June 30, 1864, amid the Civil War… The Yosemite Grant Act

President Abraham Lincoln signed the Yosemite Grant Act into law on June 30, 1864, amidst the brutal American Civil War. This landmark legislation granted Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias to the state of California, stipulating that the land be preserved "for public use, resort, and recreation."

Amidst the chaos of a nation torn apart by war, President Lincoln demonstrated remarkable foresight and appreciation for Yosemite's natural beauty.

He ensured its protection for future generations through the Yosemite Grant Act, a pivotal moment in the history of American conservation that paved the way for the creation of the National Park System.

“Yosemite Valley, to me, is always a sunrise, a glitter of green and golden wonder in a vast edifice of stone and space.” ― Ansel Adams

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