Cape Cod National Seashore to Host Cape Cod National Seashore The First 50 Years Program

Date: August 1, 2011
Contact: Bob McCormack, Park Ranger, 508-255-3421

2011 marks fifty years since President John Kennedy signed legislation protecting 44,000 acres on the Outer Cape. "Cape Cod offers one of the last remaining chances to preserve a major recreational area from ultimate destruction", said the President. On August 7, 1961 President Kennedy signed into law the Cape Cod National Seashore. "This act makes it possible," he said, "for the people of the United States, through their Government, to acquire and preserve the natural and historic values of a portion of Cape Cod for the inspiration and enjoyment of people all over the United States."  

On August 9 at 7:00 PM at Salt Pond Visitor Center in Eastham, Park Historian Bill Burke and author and actor Dan Lombardo will present an illustrated program on the history of the National Seashore. The program will focus on the evolution and changes at the National Seashore since its establishment. Burke will present the park's dynamic story and share intriguing historical images that show the journey that the Cape Cod National Seashore has taken over the past 50 years. Lombardo, who is a managing staff member of the Wellfleet Harbor Actors Theater (WHAT) and has appeared in films on PBS and BBC television, will discuss the development of his book, "Cape Cod National Seashore: The First 50 Years," that was recently released. After the presentation, he will sign copies of his book.The program is free, accessible, and sponsored by Friends of the Cape Cod National Seashore.

If you go: Salt Pond Visitor Center is located at the intersection of Route 6 and Nauset Road in Eastham and is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5 PM.The center includes a lobby with expansive views of Salt Pond, Nauset Marsh, and the Atlantic; a museum featuring the park's natural and cultural stories; staff to assist with trip planning, and a store with books, maps, puzzles, games, t-shirts, and 50thh anniversary commemorative items. There are short films shown throughout the day. The Buttonbush and Nauset Marsh Trails, and the Nauset Bike Trail are located nearby. For more information on Cape Cod National Seashore programs, check the park's website, www.nps.gov/caco.

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