On October 6, 2024, Teton Science Schools will host the Murie Spirit of Conservation Wilderness Celebration, at the Murie Ranch, a special event marking the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Wilderness Act. From 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, the community is invited to join in honoring the legacy of Olaus and Mardy Murie, who played a pivotal role in the creation of this landmark legislation. This free, fall-themed celebration will feature self-guided tours, live music, and food.
This year’s Murie Spirit of Conservation is a celebration of 60 years of the Wilderness Act. Rather than honoring an individual, the focus will be on honoring the efforts that led to this transformative legislation and the Murie family’s pivotal role in its creation. It is especially fitting to recognize the act’s profound and lasting impact on conservation while continuing to draw inspiration from the Murie’s enduring contributions.
The Wilderness Act stands as one of the most significant pieces of conservation legislation in American history. Signed into law on September 3, 1964, by President Lyndon B. Johnson, the act initially protected 54 wilderness areas across 13 states, including the local Bridger Wilderness, Teton Wilderness, Washakie Wilderness, and North Absaroka Wilderness. Over the past six decades, the National Wilderness Preservation System has expanded to safeguard over 800 wilderness areas, covering nearly 112 million acres across the U.S.
Olaus and Mardy Murie were instrumental in shaping this act, dedicating their lives to ensuring that future generations could experience America’s untouched landscapes. Their tireless advocacy and leadership in the conservation movement helped lay the foundation for the protections the Wilderness Act offers today.
Located in Grand Teton National Park, the Murie Ranch was the home and headquarters of Olaus and Mardy Murie, where key conservation decisions were made. It remains a hub for environmental education and inspiration as a National Historic Landmark District. Today, Teton Science Schools stewards the Ranch, continuing to honor the Murie legacy by educating and inspiring future stewards of wild places.
As we celebrate this anniversary, we are reminded of the responsibility to carry forward the Muries’ dedication to wilderness preservation. We invite the community to join us at the Murie Spirit of Conservation Wilderness Celebration—a chance to connect with the Murie legacy, experience the beauty of the Ranch, and honor the vital work of Olaus and Mardy Murie. It will be a day to reflect, celebrate, and find inspiration in the wild places we all cherish.
The Murie Spirit of Conservation Wilderness Celebration is the first in a series of events honoring both the Wilderness Act and the Muries. Teton Science Schools will continue the celebration throughout the year, with a Fireside Open Mic in November, offering an intimate setting for the community to share stories and reflections on wilderness and the Murie legacy. In December, the festivities will conclude with the beloved Annual Murie Cookie Swap, a tradition that brings the community together. Stay tuned for more details!
Join us at the Murie Ranch to reflect on the impact of the Wilderness Act and celebrate a legacy that has safeguarded our nation’s natural wonders for six decades and beyond. The very porch where Howard Zahniser wrote the first draft of the Wilderness Act while house-sitting for Mardy and Olaus Murie is open for you to experience. We encourage you to come hang out on this iconic porch during this special anniversary year! Whether you’re connecting with friends and community members on a crisp fall day in the park, or simply soaking in the history and beauty, what could be better?
