Bring American History to Life with Inspiring Posters

June 12, 2025

American history is a tapestry woven with stories of courage, struggle, and the pursuit of freedom. Few periods capture the imagination quite like the American Revolution. From the defiant cries of “no taxation without representation” to the thunder of muskets at Yorktown, this era shaped the very foundation of the United States.

Did you know that the American Revolution was the longest military conflict before the Vietnam War, lasting from 1775 to 1783? Or that France’s intervention, particularly its naval support, played a pivotal role in the British surrender at Yorktown? History enthusiasts, educators, and others interested in this period can delve deeper with these visually striking representations of this pivotal time with the U.S. Government Bookstore’s engaging American Revolution history posters, perfect for classrooms, offices, or homes.

More than just decorative, these posters are windows into the past. Discover American history on:

Consider these American Revolution history posters to bring a piece of American history to life or deepen your understanding of this incredible period.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publications and Information Sales Office.

Images and additional content provided by Government Book Talk Editor Trudy Hawkins. Trudy is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Art, National Park Service, U.S. History, Uncategorized | Tagged: , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

How to Make the Most of National Park Week?

April 17, 2025

National Park Week is around the corner, from April 19th to the 27th. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover (or rediscover) the breathtaking beauty of America’s National Park System.

If you’re dreaming of towering mountains, serene forests, dramatic coastlines, or historical landmarks, there’s a national park waiting to captivate you. This annual event is a chance to connect with these treasured places and learn about their significance.

Can’t get out to enjoy the parks in person? The National Park Service (NPS) recently remastered its popular posters, which bring the beauty of America’s national parks to life. The posters showcase stunning art by the iconic artist Charley Harper. Charley Harper was an American mid-century modern artist recognized for his bold, graphic style and nature illustrations. Harper created fascinating artwork for a series of ten posters for the NPS that captured the essence of different parks in America.

Here are a few of the National Park posters featuring Charley Harper’s artwork:

Atlantic Barrier Islands depicts the animal and plant life of the Atlantic Barrier Islands. This poster showcases the rich wildlife of the barrier islands, including shorebirds, sea turtles, and dolphins.

Hawaii Volcanoes depicts Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This poster features the volcanic landscapes of Hawaii, with flowing lava, cinder cones, and native Hawaiian plants and animals.

The Rocky Mountains depict color and the animal and plant life of the Rocky Mountains. On the poster, a beaver pond reflects the landscape of the Rockies, a terrain shaped by glaciers, streams, and the beaver itself.

How to Make the Most of National Park Week:

  • Plan Your Visit: Check the website of the national park or parks you’re interested in visiting for specific events and activities during the week. Reservations may be required for some programs.
  • Explore Something New: Consider visiting a park you’ve never visited! You might be surprised by the hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
  • Get Involved: Look for volunteer opportunities or ways to support the National Park Service.
  • Share Your Experience: Use the hashtag #NationalParkWeek to share your photos and stories on social media and inspire others to explore.

Whether or not you plan on visiting a national park this summer, Charley Harper’s nature-oriented prints can take you there without leaving home.

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Trudy Hawkins is Government Book Talk Editor and Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Art, National Park Service, National Park Service | Tagged: , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Captivating Posters from the NPS

March 29, 2024

The National Park Service (NPS) recently remastered its popular posters that bring the beauty of America’s national parks to life, showcasing stunning art by the iconic artist Charley Harper. Charley Harper was an American mid-century modern artist recognized for his bold, graphic style and nature illustrations. Harper created fascinating artwork for a series of ten posters for the National Park Service that captured the essence of different parks in America.

Here are a few of the National Park posters featuring Charley Harper’s artwork:

Glacier Bay, Alaska poster explores the abundance and variety of life inhabiting the Bay.

Canyon Country poster depicts the Canyon Country National Parks in southern Utah, northern Arizona, eastern Nevada, and western Colorado. Enjoy enchanted landscapes of colorful pinnacles, buttes, spires, mesas, and canyons teeming with wildlife.

The Coral Reef poster explores the abundance and variety of coral reef sea life inhabiting Caribbean reef preserves.

