Find Your Park and Celebrate the 100th Birthday of the National Park Service At Homestead National Monument of America

Date: August 14, 2016

Beatrice, NE –The National Park Service is turning 100 years old on August 25 and Homestead National Monument of America wants you to join the party! Come to the park and join us for birthday cake from 1-3 pm at the Homestead Education Center. Visit the National Homesteading Museum and enjoy the award winning film "Land of Dreams".

On August 25, 2016, at 10 a.m. the elementary students of Beatrice will join in a celebration honoring the Centennial of the National Park Service. The public is invited to join this celebration featuringmusic by the String Beans and special presentations.

During this Centennial year, citizens are encouraged to Find Your Park by visiting national park sites throughout the country.The national parks are very different and any interest you have, you can find a park that you can do that in.Visitors can share their park experiences with others by posting on social media with the hashtag #FindYourPark.

"Birthdays are a time to celebrate and we want everyone to join the party," said Superintendent Mark Engler. "Homestead National Monument of America offers something for everyone, so I invite you to visit and Find Your Park."

On August 25, 1916, President Woodrow Wilson signed legislation to create the National Park Service. Today, there are 408 national parks throughout the country and each one tells an important part of the American story. Some commemorate notable people and achievements, others conserve magnificent landscapes and natural wonders, and all provide a place to have fun and learn. And, on August 25, all national parks will offer free entrance for everyone.

Homestead National Monument of America was established in 1936 to commemorate the Homestead Act of 1862 and its influence on the country and the world. Last year, more than 69,000 visitors enjoyed the site and added $2.4 million to the local economy and supported 33 area jobs. 

The mission of the National Park Service also extends beyond park boundaries. Community partnerships help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. To see what is happening in Nebraska go to www.nps.gov/NE.

EXPERIENCE YOUR AMERICATM