Mission 66 - Yellowstone National Park
Posted by: 
Volcanoguy
N 44° 44.083 W 110° 29.478
12T E 540277 N 4953607
A history sign if front of the Canyon Visitor Education Center at Canyon Junction in Yellowstone National Park.
Waymark Code: WMDCAD
Location: Wyoming, United States
Date Posted: 12/23/2011
Views: 6
“In the late 1950s, Canyon Village was created near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. Its design and construction showcased a then modern-day plan to host a growing number of travelers.
Following World War II, Americans longed for scenic vistas and the freedom of the open road. In record numbers, people took to the highways on carefree trips with family and friends. National parks were popular destinations, and affordable accommodations were in demand.
In response, the National Park Service embarked on a ten-year program known as Mission 66 to upgrade public facilities. Campgrounds and picnic areas were improved. Lodges, stores, and gas stations were built. Roads were upgraded to accommodate the increasing number of motor vehicles. Visitor centers, a new concept, were created to provide easily accessible information, orientation, and education. Started in parks across the country in 1956, Mission 66 was targeted for completion by 1966 -- the 50th anniversary of the National Park Service.
In 1958, park rangers opened the Canyon Visitor Center doors for the first full season. This Mission 66 facility was at the heart of visitor services in the Canyon area for nearly five decades.”
Marker Name: Mission 66 - A Decade of Modernization
Marker Type: Rural Roadside
Group Responsible for Placement: National Park Service
Web link(s) for additional information: [Web Link]
Addtional Information: Not listed
Date Dedicated: Not listed
Marker Number: Not listed
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Visit Instructions:
Please post a photo of you OR your GPS at the marker location. Also if you know of any additional links not already mentioned about this bit of Wyoming history please include that in your log.