Plus, seven more amazing posters of enduring beauty are available here.

These iconic posters feature vivid colors, simplified shapes, and a whimsical depiction of the flora and fauna of each park. They continue to be popular today, celebrating the beauty and diversity of America’s national parks.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publications and Information Sales Office.

Images and additional content provided by Government Book Talk Editor Trudy Hawkins. Trudy is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Art, Art and Architecture, Department of the Interior, National Park Service, National Park Service | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Celebrating MLK Day

January 12, 2024

Celebrated on the third Monday of January each year, Martin Luther King Jr. Day honors the life and legacy of the iconic civil rights leader.

King became a Baptist minister and emerged as the most visible spokesperson and leader in the civil rights movement from the mid-1950s until his assassination in 1968. Through his nonviolent activism, including boycotts, marches, and powerful speeches, King challenged racial segregation and discrimination in the United States.

His Truth Is Marching On: Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Dream of Freedom, available from the US Government Bookstore, offers a glimpse of key moments in the civil rights movement and how Martin Luther King Jr. overcame obstacles in his quest for equality. This historical memoir includes a pictorial history through photographs, maps, and illustrations of the King family, famous civil rights leaders, and Dr. King’s legacy. Learn about his struggle and how he lived to bring hope and freedom to all.

Some of his most notable achievements include:

  • Leading the Montgomery bus boycott in 1955-56, which successfully challenged racial segregation on public transportation.
  • Delivering the iconic “I Have a Dream” speech during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963.
  • Playing a key role in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965

King’s legacy continues to inspire people around the world to fight for justice, equality, and freedom. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is not just a day to celebrate King’s accomplishments but also a day to reflect on his message of hope, love, and nonviolence and to recommit ourselves to the ongoing struggle for racial justice.

Here are some ways you can observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day:

  • Participate in a march or rally for racial justice.
  • Volunteer your time to a civil rights organization.
  • Educate yourself about the history of the civil rights movement.

By keeping Dr. King Jr.’s dream alive, we can work towards a future where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, regardless of race or background.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | African Americans, Department of the Interior, Libraries, Minorities, National Park Service, National Park Service | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Gift ideas from the Federal Government

December 12, 2023

The holidays are fast approaching. If you’re still searching for that special gift, let the Federal government help. From national parks to American history and more, the Federal government offers stunning prints and wall posters that make great stocking stuffers for your loved ones, colleagues, or friends. Whether shopping for someone who appreciates the outdoors or looking for something educational to display in a child’s room, there is a poster for everyone on your Christmas list.

Tips for choosing a poster:

  • Consider the recipient’s interests. What are they passionate about? What kind of art do they like?
  • Choose a high-quality poster. The poster should be made from thick, durable paper and have high-quality printing.
  • Think about the size of the poster. The poster should be large enough to make a statement but not so large that it overwhelms the space.
  • Frame the poster. A framed poster looks more polished and professional.

Below are a few ideas for outdoor lovers available from the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) U.S. Bookstore.

Atlantic Barrier Islands (Poster) is a National Park Service commissioned poster by famed nature artist Charley Harper. This poster is printed on heavy paper with the print quality of a lithograph.

Yosemite National Park (Poster). Looking down Yosemite Valley from west to east, an alpine panorama depicts Yosemite National Park’s wondrous rock forms, hanging valleys, waterfalls, lakes, and streams, with El Capitan and Half Dome forming the central spectacle with Bridalveil and Yosemite Falls.

A Photographer’s Path: Images of National Parks Near the Nation’s Capital is a stunning coffee table book with colorful photographic images of nature and history in Greater Washington DC.

We also offer American history posters for the history buff and much more here.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Art, Art and Architecture, Gifts, National Park Service, National Park Service, Teachers and teaching, Travel and Tourism | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

The Great Outdoors

June 17, 2021

Grand Canyon National Park, NPS

Summer is upon us and with COVID-19 cases declining across the country, Americans now have the opportunity to experience family outings again. And as temperatures are warming, Americans as well as foreign visitors are making national parks their favorite outdoor destinations.

