Historical Marker

Women's Rights National Park

Historical marker location:
Seneca Falls, New York
( Marker is at the intersection of Fall Street (New York State Route 414) and Mynderse Street on Fall Street.)

  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 New York City subway system, which opened in 1904, was the first rapid transit system in the world. The original line ran from City Hall to 145th Street in Harlem.
New York random facts
Seneca County, located in the Finger Lakes region of New York, has a rich and diverse history. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Cayuga and the Seneca, who used the land for hunting and agriculture. In the late 18th century, European settlers began to move into the area, displacing the native population.

The county was officially established in 1804 and named after the Seneca people. It quickly became an important center for trade and commerce due to its strategic location along the Seneca River and the Erie Canal. The opening of the canal in 1825 further boosted economic development, allowing for the transportation of goods to and from the Great Lakes, New York City, and beyond.

During the mid-19th century, Seneca County experienced a significant influx of German and Irish immigrants, who came seeking employment opportunities in the growing manufacturing and industrial sectors. The county became known for its flour mills, breweries, and textile factories. The population also grew with the construction of the Seneca Army Depot during World War II, which brought a surge of workers to the area.

In recent decades, Seneca County has faced economic challenges with the decline of traditional industries. However, the county remains a popular tourist destination, thanks to its picturesque landscapes, vibrant farm-to-table food scene, and numerous wineries and breweries. Today, Seneca County is known for its natural beauty, rich history, and a strong sense of community.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Seneca County, New York.

  • 1789: Seneca County is established as one of the original counties in the state of New York.
  • 1809: Construction of the Seneca Canal begins, connecting Seneca Lake to the Erie Canal.
  • 1817: The construction of the Seneca Canal is completed, facilitating transportation and trade in the region.
  • 1823: The village of Waterloo is incorporated, becoming the first village in Seneca County.
  • 1844: The First Women's Rights Convention is held in Seneca Falls, marking a significant event in the women's suffrage movement.
  • 1883: The Historic Seneca County Courthouse is built in Waterloo, serving as the seat of government for the county.
  • 1903: The Seneca Army Depot is established, becoming an important military installation during World War II and the Cold War.
  • 2015: The Seneca Meadows Landfill, one of the largest landfills in New York State, ceases operations after nearly 30 years.