As we approach the 2004 presidential election, it is fitting that we reflect on the storied history of the American Presidency and the outstanding men who have served this country as President of the United States. The holders of this high office are men who framed and defined our liberty and freedom, and who led the nation through its infancy and early growing pains to become the leader of the free world. They held the nation together during critical times of civil war, world war, depression, cold war, and terrorism. Their belief in this nation is so strong that they have been willing to take on the great responsibility of president despite the personal sacrifices required. As Americans we take pride in the men who have served and continue to serve this nation as president. We are appreciative and grateful to them for their leadership and defense of our freedoms. They and the events of their lives that led them to the presidency are held in high esteem by all Americans as links to our common heritage and the growth of our nation.

The National Park Service has the honor of preserving and managing numerous areas that commemorate the birthplaces, homes, and historic events associated with many of our presidents. The personal struggles, ideals, and accomplishments of many of the men who served as President of the United States are celebrated throughout the National Park System. Our American Presidents and the events that shaped their future are celebrated in areas as diverse as The Washington Monument in Washington, D.C., Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Appomattox Court House National Historical Park in Virginia, Mount Rushmore National Monument in South Dakota, Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt in New York and Fort Necessity National Battlefield in Pennsylvania. National parks preserve and commemorate many sites of historical significance in the lives of our presidents and in the development of the nation.

The National Park Service offers a great opportunity to celebrate one of our greatest freedoms, the right to elect our national leader. Visiting one of the many sites that commemorates our presidents provides a chance to learn and reflect about the men who have served this nation as president and how they responded to the critical events of their time. Listed below is a sampling of National Park Service sites that can help visitors gain an understanding of the American Presidency and provide a link to our past, present, and future. For a more complete list of parks and additional information about them, visit our Celebrate the American Presidency in America’s National Parks website at: http://www.nps.gov/pub_aff/pres/celebrate.htm.