The Roosevelt Arch

Photo: License:

The Roosevelt Arch is a rusticated triumphal arch at the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park in Gardiner, Montana. Constructed under the supervision of the US Army at Fort Yellowstone, its cornerstone was laid by President Theodore Roosevelt.

The top of the arch is inscribed with a quote from the Organic Act of 1872, the legislation which created Yellowstone, which reads: "For the Benefit and Enjoyment of the People".

Construction of the arch began on February 19, 1903, and was completed on August 15, 1903, at a cost of around $10,000. The archway was built at the north entrance, which was the first major entrance for Yellowstone.

President Roosevelt was visiting Yellowstone during construction and was asked to place the cornerstone for the arch, which then took his name. The cornerstone that Roosevelt laid covered a time capsule that contains a Holy Bible, a picture of Roosevelt, local newspapers, and other items.