Cover Page

Contents

THE NATIONAL PARKS are wonderful vacation spots—beautiful, with ideal opportunities for outdoor recreation. They are, moreover, pleasing and satisfying to our soul and provide mental relaxation and inspiration. This we have endeavored to point out, almost in capsule form, in this little booklet.

The saga of national parks indirectly chronicles the greatness of our Nation. It deals with the tremendously impressive scenery with which the country is so lavishly endowed and which in the scenic parks is preserved in the natural state that the earliest white man encountered.

It also tells of the courage and strength of the peoples whose united endeavors have made the America of today. Throughout the story, in various historic parks, flit memories of the derring-do of the Spanish, French, and English explorers who braved the unknown land; and of the high courage of the early settlers. Pre-Columbian Indians are glimpsed through the ruins of their homes high in cliffs or on mesa tops where fascinating secrets of advanced native cultures of long ago are revealed. Pioneers in covered wagons and in log cabins on the perilous frontier appear. Colonial life passes briefly. Wars are seen through preserved battlefields, where men fought and died to protect their homes or for their ideals.

This booklet is in no sense intended as a history. Rather, it gives a glimpse here and a bit there of the many fascinating facets of the national park story. Its author, Isabelle Story, who knows and loves the parks, has endeavored, through pictures and a few printed words, to make live for all who glance through it the national park story that has thrilled so many of us.

Much more could be said if space permitted. The economic value of the national parks could be pointed out—and it is great, to neighboring communities, the States, and the Federal Government. The ramifications of national park preservation, protection, and use could be explained, including the fact that care of the parks and of the visitor involves practically every modern science and technique. Many people could be mentioned who belong in the gallery of national park "greats."

Perhaps, however, enough is said—or hinted—to encourage the reader to delve more fully into national park history. If that happens, I am well content; and I'm sure that Isabelle Story will feel that her efforts were well worth while. The National Park Service is thankful to her for a job well done.

Director, National Park Service.

Last Modified: Sat, Oct 5 2002 10:00:00 pm PDT
story/storya.htm