Why Churchill's Legacy Matters in Missouri

In Missouri, there's a push to honor Winston Churchill's legacy. A bill was introduced to make the America's National Churchill Museum a National Historic Landmark. This isn't just about preserving a building; it's about recognizing the impact of one of history's most influential leaders.

Location and Significance

The museum is located in Fulton, Missouri, at Westminster College. This is where Churchill gave his famous "Iron Curtain" speech in 1946. The bill defines key terms like "City," "College," and "Landmark" to make sure everyone understands what's being discussed.

Current Status and Future Goals

The museum, along with the Winston Churchill Memorial, is already on the National Register of Historic Places. The bill wants to take this a step further by designating it as a National Historic Landmark. This means it will be officially recognized as a place of national significance.

Cooperative Agreements

The bill also talks about cooperative agreements. This means the government can work with public or private groups to protect the historic resources at the landmark. They can also provide educational programs for the public. The goal is to make sure the museum is well-maintained and accessible to everyone.

Property Ownership and Management

One important thing to note is that this designation won't stop property owners from doing what they need to with their property. It also won't change how the landmark is currently managed. The state, city, and college will still be in charge of running the museum.

Special Resource Study

The bill also calls for a special resource study. This study will look at the national significance of the landmark. It will also consider if it's suitable and feasible to make it part of the National Park System. The study will look at different options for preserving and interpreting the landmark.

Consultation and Reporting

The Secretary of the Interior will conduct this study and consult with various groups, including the state, city, and college. They will also consult with private and nonprofit organizations. The study will take into account the costs of any federal acquisition, development, interpretation, operation, and maintenance.

Within three years of starting the study, the Secretary will submit a report to Congress. This report will describe the results of the study and any conclusions and recommendations.

Conclusion

This bill is a big deal for Missouri and for anyone interested in history. It's about preserving a piece of history that has national significance. It's about making sure future generations can learn about Winston Churchill and his impact on the world.