Despite all predictions to the contrary, the bill to approve a Federal takeover of the property advanced through Congress.
Once past the Senate with a vote of 50 to 25, President Ronald Reagan signed the measure into law on November 10, 1988. The land immediately became part of Manassas National Battlefield Park, with the landowners to receive appropriate compensation later.
"Til" Hazel's proclamation that the taking would be an expensive one proved accurate. This 548 acres would eventually cost the Federal government over $130 million.
