Yes, Hot Springs is older than Yellowstone.
Hot Springs National Park, located in Arkansas, holds the distinction of being recognized as a protected federal area significantly before Yellowstone National Park was established. This makes it a pioneering example of conservation in the United States.
The Designation of Hot Springs
In 1832, President Andrew Jackson took the momentous step of designating the Hot Springs area as the first federal reservation. This crucial action aimed to preserve the thermal springs for public use and enjoyment, acknowledging their unique natural value and the therapeutic benefits attributed to their waters. At its core, the Hot Springs Reservation served as America's inaugural effort to protect a natural wonder for its citizens, effectively functioning as the precursor to what we now understand as a national park.
Yellowstone's Establishment
Yellowstone National Park, celebrated as the world's first national park, was established on March 1, 1872. While Yellowstone holds the title of the first national park as we define it today, the Hot Springs Reservation preceded its creation by four decades.
To illustrate the timeline, consider the following comparison:
| Protected Area | Date of Designation / Establishment | Type of Designation |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Springs Reservation | 1832 | First Federal Reservation |
| Yellowstone National Park | 1872 | First National Park |
This timeline clearly shows that the federal protection of Hot Springs predates Yellowstone by 40 years. It was not until 1921 that the Hot Springs Reservation was officially re-designated as Hot Springs National Park, aligning it with the National Park Service system that Yellowstone helped to define.
Historical Context and Significance
The early designation of Hot Springs highlights a foundational period in American conservation history. It demonstrates an early recognition of the need to preserve natural resources for public benefit. While Yellowstone became the model for national parks worldwide, Hot Springs laid essential groundwork for federal land protection.
- Hot Springs: Established as a federal reservation to protect thermal springs for public use. It focused on the benefits of the water, leading to the development of bathhouses and a health resort. Learn more about the history of Hot Springs National Park.
- Yellowstone: Established to preserve its unique geothermal features, vast wilderness, and wildlife. Its designation created a new category of protected land, inspiring a global movement. Explore the story of Yellowstone National Park.
The legacy of Hot Springs as the "first federal reservation" underscores its unique place in the lineage of America's protected lands, preceding the formal establishment of the National Park System.
