U.S. Forest Service Design History (1905 → Present)
The U.S. Forest Service shield, first introduced in the early 20th century, distilled the agency's conservation mission into a sturdy, instantly recognizable emblem. Over time, the Forest Service expanded this visual language across signs, uniforms, ranger vehicles, and public education materials, creating one of the longest-standing design traditions in the federal government.
U.S. Forest Service Design History (1905 → Present)
The U.S. Forest Service shield, first introduced in the early 20th century, distilled the agency's conservation mission into a sturdy, instantly recognizable emblem. Over time, the Forest Service expanded this visual language across signs, uniforms, ranger vehicles, and public education materials, creating one of the longest-standing design traditions in the federal government.
Hand drawn map, 1949
Herb Heinle, preparing to lay out forest entrance sign, 1951
Informational graphic, 1939
Man in vehicle of fire patrol forest service on railroad tracks in 1910
National Forest Service Jacket by Filson
Smokey Bear Campaign from 1952
Father and Son at the National Forest entrance sign at Bessey Nursery. Taken by Bluford W. Muir - August, 1957
Forest Trail Handbook, 1935
Sign damaged by thrown rocks. Taken by Daniel O. Todd, August, 1957
