The National Park Service arrowhead was authorized as its official emblem on July 20, 1951.
The emblem combines several symbols associated with the National Park System. A sequoia tree and bison represent vegetation and wildlife, while mountains and water suggest scenic and recreational resources. The arrowhead itself represents historical and archaeological values.
The design was authorized by Secretary of the Interior Oscar L. Chapman during Arthur Demaray’s time as NPS director. It was probably first used on an informational folder for Oregon Caves National Monument in April 1952.
The emblem’s official status is sometimes confused with its later legal protection. A 1962 Federal Register notice designated the arrowhead as the official NPS symbol and restricted unauthorized commercial uses. The 1951 authorization, however, is the key date for its adoption.