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Area of Work

History & Culture

Unearthing more context around our parks and exploring new perspectives

The national parks have so many stories to tell and lessons to teach us. Battles have been waged here and entire civilizations have lived on these lands. We must protect these places and resources that bear witness to our histories and preserve them for future generations.

Artist Joe Nelson walks by a mural in Pullman National Monument
Preserving Pullman
Reflecting on the incredible stories from Pullman National Monument with Chicago artist Joe Nelson.
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From monuments to mountains, our national parks contain some of our country’s greatest treasures. They are also a living museum that helps us understand significant moments that shaped our nation. The National Park Foundation (NPF) works to better understand America today by fully reflecting on our past.

Our work focuses on sharing more comprehensive perspectives and experiences that give us a richer connection to our country. This involves dynamic educational programs, professional development opportunities, rehabilitation of historic sites, and the preservation – both physically and digitally – of irreplaceable artifacts and places.

We are committed to unearthing and sharing more inclusive stories that haven’t been previously told. And shedding light on important figures who deserve recognition for their role in history. By elevating stories of America’s diversity and the fight for equality, we spark meaningful conversations about our past and continue working to achieve a more perfect union.

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By the Numbers

  • 870
    Oral Histories
    In 2018, NPF helped digitally record and preserve the memories of those who witnessed the uprisings commemorated by Stonewall National Monument, as well as the passengers and crew memorialized at Flight 93 National Memorial.
  • 156
    Historic Structures Restored
    In 2021, NPF helped restore or rehabilitate 156 historic structures, from the lighthouse at Cape Hatteras to buildings at Portsmouth Village at Cape Lookout.
  • 5
    New Parks Created
    In the last decade, NPF has helped NPS stand up 5 new parks through land acquisition and seed funding, including Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home National Monument, Camp Nelson National Monument, Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, Harriet Tubman National Historical Park, and Martin Luther King, Jr., National Historical Park.

Programs

Supporting Partner

Additional program support provided by Pendleton Woolen Mills.

Updates

Related Stories

Two women kapa beating while sitting on a mat
Women Redefining Home

An NPS Women's History in the Pacific West Fellow is exploring the intricate narratives of home and the often-overlooked contributions of women in shaping the American West.

All History & Culture Stories