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Editorial
The Blade (Toledo, OH)
04-22-99
For years, the Battle of Fallen Timbers and the site upon which it was fought have received too little recognition. There has been a modest marker commemorating the event, but it has since been proven to be in the wrong place.
They were the battle and the battlefield that got no respect.
Belatedly, but nonetheless warmly welcomed, that situation is changing. Today, Sen. Mike DeWine and Maumee Mayor Steve Pauken are scheduled to testify before a Senate subcommittee on a bill that would give Fallen Timbers designation as a National Historic Site.
Senator DeWine, the bill's sponsor, has tried twice before to move similar legislation without success. The third time could be a charm for the bill this year. Mr. DeWine's bill would create a National Historic Site encompassing the battlefield site, battle marker, and Fort Miamis in Maumee. It also would involve the National Park Service in the project through its provision of technical assistance, site maintenance, and provision of an interpretive center.
The success of this bill is imperative if the rich history of northwest Ohio is to receive appropriate attention. The significance of the site should be reason enough for that to happen, but Washington has in the past been hesitant to act because of uncertainty about the future use of the land.
The rewards for this region of National Historic Site status are enormous. The creation of a history trail incorporating several regional locations of importance could attract history buffs and tourists alike. And it would be an opportunity to teach ourselves and our children about the pivotal place of this area in American history.
Mayor Pauken's scheduled appearance before the subcommittee might not have come about were it not for the past dedication and energy of local activists to protect the battlefield. To them goes some of the credit, too.
We hope Mr. Pauken's testimony will convince lawmakers of the need to grant historic status to the Fallen Timbers site.
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