A National Memorial refers to a designated site that commemorates a significant event, person, or historical period of national importance in the United States. These memorials are managed and protected by the National Park Service (NPS), a federal agency responsible for overseeing the country's national parks and other protected areas.
National Memorials are established through legislation passed by the United States Congress and can be found in various forms, including monuments, statues, buildings, landscapes, or archaeological sites. They serve as a means to preserve and interpret important aspects of American history, culture, and heritage.
Unlike national parks, which are primarily focused on preserving natural landscapes, national memorials often emphasize historical and cultural significance. They provide opportunities for visitors to learn about and reflect upon significant events, influential individuals, or profound societal changes that have shaped the nation's identity.
Examples of National Memorials within the National Park System include the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., honoring President Abraham Lincoln; the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, also in Washington, D.C., commemorating the civil rights leader; and the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C., dedicated to the soldiers and civilians who served during World War II.
There are 42 parks designated as National Memorial: