Yoder Officially Introduces Quindaro National Historic Landmark Bill in U.S. House

This week, Representative Kevin Yoder (R-KS) introduced the Quindaro Townsite National Historic Landmark Act. Representative Emanuel Cleaver II (D-MO) joins Congressman Yoder as an original co-sponsor of this legislation. Quindaro is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Third District of Kansas, and National Historic Landmark status will help elevate and preserve this townsite in a way that is consistent with its historical and cultural importance. Representative Yoder issued the following statement with the announcement:

"The town of Quindaro played a crucial role in the establishment of Kansas as a free state, and during the Bleeding Kansas conflict it served as a prominent example of how people from many different backgrounds can come together to make a difference. Unfortunately, the historic site of this town has never received the attention and preservation that it deserves. However, a small group of local stakeholders have worked hard to protect Quindaro and keep its stories alive. I am proud to join them in their efforts by introducing federal legislation to designate the Quindaro Townsite as a National Historic Landmark. This designation will be a huge step forward for the site and for the community around it. I am confident that the city, our state, and the country as a whole can learn from the stories of Quindaro, and National Historic Landmark status will help make that possible."

The town of Quindaro was founded in 1857 as a safe haven for anti-slavery activists and an important stop on the Underground Railroad. Today, the site of the town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. National Historic Landmark status is a much rarer and more prestigious designation, and it would foster more investment in and preservation of the Quindaro Townsite. Representative Yoder's bill, H.R. 5613 the Quindaro Townsite National Historic Landmark Act, would make Quindaro the third National Historic Landmark in the Third District, in addition to the Shawnee Methodist Mission in Fairway and the Wyandotte National Burying Ground in Kansas City, KS.

Last Friday, Congressman Yoder unveiled the bipartisan legislation at the Quindaro Symposium in Kansas City, KS. H.R. 5613 has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources for consideration.

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