NATIONAL PARK SERVICE THAT THE PAST SHALL LIVE... the history program of the National Park Service

THE Historic Sites Act of 1935 declared it to be a "national policy to preserve for public use, historic sites, buildings and objects of national significance for the inspiration and benefit of the people of the United States."

These, then, are some of the ways in which the National Park Service—given new vigor and sinews by MISSION 66—is seeking to discharge its responsibilities given to the Department of the Interior under that Act.

At a time when the surge of population growth and progress is "plowing under" priceless elements of our historical heritage at an alarming rate, the task is a most difficult one—one that will require the help of every American to whom the great men and moments of our past are meaningful.

Some of course may ask, why is it important to save these old places, these ancient buildings?

Part of the answer must be found in the value of history itself.

History is the cumulative memory of mankind, and without it neither individuals nor nations can fully understand the present or wisely plan for the future.

Most important, perhaps, history teaches us the meaning of the Biblical words, "I have given you a land for which ye did not labor." It shows us how much we owe to the past sacrifices of others. It kindles in us a quiet pride in the accomplishments of our forebears, and makes us determine to put the future in debt to us. This resolve is that true patriotism without which no nation or people can hope to survive.

In supporting the MISSION 66 program for the national parks, President Eisenhower and the Secretary of the Interior were not only taking a realistic view of the needs of the present, but they were looking ahead to the challenge of the future.

The United States today stands on the threshold of a new age—an age not only of vastly expanded population, but also one of greatly increased leisure time. If this nation is to continue strong, a significant portion of this leisure time must be used in ways which will strengthen the moral fibre of its citizens. Our mountains, lakes, seashores, rivers, and forests—and our historic sites—are resources which will help make this possible. They must be preserved, and used.

The National Park Service is pledged to do its part by utilizing its resources to give the American people the maximum of enjoyment, understanding, and inspiration from the sites and objects inherited from our past.

In this vital work it invites the cooperation and support of every American who shares in its conviction that the past is prologue—that history and destiny are linked.

To understand the past is to have faith in the future.

To maintain its strength and freedom, this is what America needs—both the understanding and the faith. It is what the National Park Service, through the historical program described in this booklet, is working to assure.