New Jersey Statutes Title 18A. Education 18A § 73-21

(a) The public pride in the history of New Jersey generated by temporary historical commissions, especially the civil war centennial commission and the tercentenary commission has proved to be effective in providing a direct link and close association between the state government and New Jersey citizens of all ages, occupations and social backgrounds which warrants continuation by a permanent agency to promote the activities of various state agencies, educational institutions, historic, civic and patriotic societies and libraries concerned with New Jersey history; and

(b) Important research and publishing ventures have recently been launched under state auspices and great public interest in historic sites has been inspired by the work of the historic sites section of the department of conservation and economic development and there is foreseen a need for continued promotion of the state's rich historical heritage through additional commemorative projects and publications; and

(c) Recently enacted legislation (HR 6237) provides generous federal grants for qualified state historical agencies with qualified publication programs; and

(d) There is foreseen a growing commitment to the teaching and interpretation of New Jersey history in the schools; and

(e) It is the obligation of state government to inspire pride of citizenship in New Jersey, one of the 13 original states.