Legislation1916
National Park Service Established
President Woodrow Wilson signed the National Park Service Organic Act, creating the National Park Service within the Department of the Interior. The act charged the agency with preserving natural and historic sites "for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations."
Why It Matters
The National Park Service embodies the democratic principle that America's natural wonders and historic sites belong to all citizens, preserving the nation's heritage as a public trust.