Quindaro Townsite National Historic Landmark Act Receives Hearing in Natural Resources Committee

Today, the Quindaro Townsite National Historic Landmark Act, introduced by U.S. Representatives Sharice Davids (D-KS), Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), and Derek Schmidt (R-KS), received a hearing in the House Committee on Natural Resources. The bipartisan legislation would designate the Quindaro Townsite in Kansas City, Kansas, as a National Historic Landmark. The site served as a critical entry point for anti-slavery settlers and a sanctuary for those escaping bondage via the Underground Railroad prior to and during the U.S. Civil War.

"This national landmark designation for Quindaro is long overdue. From its role on the Underground Railroad to its deep roots with the Wyandot Nation, Quindaro represents a crucial chapter of the Kansas City story. Today’s hearing gets our bill one step closer to cutting through administrative delays and making sure this history is preserved for our kids and grandkids," said Rep. Sharice Davids.

“The history of the Quindaro Townsite is an important piece of the story of Kansas City that must be told for generations to come. I’m pleased that our bipartisan legislation to designate Quindaro as a National Historic Landmark was heard in the Natural Resources Committee, and following this important step in the legislative process, I look forward to continuing our push to ensure it becomes law," said Congressman Cleaver.

“Quindaro holds an important place in the history of Kansas and our nation. Founded during the turbulent days of Bleeding Kansas, it became a place of hope and refuge for those fighting for freedom and seeking a better future. This hearing is an important step toward ensuring Quindaro’s legacy is properly preserved and recognized for generations to come. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort with Representatives Cleaver and Davids, and I look forward to working with the committee to advance this legislation,” said Rep. Schmidt.

National Historic Landmarks are designated through the National Park Service System Advisory Board or an official act of Congress. Last May, the National Historic Landmarks Committee unanimously recommended Quindaro Townsite for designation as a National Historic Landmark, however the administrative process has since stalled. This bill would bypass the administrative process and designate the site by congressional action.

Representatives Davids and Cleaver submitted a letter to the House Committee on Natural Resources in support of the bipartisan legislation. The official letter is available here.

The official text of the Quindaro Townsite National Historic Landmark Act is available here.