Interpreting interpretation

As you begin to brouse through these beautiful publications of National Parks and other public lands, you will undoubtedly experience "Interpretation"

Disguised Textbooks

When you physically visit the National Parks and other public lands you also will experience "Interpretation". The park people you meet who explain what you see; the signs you read that help you understand the books and information packets that give you in-depth knowledge of each location; these are all examples of "Interpretation."

The entire purpose of our publishing house is to explain The Story Behind the Scenery. Interpretation is the art of presenting a colorful interesting and accurate, story of what these area are all about.

In ancient time each culture, each tribe, each clan had a designated story teller. It was their job to know the true facts and pass them on to the next generation in an informative way without altering or embellishing the story.

. . . . . . . This is at the root of interpretation.

Today, men and women have careers in the field of scenic, historic, and scientific interpretation-- or publishing.

Most people don't go to a park to hear a lecture or study history. You go to have a pleasant experience and get away. Once there you find a "swamp tromp" or a forest hike to be just that -- a pleasant get-away experience. But, at the same time, just maybe you receive a greater understanding from the experience. Learning can be fun and relaxing. Professional Interpreters make learning invisible.

Once again . . . . disguised textbooks. A textbooks in a ranger's knowledge. A textbook in an informative sign. A textbook in a beautiful book with serious, informative text that is easy to read.

Interpretation at our National Parks was important as far back as the '20's when nature walks started at Yosemite. In the '40's, Freeman Tilden, a private citizen, helped to establish interpretation as an experience, relating the importance of national Parks to the park visitor. Through his work, the necessary skills were enhanced; and this important work was developed into a profession.

Interpretation is an art form. You see these people using inventive and creative ways of explaining each site in unique ways. Their work is often tailored to the young school groups or to our International visitors. At our parks, Interpreters translate the environment, the culture, and the history of each area. They are the people who proudly serve to help you enjoy and understand these significant places.

So, enjoy your experience within the pages of our publications. Appreciate this wonderful unblemished world--whether you are able to visit personally or you "visit" vicariously through our pages. It has been said that the National Park System is America’s greatest gift to the entire World.

Interpretation

America’s Story Telling

Enjoy and appreciate