Yosemite National Park, Mariposa Grove

Today in 1864, President Lincoln signed the Yosemite Grant Act, dedicating Yosemite Valley and Mariposa Big Tree Grove for public use and preserving the wilderness area from development. The Act was the precursor to the National Parks System.

The Ahwahneechee Indian tribe used to live in the Yosemite Valley until they were killed or driven out, beginning in 1850, but continuing in 1906 when the park was created, and afterwards in 1929, and as late as 1969. 

And yes, that’s me a few years back.