Monmouth Times

Washington, DC (July 13, 2023) - On July 13, the National Park Service awarded $10 million in the second round of funding from the Semiquincentennial Grant Program commemorating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. These grants include $750,000 for preservation of the Old Barracks Museum in Trenton, NJ. Created by Congress in 2020 and funded through the Historic Preservation Fund, this round of grants will support 20 cultural resource preservation projects across 14 states.  

“As a member of the Appropriations Committee and a Commissioner on the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission I’m proud to have played a role in securing this funding,” said Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12). “Trenton played a vital yet often overlooked role in the American Revolution and the founding of America. The Old Barracks Museum has helped to tell the story of America and will play a key role in our nation’s 250th anniversary celebration. As we approach the semiquincentennial, I look forward to advocating for continued federal investments in heritage sites in New Jersey and across the country to ensure the complete and accurate telling of the story of our nation’s history.”

"I'm delighted to learn that The Old Barracks Museum will be receiving this grant - the work planned will go a long way to prepare this National Historic Landmark to be visitor ready for the commemoration of America's 250th anniversary,” said Carrie Fellows, Executive Director of Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area. “Located in the heart of downtown Trenton, The Old Barracks serves one of the most diverse audiences in the state and does a stellar job interpreting the history of the Battles of Trenton and the Ten Crucial Days campaign."

“The Semiquincentennial is an opportunity for the nation to recognize and reflect on the diverse cultures, events, and places that have helped shape our country,” said National Park Service Director Chuck Sams. “Through the Semiquincentennial Grant Program, the National Park Service is supporting projects that showcase the many places and stories that contributed to the evolution of the American experience.”  

In April, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland accepted an invitation by Rep. Watson Coleman to visit the Old Barracks and discuss the importance of preserving historical heritage sites across New Jersey. As a member of the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission. Congresswoman Watson Coleman is working to prepare the nation for the commemoration of the 250th Anniversary milestone with national programs and signature projects.

Original source can be found here