John Joseph Moakley: “H.R. 2778 would direct the National Park Service to study the Taunton River in Massachusetts to determine if it should…”

“H.R. 2778 would direct the National Park Service to study the Taunton River in Massachusetts to determine if it should be added to the Wild and Scenic Rivers System. The 70-mile river is threatened by an alarming rate of residential and commercial development. If the river meets the necessary federal requirements and is added to the system, then its flow could not be hindered or diverted and local regional planners would be able to receive federal assistance to help manage the river. The Taunton River is of tremendous historical and ecological value to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and also the nation. In the early 1600's, the Taunton River was the first river the Pilgrims encountered as they moved inland, and they used the river as a meeting spot with the Native Americans. Chief Massasoit of the Wompanoag tribe befriended the Pilgrims, who were ill-prepared for New England's harsh winters. Without the help of the Native Americans, the early settlers would have perished. As a result of the goodwill of the local Native Americans, the Pilgrims dedicated a day in celebration of the harvest and their good fortune. This day is celebrated throughout the country today and is better known as our national holiday of Thanksgiving.”