Yellowstone Historic Resource Study The History of the Construction of the Road System in Yellowstone National Park, 1872-1966

As part of the National Park Service mission to protect and interpret its resources, it is important to make valuable, historical information readily available. Therefore, I am pleased to present this volume in our occasional series of publications on the Rocky Mountain Region's past.

This study, prepared by Mary Shivers Culpin, when she was Regional Historian of the National Park Service, Rocky Mountain Regional Office, provides detailed historical information covering nearly 100 years of road construction in Yellowstone National Park. In addition to the history of road construction in the Park, the study also provides Cultural Resource Management information in regards to the significance of the roads and bridges. This valuable information will assist park managers in planning the changes to the road system as part of the Federal Highway Administration's multi-decade road construction project.

Robert M. Baker
Regional Director
Rocky Mountain Region

Mission: As the Nation's principal conservation agency, The Department of Interior has responsibility for most of our nationally-owned public lands and natural and cultural resources. This includes fostering wise use of our land and water resources, protecting our fish and wildlife, preserving the environmental and cultural values of our national parks and historical places, and providing for the enjoyment of life through outdoor recreation. The Department assesses our energy and mineral resources and works to assure that their development is in the best interests of all our people. The Department also promotes the goals of the Take Pride in America campaign by encouraging stewardship and citizen responsibility for the public lands and promoting citizen participation in their care. The Department also has a major responsibility for American Indian reservation communities and for people who live in Island Territories under U.S. Administration. NPS-D-524.