiers who, in President Lincoln's words, "gave the last full measure of devotion."
The Lincoln Train Station has been operated for the past two years by the National Trust for Historic Gettysburg and is owned by the Borough of Gettysburg – both of which approached Gettysburg National Military Park 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 and orientation center.
Congressman Platts’ legislation also expands the boundaries of GNMP to include 45 acres of donated land along Plum Run in Cumberland Township. The property in question abuts land already owned by the National Park Service. Although both properties in question involve willing transactions, Congressman Platts’ legislation specifically forbids the use of eminent domain for acquisition of either property.
The preservation of the Lincoln Train Station joins the renovations of the Majestic Theatre and the David Wills House as key tenets of a major economic and cultural revitalization in Gettysburg. These efforts, combined with existing partnerships between the National Park Service, Gettysburg Borough and the local business community, have the potential to expand Gettysburg's already strong tourism and commercial market to create a premiere destination for visitors nationwide.
Congressman Platts’ legislation will be referred to the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources for consideration. Congressman Platts also recently sponsored H. Res. 736, legislation which encouraged citizens to read the Gettysburg Address on November 19, also known as “Dedication Day.” That resolution passed by the U.S. House of Representatives on November 3, 2009.
