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To learn more about Muir Woods and this collection, read our Notes from the National Parks Vagabond, Valerie Naylor
President Roosevelt thanks William Kent for his donation of Redwood Canyon to the government, to be used as a park for the preservation of redwood trees. The park will be named Muir National Monument. Roosevelt believes that Kent has “conferred a great and lasting benefit upon the whole country.”
1908-01-22
William Kent thanks President Roosevelt for his message of appreciation and hopes Roosevelt knows Kent will “attempt to save more of the precious and vanishing glories of nature.” Kent appreciates Roosevelt’s suggestion to change the name of the park but cannot accept it. Kent tells Roosevelt that he has five “good husky boys” who will carry on the family name, and if they cannot keep it alive, he is willing to let it be forgotten. Kent sends Roosevelt several photographs of Muir Woods.
1908-01-30
President Roosevelt agrees with William Kent that it is enough to do the deed without seeking recognition. Roosevelt writes that is good for him and for his sons; Roosevelt hopes that his sons will do the same by his name.
1908-02-05
President Harding proclaims that the land donated by William and Elizabeth Thatcher Kent in Marin County, California, will be added to Muir Woods National Monument pursuant to the Antiquities Act of 1906. The proclamation describes the boundaries of the addition and states that the land is significant due to its extensive redwood trees.
1921-09-22