No one values America’s great outdoors more than our President. In his Great Outdoors proclamation, President Biden encourages all Americans to “explore our Nation’s beautiful outdoor spaces.  As we enjoy the great outdoors — from national parks to our own backyards — let us rededicate ourselves to conserving our Nation’s natural spaces for our own well-being, and for the health, safety, prosperity, and fulfillment of generations to come.”

If you are still planning that special destination you may want to acquire this helpful guide about how to prepare and check out in advance the details of a trip to America’s National Park System.

To help you make the most of your trip, visit the Government Publishing Office online bookstore for incredible natural wonders to explore across many national parks from the rocky coast of Maine to the deserts of southern California and Arizona.

Check out our national park resources at: https://bookstore.gpo.gov/catalog/national-parks.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN NATIONAL PARKS RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication and Information Sales program office.

Leave a Comment » | Landmarks & Monuments, National Park Service, National Park Service, Travel and Tourism | Tagged: , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Government Resources for Great Outdoors Month

June 9, 2020

June is designated as ’Great Outdoors Month.’ According to the Department of the Interior, you can celebrate this month by “getting out to America’s public lands and waters.” We here at GPO know how tough it’s been to stay at home this spring with the coronavirus pandemic, but one of the best things you can do for your mental health during this time is to get outside. And luckily, many of our national parks are beginning to partially or fully reopen.

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon in Arizona is now open for recreational access with some services. According to the National Park Service, day hiking is now permitted on rim and inner canyon trails, and some visitor facilities are open. Desert View and North Rim remain closed.

A Living Canyon: Discovering Life at the Grand Canyon from the GPO Bookstore describes the diverse wildlife of the Grand Canyon and how plants and animals are adapting as the global climate changes.

The rumors are true … high elevation is likely to affect you differently than your home environment. If you and other family members or friends aren’t used to hiking in high elevations, you’ll want to come extra prepared for hiking the Grand Canyon. Drink lots of water, take breaks if you need to, and protect your skin with sunscreen and hats.

Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado is open, but some facilities and areas remain closed due to COVID–19. According to the National Park Service, beginning June 4, Rocky Mountain National Park will require a timed entry permit or camping reservation to enter the park in a private vehicle between the hours of 6 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Rocky Mountain National Park (Map) from the GPO Bookstore covers the 415 square miles of spectacular mountain views. Use this map to find Trail Ridge Road, which crests at over 12,000 feet and offers many overlooks to experience the subalpine and alpine worlds, along with over 300 miles of hiking trails, wildflowers, wildlife, starry nights, and fun times.

If you live near Yellowstone National Park, you’re in luck. Yellowstone National Park opened its Montana entrances Monday, June 1 at 10 a.m. The Montana entrances include West Entrance (near West Yellowstone), North Entrance (near Gardiner), and Northeast Entrance (near Cooke City).

At Yellowstone, as Naturalist John Muir described it back in the 1880s, prepare to see “Nature at work as a chemist.” With more active geo-thermal features than the rest of the world, Yellowstone is wild and alive. Sure, you’ve heard of the famous Old Faithful. But altogether there are actually more than 10,000 thermal features at Yellowstone, including geysers, hot springs, mudpots, and fumaroles. Here, you’ll experience a rainbow of vivid colors as water flows from hot springs, starting with yellow, then orange and green. The unique activity in the park provides geologists with a glimpse into what goes on thousands of miles beneath the Earth’s surface. In all its bubbling and erupting wonder, Yellowstone has been regarded as a sacred place by the groups of people who have lived near it throughout time. In fact, it’s believed that early Native American visitors to Yellowstone left offerings at thermal features to show their respect.

Purchase the Yellowstone National Trip Planner 2020 to help you navigate the expansive park at over 30,000 square miles connecting land through the states of Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. This handy 16-page pocket guide provides you and your family with all the essential details to help you plan for a memorable trip.

The GPO Bookstore has these and many other national park resources for you to explore. We hope everyone is staying safe and healthy during these unprecedented times. If you have the opportunity this June, visit a national park near you!

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Cat Goergen is the PR Specialist in GPO’s Public Relations office.

