The House of Representatives is scheduled to vote on a bill by Congressman Scott DesJarlais to study the feasibility of placing the James K. Polk Home in Columbia, Tn., under National Park Service (NPS) protection.
He said, "The Interior Department study would be a major step towards supporting the local charity that maintains the property, where the 11th U.S.
President lived as a young man while beginning his political career. It is his only surviving private residence, which receives some state assistance.
"However, NPS support would help its caretakers improve the property, including a museum, and more Americans to enjoy Tennessee history and downtown Columbia, according to the James K. Polk Memorial Association, the charity."
Reps. DesJarlais and Marsha Blackburn represent the area in Congress.
In the House, Rep. Blackburn is a co-sponsor of the James K. Polk Presidential Home Study Act. Senator Lamar Alexander sponsored companion legislation in the Senate. The House will likely approve its version on Monday under special rules to hasten passage, it was stated.
The Memorial Association and Columbia city leaders requested Rep. DesJarlais' attention to the issue, he said.
He said he has worked on the issue for several years. “We’re all so proud of our rich Tennessee history and want future generations to share our enthusiasm for President Polk and great Tennesseans who shaped the United States with hard work, patriotism and perseverance. I am certain Columbia’s future will be as impressive as the city’s past."