The great Outer Beach described by Thoreau in the 1800s has been protected since 1961, when President Kennedy signed legislation establishing Cape Cod National Seashore. Forty miles of pristine sandy beach, marshes, ponds, and upland forests support diverse species of plants and animals. Lighthouses, cultural landscapes, and wild cranberry bogs offer a glimpse of Cape Cod's past and continuing ways of life. Swimming beaches, waterways, and walking and biking trails provide recreational opportunities for today's visitors.

When President Kennedy signed legislation authorizing the establishment of the National Seashore on August 7, 1961, he mentioned how significant it was to "preserve the natural and historic values of a portion of Cape Cod for the inspiration and enjoyment of people all over the United States." The Berkshire Eagle of Pittsfield editorialized that the bill ".can probably be labeled the finest victory ever recorded for the cause of conservation in New England."

"The designation of Cape Cod as a National Seashore by President Kennedy was a gift to all the American people," said Superintendent George Price. "This milestone provides an opportunity for all who love this special place to reflect on where we've been and to commit to what we collectively hope to achieve to ensure that the values of the National Seashore are protected and appreciated in perpetuity."

Staff and partners at Cape Cod National Seashore are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the National Seashore's establishment. Several celebratory activities are planned for 2011. Events during the year will build towards the actual anniversary event, which will be held on August 7.

In spring, new permanent exhibits at Salt Pond Visitor Center will be dedicated. When Old Harbor Life-Saving Station opens in May it will be furnished much as it was in 1900, thanks to an on-going fundraising campaign by Friends of the Cape Cod National Seashore. During summer "retro" programs, park visitors, and neighbors will step back in time for a look at the kinds of ranger-led programs that were offered in 1963.

The National Seashore's education partner, Eastern National, has developed several interpretive items that are available at Salt Pond and Province Lands bookstores. Look for pins and patches, decals, and drinking glasses. Many of the commemorative anniversary items will feature the official logo designed by Joe Fish of Eastham. A 2010 graduate of Nauset Regional High School, Fish's logo was selected from a field of 15 submissions presented by advanced art students at Nauset High.

Anniversary activities will be posted to the Cape Cod National Seashore website, www.nps.gov/caco.

Print a schedule of 50th anniversary events

(Courtesy of National Park Service, US Department of the Interior)