Leave a Comment » | Department of the Interior, National Park Service, National Park Service, Travel and Tourism | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

GPO Holiday Gift Guide: Publications for the Avid Traveler

November 26, 2019

Joshua Tree National Park, NPS

The holidays are right around the corner! It’s time to stop distracting yourself with perfecting your hot chocolate recipe, hanging the stockings with care, and dashing through the snow, and begin the real work – shopping for gifts! GPO is here to help all season long with our 2019 holiday gift guide. Today, we’re discussing avid travelers. These happy nomads are perhaps some of the hardest people to shop for. Their free spirits are inspired by adventure, not material things! They bop from here to there with an insatiable wanderlust and a desire to discover new food, art, sceneries, and people.

The perfect place to start with a gift for a traveler? Think about where they’re headed to next and give them some resources to help them prepare! GPO offers Official National Park Handbooks for Yellowstone, Yosemite, the Everglades, Cape Cod, and so much more. From great geysers to canopies of trees to charming seashores, the traveler in your life will be in awe of these spectacular destinations. These handbooks, produced by the Department of the Interior and the National Park Service, offer endless information about the cultural and natural history of these National Parks, so the recipient of your well-thought out gift will be ready to tackle their next adventure. Along with any of these books, gift your favorite globetrotter with a special travel journal where they can write all about their journey and keep train tickets to memorable destinations or receipts for favorite foods they’ve tried around the globe.

The National Park System wall map poster shows the locations of parks in the National Park System. It was developed by the Publications Office at Harpers Ferry Center in response to the high volume of requests for an oversized version of the map of the National Park Service system. The map shows all 392 authorized units of the park system and measures 39 by 29 inches. Frame this poster as the perfect gift for anyone who loves the National Parks. Really want to go all out? Print and frame photos of your friend or family member on their travels so they can surround their poster with lots of personal pictures to remind them of their trips.

Treasured Landscapes showcases paintings, watercolors, sketches, and other works on paper from over 50 National Park Service museum collections. These works of art are seen together in this book for the first time to illustrate and tell the story of the Service’s first 100 years. Assembled to commemorate the National Park Service Centennial, 1916–2016, artworks capture the diversity of the national parks and Park Service collections, as well as the richness of artists’ encounters. They reflect the critical role that landscape art played in the establishment of the National Park Service. The works shown in the book capture awe-inspiring landscapes, honor individuals who have contributed to the nation’s identity, and commemorate inspiring American ideas and events.

Are you travelling somewhere exciting yourself? If so, be on the lookout for neat souvenirs for the avid traveler and add them to any of these publications for the perfect gift.

It can feel nearly impossible to find a good gift for someone who has seen so many parts of the world. When you start to get stressed, just think of the cozy crackle of the fire, or the jolly laughter of children making snow angels. Then, turn to GPO, of course! We hope this post helped give you a few ideas. Stay tuned for more gift ideas to come this holiday season. Happy gifting from GPO!

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Cat Goergen is the PR Specialist in GPO’s Public Relations office.

 

Leave a Comment » | Art, Department of the Interior, Gifts, National Park Service, National Park Service, Travel and Tourism | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

GPO Summer Travel Series: Glacier National Park

September 5, 2019

Going-to-the-Sun Road, NPS.

Summer is coming to a close. But there’s still one spot left on our bucket list. It might be last, but with its majestic alpines, spiritual falls, and shaggy-coated mountain goats, it is certainly not least. Bring your bug spray and pack away your snacks in case we spot a bear. Our last stop in our 2019 summer travels, nicknamed “Crown of the Continent” for its royal grandeur, is in Montana’s Rocky Mountains. We’re heading to one of our most scenic parks yet – Glacier National Park!

Okay, Junior Rangers, open your Junior Park Ranger Glacier National Park booklet! Your first challenge is to help park visitors leave no trace at the park. Let’s keep the park in pristine condition for the animals who live here and the people who visit after us. It’s essential to be wise about wildlife. Glacier is bear country, with both black bears and grizzly bears. Flip through your booklet to learn about how to hike with bears nearby and what every one of us can do to help wild animals survive in their natural habitats!

