Historical Marker

From Military Base to National Park

Historical marker location:
Sullivans Island, South Carolina
( Marker is at the intersection of Middle Street and Palmetto Street, on the left when traveling west on Middle 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.

South Carolina was a major center of the transatlantic slave trade. Charleston was one of the busiest ports for the importation of enslaved Africans in North America, with an estimated 40% of all enslaved Africans brought to the United States passing through the city.
South Carolina random facts
Charleston County, located in the southern part of South Carolina, has a rich and storied history that dates back centuries. The area was originally home to various Native American tribes, such as the Cusabo and the Kiawah, who thrived along the coast. European exploration began in the late 16th century when Spanish, French, and English expeditions arrived.

In 1670, the English established the first permanent European settlement in the region, known as Charles Towne. The settlement quickly grew and became an important trading port, attracting colonists from England, Scotland, and Germany. By the early 18th century, Charleston had become one of the wealthiest and largest cities in the American colonies.

During the Revolutionary War, Charleston played a pivotal role as a major British stronghold. In 1780, the city was attacked and captured by British forces, leading to a period of occupation until 1782. However, Charlestonians' resilience and contributions to the war effort were crucial in gaining independence.

In the 19th century, Charleston County experienced tremendous growth and prosperity, driven by industries such as rice and indigo plantations, and later, the cotton industry. This prosperity relied heavily on enslaved African labor, leading to significant social, economic, and cultural impacts on the county. The rise of the abolitionist movement and the ensuing Civil War would later shape Charleston's history and lead to its ultimate transformation.

Today, Charleston County is a diverse and vibrant region, known for its historic charm, beautiful architecture, and thriving tourism industry. It continues to honor and preserve its rich history while embracing progress and growth in various sectors, including education, healthcare, and technology.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Charleston County, South Carolina.

  • 1670 - Charleston County established when English settlers arrive and establish Charles Town.
  • 1718 - Blackbeard the pirate is killed off the coast of Charleston County.
  • 1776 - Charleston County residents sign the South Carolina Constitution.
  • 1861 - American Civil War begins with the bombardment of Fort Sumter in Charleston County.
  • 1871 - First public school in Charleston County opens.
  • 1927 - Ravenel Bridge, connecting Charleston County to Mount Pleasant, is completed.
  • 1989 - Hurricane Hugo hits Charleston County, causing significant damage.
  • 2000 - Charleston County population reaches over 309,969 people.
  • 2015 - Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church shooting in Charleston County.