Let Weir Farm Inspire You on 99th Birthday of National Park Service

The National Park Service turns 99 years old today, Aug. 25, and Weir Farm National Historic Site is inviting visitors to join the party and stop by Wilton’s local national park anytime this month.

In preparation for 2016’s year long centennial celebration, the National Park Service is encouraging the public to “Find Your Park.” Get started by following their fun list of 99 ways to Find Your Park. Weir Farm National Historic Site is a great place to try #9 – walk through the doorway of a historic home, #23 – try something new, #31 – make art in a park, #51 – Hit Record, #53 – Improve your health with a park Rx, and many more! Visitors can share their park experiences with others by posting on social media with the hashtag #FindYourPark.

“Birthdays are a time to celebrate and we want you to know that your local national park is the place to join in on the fun,” says Weir Farm National Historic Site superintendent Linda Cook. “Weir Farm National Historic Site offers something so completely unique, so totally inspiring, and I invite you to start your #FindYourPark journey right here in Connecticut.”

On August 25, 1916, President Woodrow Wilson signed legislation to create the National Park Service. Today, there are 408 national parks throughout the country and each one tells an important part of the American story. Some commemorate notable people and achievements, others conserve magnificent landscapes and natural wonders, and all provide a place to have fun and learn. And all national parks will offer free entrance for everyone on August 25, 2015.

Weir Farm National Historic Site was established in 1990 to preserve and share the famously inspiring light, color, and landscape that has inspired artists since 1882. Last year, more than 34,000 park visitors enjoyed the park, adding $2.6 million to the local economy and supporting 23 area jobs.

The mission of the National Park Service also extends beyond park boundaries. Community partnerships help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. To see what is happening in CT, visit the CT Park Service webpage.