To get into the park, we’ll take a drive down Going-to-the-Sun Road, one of the main attractions of Glacier National Park. With views of peaked mountains, purple wildflowers, lush valleys, and Aspen groves, you’ll want to get your camera out for this part! Notice how clear the water is? The lakes here keep their enviable blue-green color because of the cold temperature of the water. Since most of the lakes don’t get above 50 degrees Fahrenheit at the surface, very few plankton grow here.

Time for a history lesson! The Salish, Kootenai, and Blackfeet peoples have been in and around the area of Glacier National Park for thousands of years. Once the settlers arrived, places were often renamed for the newcomers. Open your booklet to guess the native names for these places. Can you figure out the names of the digestive system of the buffalo, the waterfall where warrior woman and others went for spiritual guidance, and the mountain you need to be extra respectful of when visiting? Next, complete the rhymes to learn about how people moved through the area at different times throughout history, starting with the first Americans who traveled through the mountains in tribal bands. Once Glacier National Park was established in 1910, The Great Northern Railway company began to build hotels, trails, and of course, the railroad. This railroad provided transportation for those who wanted to travel West.

In 1932, Waterton-Glacier became the very first International Peace Park in the world. The park, which merged Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park and America’s Glacier National Park, symbolized the longstanding friendship between Canada and the United States. Now, write about what peace means to you. Stop and listen — the sounds of the water crashing on the rocks or the croaky calls of a Clark’s Nutcracker here at Glacier might help you describe your definition of peace!

Did you know scientists have been studying the glaciers in this park for more than 100 years? Since then, Glacier National Park has lost many of its glaciers, and many are shrinking. In your booklet, connect the dots to see what Shepard Glacier looked like 100 years ago and what it looks like now. Let’s go on a Geology Hunt in the park. At Lake McDonald, there are rocks of all colors of the rainbow! The Kootenai Indians called Lake McDonald “Dancing Place” because they believed it to be an excellent place to sway, spin, and twirl. What geological evidence can you find here? Look out for different colored pebbles, rocks in the streams, and the peaks on top of the mountains. These mountains, along with the U-shaped valleys, were shaped by the glaciers long ago.

Not quite at reading age yet? No problem! The GPO Bookstore has still got you covered with the Pre-Reader Activity Guide for Glacier National Park’s Youngest Junior Rangers. This booklet is full of fun activities for Glacier’s littlest explorers.

Thank you for experiencing the splendor that is Glacier National Park with us. We hope you learned a lot and that Glacier rejuvenated you for the school year ahead. Stay wild, travelers!

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Cat Goergen is the PR Specialist in GPO’s Public Relations office.

Leave a Comment » | Children, Department of the Interior, National Park Service, National Park Service, Travel and Tourism | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

GPO Summer Travel Series: Pecos National Historical Park

August 6, 2019

Mission Church and Convento

Thus far this summer we’ve experienced the aloha spirit of Hawaii, the falling waters of Yosemite, and even the golden badlands of Death Valley. You may be thinking there can’t possibly be any more to see. But our Nation is vast, with 58 national parks eagerly awaiting your adventure upon arrival. And our next park is full of rich culture and history. With a little imagination, you can still see this park’s original inhabitants weaving baskets from yucca plants and gathering around to tell the stories of their ancestors. Get ready to experience a big sky and open spaces at Pecos National Historical Park!

Before we head off for New Mexico, pick up the Pecos Junior Ranger Activity Book from the GPO Bookstore. This booklet lets kids explore the sites and history of Pecos National Historical Park, learn about the people, stories, and places of Pecos, and protect the park. They’ll start by interviewing a Park Ranger about their job. Before you know it, the kids in your crew will be living as the Pecos people once did – designing pottery, decoding messages in Morse Code, and creating a unique brand of cattle.

The booklet also serves as a guide for what to see and do at the park. The Ancestral Sites Trail will take us up through the Pecos Pueblo, which used to be a Native American community, and lead us to the Mission Church and Convento. Here, we will explore one of the reconstructed kivas, which were pit-houses used for religious ceremonies. You may notice that the structures are circular and have a hole in the middle. These holes represent the Pecos people’s connection to the underworld.

