Rediscover America’s incredible founding and first century of expansion with informative stories of the great events, founding documents, and inspirational leaders who played pivotal roles in the formation and evolution of our nation. 

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Discover how John Adams, an incredibly gifted man who always put his country first, made America a better place, and why it still matters today.

Adams National Historical Park in Quincy, Massachusetts is the original home of two American presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams, and subsequent generations of their descendants. The national historical park's eleven buildings tell the story of five generations of the Adams family (from 1720 to 1927), including their ideas, values, and achievements in public service, diplomacy, literature, and education. Adams and his descendants would go on to play leading roles in the American Revolution, the founding of the United States, and the development of American democracy. The Old House was the birthplace of John Adams in 1735 and the family home until 1800 when John Adams became the first president to live in the White House. The Stone Library is where John Quincy Adams wrote his diary (spanning from 1779 until 1848) and developed his extensive book collection, which is now considered one of the finest private collections in the world. Together with other historic sites, museums, archives, and libraries-the park helps tell the story of America's past and its continuing journey toward a more perfect union.

Adams NHP

The Inspiring Legacy of John Adams 

Find out how the British were able to take advantage of General Arthur St. Clair and the Continental Army’s precarious position at Fort Ticonderoga.

Adirondack Park spans over six million acres, making it the largest state park in the U.S. Unlike most state parks, about 52 percent of the land is privately owned inholdings. This breathtaking expanse boasts more than 10,000 lakes, 30,000 miles of rivers and streams, an estimated 200,000 acres of old-growth forests, and rugged mountains, including the iconic Adirondack High Peaks. The area is the historic home of the the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, also known as the Iroquois Confederacy, which consisted of several Native American nations, including the Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca, and Tuscarora. A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, the park offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping, boating, and wildlife observation. Part of New York’s Forest Preserve, which was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1963, the park also has a rich cultural heritage, with charming Adirondack-style architecture and small towns dotting the landscape. 

Adirondack Park

Fort Ticonderoga Falls to British

Discover how the Battle of Kings Mountain derailed Britain’s strategy to subdue the southern colonies, and why it still matters today.

In the summer of 1780, after a string of defeats, the American Revolution was not going well. Then, in October, came the Battle of Kings Mountain. Fought on October 7th, 1780, it was an important victory for the patriot cause. The Battle of Kings Mountain was the first major patriot victory to occur after the British invasion of Charleston, SC in May 1780. The park preserves the site of this important battle. Thomas Jefferson called it "The turn of the tide of success." The battle was a turning point in the war, and its significance is still commemorated at Kings Mountain National Military Park.

Kings Mountain

American Victory at King’s Mountain

Explore how western migration allowed our young nation to expand its boundaries and begin to harvest the region’s incredible riches.

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park borders three states Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia. The park is centered on the Cumberland Gap, a natural break in the Appalachian Mountains. Tri-State Peak is the highest point in the park at 1,990 feet, and offers fantastic views. Along the way, you'll pass a marker denoting the location as being on the "Royal Colonial Boundary of 1665," which the British established as the border between the Colony of Virginia and the Province of Carolina. The park covers 24,015 acres and includes three sections: the Hensley Settlement, the Pinnacle Overlook, and the Sequoya Birthplace. In addition to the historical significance of the area, Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is home to a variety of plant and animal life. Over 50 species of trees can be found in the park, as well as 85 species of shrubs and 150 species of herbs. The park is also home to white-tailed deer, wild turkey, black bear, bobcat, elk, and many other animals. There are 24 miles of hiking trails, including a section of the Appalachian Trail.

Cumberland Gap

Heading to Kentucky on the Wilderness Road 

Explore the harsh conditions faced by the Continental Army at Valley Forge, and why it still matters today.

Valley Forge is more than just a historical site – it's a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of the human spirit. In the winter of 1777-1778, the Continental Army camped at Valley Forge. The camp was located just outside of Philadelphia, and it quickly became clear that the area was ill-suited for such a large group of soldiers. The soldiers faced harsh conditions, including cold weather, scarce supplies and illness. Yet they persevered, continuing to fight for independence from British rule. Today, the park features 3,500 acres of monuments, meadows and woodlands commemorating the sacrifices and perseverance of the Revolutionary War generation. It is a reminder that, even in the darkest of times, people can pull together and overcome adversity. Valley Forge is a powerful symbol of hope and determination, and it serves as an inspiration for all who visit.

Valley Forge 

A Desperate Winter at Valley Forge

In the first major battle against the British, the American militia showed a grit and determination that impressed all.

The Boston National Historical Park is an association of sites that showcase Boston's role in the American Revolution and other parts of history. Seven of the eight sites are connected by the Freedom Trail, a walking tour of downtown Boston. All eight properties are National Historic Landmarks, some are only accessible by guided tour. Although many of the sites that make up the park date back to the colonial era, the park also includes later landmarks that commemorate more recent events such as the abolition of slavery and the desegregation of public schools. In addition to its historical significance, the Boston National Historical Park is a beautiful place to visit, with well-manicured gardens, stately buildings, and stunning views of the cityscape. Whether you're interested in learning about American history or simply want to enjoy a leisurely walk through one of Boston's most scenic neighborhoods, the Boston National Historical Park is a great way to experience the past and the present.

Boston NHP

The Battle of Bunker Hill

In 1774, the First Continental Congress brought together many influential leaders from colonial America; 56 men, including Washington and Adams. 

Independence National Historical Park is home to some of the most significant sites in American history and is known as America's Most Historic Square Mile. Among the sites are Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were both signed, and the Germantown White House, which was George Washington's country residence. The National Constitution Center is also located within the park, and it offers visitors a chance to learn more about the founding documents of the United States. Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial commemorates the life of a Polish general who played a key role in the American Revolution, and it provides a stunning view of Philadelphia's skyline. You can take some of the most important sites of our national heritage in a very small area.  

Independence NHP

A Historic Gathering at the First Continental Congress

The Articles of Confederation were the foundation for our nation’s first unified government. 

The Articles of Confederation

The Boston Massacre is a tragic affair that can be traced to the British Parliament’s passing of the Townshend Acts. 

The Boston Massacre

The Boston Tea Party was emblematic of the colonies’ resistance to British oppression. 

Site of the ringleaders of the Boston Tea Party, the Old South Meeting House is today a museum and symbolic beacon for freedom of speech. On Dec. 16, 1773, around 5,000 Massachusetts colonists gathered here to protest a British tax on tea. Negotiations went nowhere, so a group of men took action - hiding their identities under disguise, storming the harbor and tossing tea valued at over $1.5 million into the sea. The subsequent clampdown by British soldiers was a pivotal catalyst for the Revolutionary War.

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