Historical Marker

National Park Armed Service Monument

Historical marker location:
National Park, New Jersey
( Marker is on Hessian Road, on the right when traveling west.)
Marker installed: 1983

  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 first recorded boardwalk in the world was built in Atlantic City, New Jersey in 1870. The boardwalk was originally constructed as a way to keep sand out of the city's hotels and railway cars.
New Jersey random facts
Gloucester County, New Jersey has a rich and diverse history dating back to before the founding of the United States. The area was originally inhabited by the Lenni-Lenape Native American tribe, who farmed and hunted in the region. European settlers arrived in the late 17th century, primarily from England and Ireland, establishing farms and small communities.

During the American Revolutionary War, Gloucester County played a significant role in the fight for independence. The county's residents actively participated in the war effort, with notable events such as the Battle of Red Bank in 1777, where local militia defended Fort Mercer against British forces. The outcome of this battle spurred further momentum for the Revolutionary cause.

In the 19th century, Gloucester County experienced significant industrial growth. The county's proximity to Philadelphia and its natural resources, including rich farmland and waterways, attracted industries such as glass manufacturing, ironworking, and shipbuilding. The town of Glassboro became known for its glass industry, producing high-quality glassware and bottles. This period of industrialization brought economic growth and population expansion to the county.

In the 20th century, Gloucester County transformed into a suburban area as more people moved from Philadelphia in search of affordable housing and a quieter lifestyle. The county's agricultural heritage remained strong, with many farms continuing to operate and supply the local community with fresh produce. In recent years, Gloucester County has seen further development and diversification, with the establishment of technology and research-based businesses, as well as the growth of higher education institutions such as Rowan University.

Overall, Gloucester County's history is marked by its role in the Revolutionary War, industrial development, agricultural heritage, and transition to a suburban community with a growing emphasis on education and technology.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Gloucester County, New Jersey.

  • 1686 - Gloucester County is officially established in the Province of West Jersey.
  • 1777 - Gloucester County plays a significant role in the American Revolutionary War, with the Battle of Red Bank taking place in the county.
  • 1800s - Gloucester County experiences rapid industrialization, particularly in glass manufacturing.
  • 1860 - The county's population reaches nearly 40,000 residents as agriculture and manufacturing thrive.
  • 1871 - The West Jersey and Seashore Railroad connects Gloucester County to Atlantic City, boosting tourism in the region.
  • 1950s - Post-World War II suburbanization leads to significant population growth in Gloucester County.
  • 1965 - Glassboro hosts the historic Glassboro Summit Conference between U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson and Soviet Premier Alexei Kosygin during the Cold War.
  • 1992 - Rowan College (now Rowan University) is granted university status, becoming a major educational institution in Gloucester County.