Gov. Wendell Anderson (seated third from left) and former governors Harold LeVander, Elmer L. Andersen, and Karl Rolvaag gather to celebrate the passage of the Voyageurs National Park bill in 1971.

On January 8, 1971, President Richard Nixon signed legislation authorizing the establishment of the country’s 36th national park, Voyageurs, in northern Minnesota. The drive to create Voyageurs had begun in earnest in 1962. Its ultimate success was due in large part to the efforts of dedicated environmentalists like Ernest Oberholtzer. In his signing statement, Nixon graciously acknowledged the role that the environmental movement played in the park’s creation.

The uniquely scenic and historic Voyageurs National Park, stands as a monument forever to the dedicated citizens and conservation organizations whose vision, ingenuity and courage match the splendor of this superlative wilderness area. Rich in the history of the early, exciting exploration of our great country, Voyageurs will serve as a living legacy linking generation to generation and century to century.

The park was officially established in 1975.

Voyageurs National Park, mid 1970s

Images via Minnesota Historical Society