Letter to the Hon. P. Daniel Smith, Acting Director of the National Parks Service - At Historic Grant Cottage, Site Where Legendary Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant Were Completed, Schumer Launches Major Push to Designate Saratoga Gem as A National Historic Landmark; Official Designation Would Be a Boon to Capital Region Tourism Economy

Letter

Dear Acting Director Smith,

I write in support of designating Grant Cottage, located in Wilton, New York as a National Historic Landmark. This prestigious designation would not only help to further protect the historical integrity of Grant Cottage and the surrounding Adirondack Mountains, but most importantly, would help draw much deserved attention to the historical significance of this property for generations to come.

On June 16, 1885, nearing the end of his life, President Ulysses S. Grant arrived at Joseph W. Drexel's cottage to complete one of the greatest collection of personal memoirs in United States history. Grant's longtime friend, Mark Twain, visited the cottage to discuss the progress of the book and ultimately agreed to publish the Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant. The book, which focuses on Grant's legendary military career, is considered a classic of American literature. Surrounded by family, friends, and physicians, President Grant passed away from throat cancer in the cottage on July 23, 1885, just four days after his final proofread of his memoirs.

Known as the final residence of Ulysses S. Grant, the Grant Cottage continues to stand as an important historical and literary site. Located a few miles from Saratoga Springs, New York, visitors are transported back to 1885 at Grant Cottage. The furnishings of the cottage remain the same as they did during Grant's six-week stay. In addition, the intricate floral arrangements from Grant"s funeral are still on display. Steps away from the cottage, visitors can take in the breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley, the Adirondacks, the Green Mountains of Vermont, and the Catskills, just as Grant did in 1885.

I urge you to designate Grant Cottage as a National Historic Landmark to uphold the integrity of this important historical site, while also ensuring that the Grant Cottage remains an important tie to America's history for generations to come. I look forward to working with you on this important issue.

Sincerely,

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