PORTLAND - The Ohio Historical Society (OHS) is requesting letters of support to U.S. Rep. Charlie Wilson for funding the Buffington Island and State Memorial Planning and Site Improvement Project.

The project's total cost is estimated to be $629,000, with OHS requesting 50 percent of the project's cost, $314,500, through the office of Wilson, a first term Democrat from Bridgeport.

“Letters of support to Congressman Wilson are essential so that he knows that the Buffington Island project is important to Meigs County,” George Kane, director of facilities management for the OHS said. “We believe this project is worthy of local support and federal funding.”

Kane added financial decisions for fiscal year 2008 are being made now and the letter should be sent as soon as possible. Letters of support for the project from local organizations, government officials and residents can be sent to The Honorable Charlie Wilson, 258 Front St., Marietta, Ohio 45750.

If possible, Kane also requests copies of the letters be sent to his office to him at 1982 Velma Ave., Columbus, Ohio 43211-2497.

Kane believes local letters of support will make the difference in determining whether this request is seriously considered or not.

The OHS's request for funds are sought for completion of a National Register of Historic Places district nomination, to develop a comprehensive plan for an expanded park, for the construction of an outdoor exhibit kiosk to interpret the battle, for site improvements, and for land acquisition.

According to the OHS, the project's estimated cost breaks down as follows: Battlefield national register district nomination, $25,000; park planning $50,000; outdoor exhibit kiosk, $200,000; site improvements, $100,000; building improvements, $20,000; land acquisition, $150,000; architectural and engineering services, $27,000; contingency, $57,000.

According to the OHS, the National Register of Historic Places district nomination is critical for properly identifying the extent of the battlefield, with a resultant comprehensive development plan for the battle commemoration site.

Funds will also be utilized to expand the memorial's boundaries (preserving more of the battle site), for exhibit development to promote visitors' understanding of the significance of the battle, and for re-roofing a portion of the adjacent Portland Community Center and Battlefield Museum to enhance visitors' experience at the site and within the area.

The existing battle commemoration site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the State Historic Preservation Office determined that the entire battlefield was eligible for the national register.

It's hoped the development of the battlefield will increase cultural tourism.