Historical Marker

National Parks of the Cascades

Historical marker location:
Marblemount, Washington
( Marker can be reached from Cascade River Road.)

  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 state's official bird is the American goldfinch, which is known for its bright yellow color and cheerful song.
Washington random facts
Skagit County, Washington, located in the Pacific Northwest, carries a rich and diverse history shaped by its natural resources, early settlements, and cultural heritage. The region was originally inhabited by indigenous communities such as the Coast Salish tribes, including the Upper Skagit, Swinomish, and Samish. These tribes shared a deep connection to the land, relying on fishing, hunting, and gathering for sustenance.

The arrival of European settlers in the mid-19th century brought significant changes to the area. The first permanent non-indigenous settlement, La Conner, was established in 1867 by John Conner and has since evolved into a picturesque town with a charming waterfront and vibrant arts community. The fertile soil of Skagit County attracted settlers for farming, leading to the growth of other towns like Mount Vernon and Burlington.

In the late 1800s, the Great Northern Railway's introduction to the county opened up opportunities for trade and transportation, accelerating development and connecting Skagit County to larger markets. Timber became a vital industry, driving the local economy and providing employment for many residents. The county saw a period of rapid growth and urbanization as a result.

The 20th century brought further transformations, with Skagit County becoming a popular tourist destination. Renowned for its scenic beauty and diverse ecosystems, the county is home to numerous national parks and recreation areas, most notably North Cascades National Park and the Skagit Valley Bald Eagle Natural Area. Today, Skagit County continues to thrive, with a strong agricultural presence, flourishing arts scene, and a reputation as an outdoor enthusiast's paradise.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Skagit County, Washington.

  • 1853: Skagit County is established on November 28.
  • 1870s: Logging and sawmills drive the local economy.
  • 1883: The town of Mount Vernon is incorporated.
  • 1889: The Great Northern Railway connects Skagit County to the rest of Washington.
  • 1926: The Skagit River Hydroelectric Project brings economic growth to the area.
  • 1930s: Skagit County suffers from the effects of the Great Depression.
  • 1940s: The County experiences a boost in economic activity due to World War II.
  • 1963: The North Cascades National Park is established, preserving the natural beauty of the region.
  • 1970s: Agriculture, including dairy farming and berry cultivation, becomes a major industry.
  • 1995: The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival begins, drawing visitors from around the world.
  • 2003: The Skagit River Bridge collapse occurs, leading to significant infrastructure improvements.