Bill Summary
The resolution recognizes the upcoming 245th anniversary of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse, which took place on March 15, 1781, during the Revolutionary War. It highlights the significance of the battle, noting that it was a pivotal engagement in the Southern Theater involving American forces led by Major General Nathanael Greene and British forces under Lieutenant General Charles Cornwallis. The battle, while a technical victory for the British, resulted in significant troop losses and ultimately contributed to their defeat in the war.
The resolution commemorates the bravery and sacrifices of the soldiers involved, particularly the North Carolina militiamen, and acknowledges the battle's impact on subsequent military campaigns. To honor this historical event, the resolution encourages U.S. citizens to visit the Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, which was established by Congress in 1917 to preserve the site and educate the public about this critical moment in American history, especially in the context of the 250th anniversary of American independence in 2026.
Possible Impacts
Here are three examples of how the legislation recognizing the 245th anniversary of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse could affect people:
1. **Increased Tourism and Economic Impact**: The resolution encourages U.S. citizens to visit the Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. This could lead to an influx of tourists, which would benefit local businesses, such as hotels, restaurants, and shops. The economic boost from tourism can help support the local economy and create jobs in the area.
2. **Educational Opportunities**: The resolution highlights the historical significance of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse. By encouraging visits to the military park, it promotes educational opportunities for citizens, particularly students and history enthusiasts. Engaging with this part of American history can enhance understanding of the Revolutionary War and the sacrifices made for independence.
3. **Community Engagement and Commemoration**: The recognition of the anniversary can foster a sense of community pride and engagement, especially among local residents of Guilford County. It may encourage local events, historical reenactments, and commemorative activities that bring people together to honor the legacy of those who fought in the battle, thus strengthening community bonds and heritage.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Res. 1111 Introduced in House (IH)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
2d Session
H. RES. 1111
Recognizing the 245th anniversary of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse
and encouraging all United States citizens to visit the Guilford
Courthouse National Military Park in Guilford County, North Carolina.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
March 12, 2026
Mr. McDowell (for himself, Mr. Hudson, and Ms. Foxx) submitted the
following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Natural
Resources
_______________________________________________________________________
RESOLUTION
Recognizing the 245th anniversary of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse
and encouraging all United States citizens to visit the Guilford
Courthouse National Military Park in Guilford County, North Carolina.
Whereas, on March 15, 1781, during the Revolutionary War, American forces under
the command of Major General Nathanael Greene clashed with British
forces under Lieutenant General Charles Cornwallis at the Battle of
Guilford Courthouse in Guilford County, North Carolina;
Whereas the Battle of Guilford Courthouse was one of the largest engagements in
the Southern Theater of the Revolutionary War, involving roughly 4,500
American and 2,100 British troops and militia;
Whereas the first line of the American force was comprised primarily of North
Carolina militiamen;
Whereas, during the hours-long battle, the British army took the field at great
cost while General Greene skillfully kept his army intact and organized
an orderly withdraw;
Whereas the battle was a pyrrhic victory for the British, who lost a quarter of
their force in a single day;
Whereas General Cornwallis failed in his goal of capturing and destroying
General Greene's army;
Whereas, after the Battle of Guilford Courthouse, General Greene was able to
launch a campaign to unravel British control over the Carolinas;
Whereas, after the Battle of Guilford Courthouse, General Cornwallis was forced
to seek resupply and reinforcements, first in Wilmington, North
Carolina, then in Yorktown, Virginia, where he was ultimately trapped
and forced to surrender by General George Washington;
Whereas the Battle of Guilford Courthouse was a significant moment in the
direction of the Revolutionary War, made possible by the bravery and
sacrifice of the American and North Carolinian troops and militiamen who
fought there;
Whereas, in 1917, Congress provided for the establishment of the Guilford
Courthouse National Military Park to preserve the historic battlefield
and allow United States citizens to see this history firsthand;
Whereas the Guilford Courthouse National Military Park is still open to this
day, and presents a great opportunity for United States citizens
interested in learning more about our country's history during the 250th
anniversary of our independence; and
Whereas March 15, 2026, marks the 245th anniversary of the Battle of Guilford
Courthouse: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the House of Representatives--
(1) recognizes the 245th anniversary of the Battle of
Guilford Courthouse in Guilford County, North Carolina;
(2) honors the bravery and sacrifice of the American and
North Carolinian patriots who fought and died at the Battle of
Guilford Courthouse;
(3) recognizes the significant role that the Battle of
Guilford Courthouse played in our country's successful fight
for independence; and
(4) encourages all United States citizens to visit Guilford
County, North Carolina, and tour the Guilford Courthouse
National Military Park to celebrate the 250th anniversary of
our independence.
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