Logo History

1916

The first logo established, but was never formally recognized and left uncredited.

DID YOU KNOW?

The 1949 emblem designed by Dudley Bayliss was never actually used, but at least he got to keep his $50 winnings!

1949

Winning design by Dudley Bayliss (left) from the NPS Emblem Design Contest. Not long after, NPS historian Aubrey Neasham spoke with Director Newton Drury advising that the National Park Service logo needed to visually represent its main purpose, “...like an arrowhead, or a tree, or a buffalo.” He made a rough sketch (right) and sent a note to Director Drury saying, “This may be the germ of an idea for a NPS emblem...a good artist may do something with it.”

1951 & 1954

After receiving the idea from historian Aubrey Neasham, the official emblem was in development. The arrowhead has been considered the official logo of the National Park Service since 1951. It was designed by Herbert Maier and his team under the guidance of the new Director Conrad Wirth. Slight revisions were made and more details were added in later years. It began being used on plaques, brochures and patches on uniforms.

1962

The arrowhead trademark became officially designated as the symbol to represent the National Park Service

LOGO HISTORY

CURRENT LOGO (2000)

The current logo of NPS was established in 2000. The elements of the logo refer to what makes up the national park system. The Sequoia tree and bison symbolize nature and wildlife while the mountains and water represent scenic and recreational values. Lastly, the iconic arrowhead represents the history of the National Park Service.

Our mission is to protect and reintroduce America's natural and cultural resources by making it accessible for all to actively explore, enjoy, and discover.