Using an ancient agricultural technique that originated in Mexico, the people of Pecos grew corn, beans, and squash and caught fish in the Pecos River. However, the Pecos people needed to trade with their neighboring tribes to prosper. In the booklet, readers will help the people from the Rio Grande Valley, and the Great Plains move their goods to the Pecos Pueblo to participate in the trade fair!

Did you know soldiers in the Civil War fought a Battle at Pecos? There’s still more to see! Next let’s hike the Battlefield Trail and explore the place where the Battle of Glorieta Pass, also known as the Gettysburg of the West, was fought. Though this pass is well-known for being a place of Civil War battle, humans have actually traveled on it for over 10,000 years!

Next, it’s off to Forked Lightning Ranch and Kozlowski’s Trading Post where travelers who made their way across the Santa Fe Trail stopped to purchase goods. Today the Trading Post is part of the Forked Lightning Ranch, the land along part of the Pecos River. According to the National Park Service, this land “has nourished and served the needs of the inhabitants and settlers of the region” for hundreds of years.

That’s all for Pecos. As always, thanks for coming along! We’re so glad we got to experience this park with you. What’s been your favorite park so far? Relive some of your old memories by searching “summer travel” on this blog. Rest up, and we will see you again soon for more travels!

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Cat Goergen is the PR Specialist in GPO’s Public Relations office.

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Posted by Trudy Hawkins

GPO Summer Travel Series: Bandelier National Monument

July 10, 2019

River-carved valley landscape, Bandelier National Monument. NPS.

Welcome back, summer travelers. If historic caves, petroglyphs, and ceremonial grounds inspire you, get excited. Thousands of years ago, in what is now modern-day New Mexico, Ancestral Pueblo people built homes carved from volcanic tuff. Today, the National Park Service protects the structures and cultural architecture at this next destination. So, what are you waiting for? Mentally prepare to climb lots of ladders, and let’s pay tribute to the place that preserves ancient Ancestral Pueblo dwellings—Bandelier National Monument!

With activities for kids from first grade to seventh grade, Bandelier National Monument Junior/Deputy Ranger Booklet is just what you need to make sure your trip to this National Monument is an educational adventure. First things, first! Together, let’s learn to respect and protect the park with a fill-in-the-blank challenge. Little Junior Rangers will be challenged to cross off things they see at the park – like cliff dwellings, the village, and ladders. To spot some of the ladders, we’ll head to the Alcove House. A series of four ladders and stone stairs make up the 140-foot climb to get to the house. Archeologists believe this house was once home to about 25 people. Another trail with ladders will lead to the Ancestral Pueblo village of Tsankawi. Here you’ll find distinct paths that the Ancestral Pueblo people themselves used – and experience the views of the mesa as they did thousands of years ago. Did you know human presence in the area goes back over 11,000 years?

Next, Junior Rangers will be challenged to interview a Ranger at the park. And once they climb the ladder into a Cavate Home, readers will be challenged to decide the best spot in the home to build a fire, store food, and sleep. Now, we’re going to take a stab at being an archeologist! Junior Rangers will look at structures, such as Big Kava and Tyuonyi ruins, from Ancestral Pueblo times, and think about what questions they would need to ask about each of the structures to determine their uses. Remember, the Ancestral Pueblo people lived here from about 1150 CE to 1550 CE, so they didn’t have the convenience of modern technology like we do today.

Another neat thing to check out at Bandelier? The Long House! These cliff dwellings were three to four stories tall. Here, you’ll see hundreds of petroglyphs, or carved drawings. Painted Cave, which can be accessed from the Bandelier Visitor Center or the Dome Trailhead, is a great place to observe even more of these illustrations.

In a valuable lesson about protecting species, the National Park Service booklet discusses animals that used to live amongst the Ancestral Pueblo people but can no longer be found in the park today. The booklet asks children which species they believe could be reintroduced to the park, as well as what they can do to help keep other species from disappearing from their original habitat.

We’re impressed with how much you were able to see at the park! Now that we have finished exploring for today, let’s head back to the visitor center and give the booklet to a Ranger to complete your challenge.

