GFWC clubs support parks system

When our GFWC Book Lovers Study Club met recently, we focused on something that belongs to all Americans — the National Park Service.

Patricia Cox, chairman of the Environment Community Service Program, presented the program.

President Ulysses S. Grant established Yellowstone National Park on March 1, 1872, creating the world’s first national park.

Stephen Mather and Horace Albright established the National Park Service on Aug. 25, 1916, to oversee and protect these public lands.

Wallace Stegner described the parks as “the best idea we ever had.”

Conservation leaders such as John Muir influenced President Theodore Roosevelt and shaped the national conservation movement.

Congress passed the Antiquities Act of 1906 and gave presidents authority to protect federal lands as national monuments.

Roosevelt later said: “There is nothing as American as our national parks. The fundamental idea behind the parks is that the country belongs to the people.”

Mary Belle King Sherman, international president of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, advanced the conservation movement during the early 20th century. From 1914 to 1920, she served as GFWC Conservation chairman and encouraged clubwomen across the country to write letters and advocate for preservation. Her leadership strengthened support for the creation of the National Park Service in 1916.

Sherman also promoted the development of additional parks and encouraged nature study in schools. She later served in leadership roles within national conservation organizations.

As members of GFWC today, we take pride in that legacy.

Congress has designated 63 national parks. The broader National Park System now includes more than 400 sites, including monuments, battlefields and historic locations.

Public lands give families places to learn, explore and experience the beauty of our country.

During our meeting, Cox shared information about Alabama’s “Great Nine” National Park Service sites and encouraged members to visit them. Many sites offer Junior Ranger programs and educational opportunities for children.

If earlier generations had not protected these lands, many of them might look very different today. We must continue to value and preserve them for those who come after us.

Our club donated $25 to the Plant a Billion Trees project in support of conservation efforts.

We also discussed the America the Beautiful senior pass for citizens age 62 and older.

Book Lovers’ President Gayle McAlister reported that the club donated $75 to Heifer International, which supports farmers in north Alabama and other parts of the world.

She also reported that the club submitted its 2025-26 project reports to GFWC Alabama Headquarters ahead of the February deadline. The state convention will present awards.

Sheila Upchurch and Donita Abston served as hostesses for the February meeting. In recognition of American Heart Month, members wore red.

Book Lovers held its Bean Day fundraiser Feb. 20 and the event drew strong support. The club will use the proceeds for community projects.