To borrow words from historian Richard Brookhiser, the Falls represent “a seminal American site, the Bethlehem of Capitalism, ground zero of modern America.” Alexander Hamilton was the man whose vision ultimately harnessed the power of the Falls and diversified America’s economy. Paterson’s unique combination of rich historical significance and incredible natural splendor distinguish it from any other national park and make it worthy of being designated as such. The case I made in Washington with Senators Frank Lautenberg and Robert Menendez was simple. Starting in 1997 I was able to really get my hands dirty fighting to preserve Paterson’s history in the sacred national park system. Twenty years after President Ford’s visit, I won a seat in Congress. His words remained with me as I fought to preserve the Falls in the New Jersey General Assembly and later as the Mayor of Paterson. With water thundering down from a precipice 77 feet above us, President Ford described the Falls as, “a symbol of the industrial might which helps make America the mot powerful nation in the world.” It was a sight that I am pleased President Ford was able to behold. All were present as sheets of rain swelled the Passaic River demonstrating the Falls’ incredible power. Pat Kramer was my mayor, Bob Roe my Congressman and Brendan Byrne my Governor. I served as master of ceremonies that day. It was Jand President Ford spoke forcefully of the Falls’ inextricable connection to America’s economic strength. With a native Patersonian, Bill Simon, serving as his Treasury Secretary President Ford fully understood the history of America’s industrial economy and recognized Paterson as its birthplace. President Gerald Ford from the great manufacturing state of Michigan visited the Falls just weeks before America celebrated its bicentennial. Thirty three years ago on a rainy afternoon in Paterson my fight to establish this national park was inspired by the words of another president. It was a special day, but not the first I spent with an American president committed to preserving Paterson’s rich history. On Monday I had the distinct honor of joining President Barack Obama at the White House for a ceremony that established a new national park at the Great Falls, consecrating Paterson’s transformative role in American history.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |