Congressman Norman Introduces House Companion to Camden National Battlefield Park Study Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Ralph Norman introduced H.R. 5219, the Camden National Battlefield Park Study Act, companion legislation to a bill originally introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham and Tim Scott of South Carolina.

This bicameral effort directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a special resource study on the Camden Battlefield area, including the site of the pivotal 1780 Revolutionary War battle and Historic Camden, to determine the suitability of establishing it as a unit of the National Park System.

"The Battle of Camden stands as one of the most significant Revolutionary War battles fought in the South," said Congressman Norman. "Preserving this history and telling the story of the patriots who fought here is critical, not only for South Carolina, but for the entire nation. This bill will help ensure that future generations understand Camden's role in securing America's independence."

The proposed study will:

• Evaluate the national significance of the Camden Battlefield and surrounding historic sites,
• Assess the feasibility of designating the site as Camden National Battlefield Park within the National Park System,
• Explore methods for protection, interpretation, and management of the area, including local partnership models, and
• Provide cost estimates for any federal development, operations, and maintenance.

"The Battle of Camden was an important moment in the fight for our nation's independence, and this historic battlefield deserves federal recognition and protection," said Senator Tim Scott (R-SC). "This bill will help ensure that future generations can learn about and honor the sacrifices made on South Carolina's soil for the freedom of all Americans."

Background

The Battle of Camden, fought on August 16, 1780, was one of the largest battles of the Revolutionary War. Though a tactical defeat for the Continental Army, it marked a turning point in the Southern campaign, inspiring further resistance that ultimately led to American victory at Yorktown. Historic Camden today preserves portions of this important battlefield, but broader recognition and preservation efforts are necessary to protect it for future generations.