March 1

1872 On March 1, 1872, President Grant signed the act which set aside Yellowstone Park "for benefit and enjoyment of the people," thereby the first national park as such in the world.

1898 On February 22, 1897, President Cleveland signed a presidential proclamation creating the Forest Reserves. It became effective March 1, 1898. Preserves created through the proclamation were Black Hills, Teton, and Big Horn—all of which would become National Forests.