Establishment of Fort Monroe National Historical Park

(a) In general There is established the Fort Monroe National Historical Park in the Commonwealth to preserve the historic, natural, and recreational resources of Fort Monroe and interpret for the benefit of present and future generations— (1) Old Point Comfort, its relationship to the voyages of Captain John Smith, its location as the first entry place of captive Africans into English North America, its use for successive fortifications, and its role in the War of 1812; (2) the development and use of Fort Monroe as a coastal defense facility and artillery training center, including its military and community life; (3) the fort’s role in the Civil War, including the 1861 Contraband Decision providing a pathway to freedom for those escaping enslavement during that war, and the formation and service of United States Colored Troop units stationed at Fort Monroe; (4) persons and events associated with the fort, which contributed to its and the Nation’s history, and their relevance to modern society; and (5) the natural and recreational resource values associated with Fort Monroe. (b) Abolishment of national monument The Fort Monroe National Monument, established by Presidential Proclamation 8750 of November 1, 2011 (54 U.S.C. 320301 note), is abolished and all land or interests in land therein are incorporated into, and shall be considered to be part of, the Historical Park. (c) Availability of funds Any unobligated funds available for purposes of the Fort Monroe National Monument shall be available for purposes of the Historical Park. (d) References Any reference in a law, regulation, document, record, map, or other paper of the United States to Fort Monroe National Monument shall be deemed to be a reference to Fort Monroe National Historical Park.