Saratoga Co. looks to change historical park name

BALLSTON SPA, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- The Saratoga County Board of Supervisors is asking National Park Services for a name change from Saratoga National Historical Park to Saratoga National Battlefield Park. On Tuesday, the board voted unanimously to rename the park to commemorate the Battles of Saratoga.

The park was first named Saratoga Battlefield Park until it was designated a historical site in 1927 for securing American independence during the American Revolution. Battlefield was dropped from the park's name in 1938 when it became a national park.

The name change request comes in time for the Battle of Saratoga's 250th anniversary in 2027. Board members said the change would reflect the park's historical significance and emphasize the site's military affiliation.

Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Chairman Phil Barrett of Clifton Park said the board is thankful for the longstanding relationship between National Park Services and Saratoga. "We request the National Historical Park return to its original name, which distinguishes the park as a historical battlefield and provides a unique identifier to inform tourists of the significance of the park to American independence," he said.