National Register Listing

Park Headquarters, Lassen Volcanic National Park

a.k.a. Administration Building; Building No. 1

Off CA 36, Mineral, CA
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Conservation

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1978.
  A brief timeline of the history of the National Parks

  • 1872: Yellowstone National Park is established as the first national park in the United States and widely recognized as the first national park in the world.

  • 1890: Yosemite National Park is established in California, protecting its iconic landscapes and natural wonders.

  • 1916: The National Park Service (NPS) is created as a federal agency responsible for managing and preserving national parks. Stephen Mather becomes the first director of the NPS.

  • 1919: Grand Canyon National Park is established in Arizona, safeguarding its immense and awe-inspiring canyon.

  • 1926: Great Smoky Mountains National Park is established, becoming the most visited national park in the United States.

  • 1933: President Franklin D. Roosevelt establishes the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) as part of his New Deal program. The CCC plays a crucial role in the development and conservation of national parks, employing thousands of young men in projects such as trail construction, reforestation, and infrastructure improvements.

  • 1964: The Wilderness Act is passed, protecting designated wilderness areas within national parks and other public lands, ensuring their preservation in their natural state.

  • 1970: The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is signed into law, mandating environmental impact assessments for federal projects, including those within national parks.

  • 1980: The Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act is passed, expanding the national park system and adding significant areas of land in Alaska, including the establishment of Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve.

  • 2009: President Barack Obama signs the Omnibus Public Land Management Act into law, designating several new national parks and expanding existing ones, such as Joshua Tree National Park and Zion National Park.

  • Present: The U.S. National Park system has grown to include over 60 designated national parks, as well as national monuments, preserves, seashores, and historic sites. These protected areas attract millions of visitors each year and serve as vital conservation areas for biodiversity, natural wonders, cultural heritage, and outdoor recreation.

The establishment and continued expansion of the U.S. National Parks reflect a commitment to preserving and sharing the country's unique natural and cultural treasures for future generations.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

architecture conservation
California was the site of the nation's first successful oil well in 1892. The well was drilled in the city of Los Angeles and produced about 25 barrels of oil a day. Today, California remains a major oil-producing state.
California random facts
Tehama County, located in northern California, has a rich and diverse history. Originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Wintun and Maidu, the area was later explored by Spanish explorers in the 18th century. In 1844, Mexican land grant recipient Jonathan D. Stevenson received a large tract of land in the region, which included present-day Tehama County. However, it wasn't until the California Gold Rush in the mid-19th century that the area began to see significant settlement.

The discovery of gold in the Sacramento River and its tributaries drew a wave of prospectors to the region, including Tehama County. Mining camps sprang up, but within a few years, many of these gave way to more permanent settlements as gold supplies dwindled. In 1856, Tehama County was officially recognized as a county, named after the Tehama land grant.

During the late 1800s, Tehama County experienced growth and development in various sectors. Agriculture became particularly important, with the fertile soil and mild climate supporting the cultivation of crops such as wheat, barley, and fruits. Transportation also played a crucial role, as railroads connected Tehama County with other parts of California, facilitating the movement of goods and people.

Throughout the 20th century, Tehama County continued to be primarily agricultural, with ranching and farming being the main industries. In more recent times, tourism and outdoor recreation have also become significant contributors to the county's economy. Today, Tehama County offers a unique blend of historical charm and natural beauty, with attractions like Lassen Volcanic National Park, the Sacramento River, and numerous vineyards and wineries drawing visitors from far and wide.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Tehama County, California.

  • Tehama County was established in 1856
  • In 1857, the county seat was officially designated as Tehama
  • During the late 1800s, the county experienced a significant increase in population due to mining and agriculture
  • In 1915, Lassen Volcanic National Park was established, partially extending into Tehama County
  • In the early 20th century, the county's economy shifted towards lumber and timber industries
  • During World War II, Tehama County housed an internment camp for Japanese-Americans
  • In recent times, the county has focused on promoting tourism and outdoor recreation