Congaree National Park turns 40
October 12, 2016
In October of 1976, President Gerald Ford signed legislation which created Congaree National Monument, later changed to Congaree National Park. This action preserved the old growth bottomland forests of Congaree along with rich history, miles of streams, and a wide range of wildlife. It was also the result of a grassroots campaign, individuals who recognized the importance of protecting such a special place. The stories of these individuals and the movement to create Congaree National Park will be highlighted as part of the park’s 40th Anniversary celebration the week of October 18.
Several activities are planned for the weeklong celebration, providing a wide range of opportunities for visitors to connect with the park. Some of these activities include guided hikes, canoe tours, special programs in the Harry Hampton Visitor Center, and a ceremony at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, October 18 which will celebrate the park anniversary. Numerous displays and exhibits will showcase the park stories and local artist Stephen Chesley will be unveiling a new painting to be displayed at the park. A special evening program will be offered on Friday, October 21 and will feature a cast of characters who will bring the colorful history of Congaree National Park to life. “We are really looking forward to celebrating this important milestone,” says Park Superintendent Tracy Stakely, “This has been an eventful year, with the Centennial of the National Park Service and a lot of activities. We look forward to recognizing the efforts of those who worked to establish Congaree as part of the National Park system.”
All activities are open to the public and are free of charge. For additional information please call the Harry Hampton Visitor Center at (803)776-4396.
Join Congaree National Park on social media: www.facebook.com/CongareeNP, www.twitter.com/CongareeNPS, www.flickr.com/photos/congareenps/ and www.pinterest.com/congareenps.
Celebrate the Centennial of the National Park Service in 2016! The centennial will kick off a second century of stewardship of America’s national parks and engaging communities through recreation, conservation, and historic preservation programs. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/subjects/centennial. Find Your Park at www.findyourpark.com.
