National Park Celebrates 15th Anniversary. Senator Kennedy, Rep. Frank Honored

Mass. Congressman Barney Frank and the late Senator Edward Kennedy were honored Saturday marking the 15th anniversary of the Whaling National Historic Park in New Bedford. Speakers praised Senator Kennedy for his long time love of New Bedford, and the work he and Barney Frank did to make the National Park happen. Kennedy's widow, Victoria Reggie Kennedy said her husband found ways to partner with key republicans like Bob Dole, to get the job done.

Frank said bringing a National Park to New Bedford took a lot of political skill, and no one was better at it than Senator Kennedy. He also mentioned former Republican Congressman Peter Blute as someone who helped the project along. Frank thanked the people of New Bedford for their spirit and support......

Both Frank and Victoria Reggie Kennedy were presented with plaques mounted on wood from the Corson Building. It was Frank and Senator Kennedy who securred federal funds for the rehab of that fire damaged building. It is now the Corson Maritime Education Center, a focal point in the National Park.