Awesome work. We hope you enjoyed getting a taste of life as an Ancestral Pueblo person as well as learning about the importance of protecting and respecting places we visit, especially ones with rich culture and relics that we want to keep safe. Summer is just getting started, and so are we. We can’t wait to take you to our next destination. Keep following along!

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Cat Goergen is the PR Specialist in GPO’s Public Relations office.

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Posted by Trudy Hawkins

GPO Summer Travel Series: A Visit to Death Valley

July 5, 2019

Summer is heating up, and it’s about to get even hotter. Located near the border of California and Nevada in the Great Basin, this next stop in our summer travel series is the hottest place on Earth. On July 10, 1913, the temperature in this National Park was 134°F. Fill up your jugs of water, strap on your hiking boots, and pack your water misting fans. Summer travelers, we hope you’re ready for Death Valley National Park in Inyo County, California!

Death Valley National Park Visitor Guide from the National Park Service (NPS) offers up all the knowledge you need to know to plan a wickedly awesome adventure. Safety first! This guide provides essential information on Death Valley Invasive Burros. The invasive burros in the park today are the descendants of animals introduced into the environment by humans over the last 150 years. They can be mean and aggressive, especially when defending their young. Before our trip, it’s crucial that we all read this guide for what to do if we see an invasive burro. Another important aspect of our trip to read up on is safety and park rules. With these temperatures, it’s essential that you drink at least one gallon of water per day. If you start to feel dizzy, nauseous or have a headache, step away from the sun and drink plenty of water. You might even want to bring extra water and a towel to make a cold compress if necessary.

Did you know that GPS devices will steer you to take “shortcuts” over the desert and into canyons? When you’re out hiking Death Valley, don’t rely on technology to get you around! Remember, we will be in the middle of the desert, so assume cell service will be spotty. These are just a few safety tips. Check out the Visitor Guide for them all. Okay, now it’s on to the fun stuff! You might not have liked your early wake-up call, but there is a reason we got to the park so early. We’re going to Zabriskie Point, known for its golden badlands, to see the sunrise. Next, we’ll hit Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and Artists Drive, which the guide describes as “a scenic loop drive through multi-hued hills.” If you’re feeling up for a long adventure, you might check out Ubehebe Crater. This breathtaking site was created hundreds of years ago after a volcanic explosion mixed with an underground spring to form a 600-foot crater.

So little time, so much to do! Read the do-not-miss list in the guide to get suggestions on other must-see spots at the park. The sun is finally going down, and we cannot wait to catch a view of the Death Valley night sky at The Harmony Borax Works, which has a mule cart, a neat backdrop for night photography. Did you know Death Valley has one of the darkest skies in the United States? Bring some snacks for stargazing – we plan on oohing and aahing for at least 30 minutes. According to the visitor’s guide, it takes about 30 minutes for your eyes to adjust to being able to see the most stars. And we want to see them all!

With Death Valley National Park Junior Ranger Adventure in tow, little ones who visit Death Valley can become an Official Junior Ranger. This booklet guides you through what to pack for your adventure to Death Valley. It also offers a map for kids to circle the places they have visited at the park. As they explore the park, kids can play Junior Ranger Bingo, marking spots for completing tasks like finding a plant on the dunes, spotting a cactus, and recording the temperature. Other activities in the booklet include creating a desert animal, exploring the night sky, and telling tall tales like Death Valley Scotty. This storyteller became famous for suggesting he had found gold in Death Valley. People frequented his castle to hear his stories about Death Valley and find out if they could strike it rich there. Scotty’s Castle is currently closed, but reopening to the public in 2020. When you’re all finished at the park, head to a visitor center or ranger station in Death Valley National Park. Show a ranger the book and tell them all about your adventure. Then your little ranger will be sworn in as an official Junior Ranger and get a badge. For being the hottest place on Earth, that’s pretty cool!

With views of dunes and rainbow canyons, Death Valley is one of the most spectacular sites we may have ever seen. We’re so glad you brought along plenty of water to stay hydrated enough to enjoy the activities. See you next time, travelers!

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Cat Goergen is the PR Specialist in GPO’s Public Relations office.

Images courtesy of NPS.

 

2 Comments | Department of the Interior, National Park Service, National Park Service, Travel and Tourism | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

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