Uncommon Goods | National Parks History By Mail | History

National Parks History By Mail

Created by Ari Siegel

Gift months of meticulous replicas of field notes, sketches, letters, and more from the legendary figures behind our national parks.

$42.00 - $74.00

Delivery dates vary, select an item for an arrival estimate

Independent Maker

Made in USA

Eco-Friendly

What Makes It Uncommon

In the words of novelist Wallace Stegner, America’s national parks are the best idea we ever had, so it’s no wonder that their backstories feature appearances from some of the country’s most renowned naturalists, politicians, and artists. This captivating subscription series delivers detailed replicas of real sketches, field notes, letters, and photos from some of the legendary figures—including Ansel Adams and Theodore Roosevelt—whose names are forever linked with the history of our national parks.

  • 6-month subscription.
  • Each month, your giftee will receive meticulous (and display-worthy) reproductions of real historical documents related to one or more of our national parks.
  • Accompanying context pages provide fascinating insight into the materials and park history.
  • The first mailing arrives via UPS to ensure swift delivery, and the following mailings arrive by USPS First Class Mail.
  • Designed and printed in Illinois.

Giving this as a gift? Download and email, or print and give this card to your recipient to let them know their subscription is on the way.

created by

Ari Siegel

Ari Siegel has always loved how history comes alive when you approach it right. He grew up listening to stories from his WWII-veteran grandfathers, went on to work at the US Capitol, where he gave tours to guests, then gained an even deeper appreciation when he started checking out historical documents at the Library of Congress archives. With History by Mail, he hopes to share the excitement of holding something meaningful about our nation’s past in your own hands.

This item ships directly from the maker. If you order today your item will ship no later than 7/25/2025.

Items that are made to order or oversized can't be sent in a Gift Box. Instead, you can include your Gift Message on the shipment's packing slip.  At this time, this item cannot be shipped to APO/FPO addresses, P.O. Boxes, or to U.S. Territories including Minor Outlyling Islands. Contact custom@uncommongoods.com with any questions.

This item is not available to ship outside of the U.S. See International FAQ for more info.

Made from

recycled paper

Measurements

8.5" L x 11" W x .01" H

Care

Lay flat, keep dry .

Notes

Your first document will be mailed a week after placing an order. The subsequent documents will be mailed on the 15th of each month.

For subsequent months, you will receive a monthly envelope containing a replica of a historical document. While the first letter in the series has been delivered via UPS to ensure swift delivery after purchase, each of the subsequent letters will be mailed via United States Postal Service First Class Mail.

Please Note: Letters that have already shipped are not subject to return. If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, you can cancel your subscription at any time for a refund on the months you have not yet received.

Item ID

59733

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  • 5 stars out of 5

    This is the second History by Mail purchase I've made, and it makes su…

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    • Northampton MA

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  • 5 stars out of 5

    This was a gift for my boyfriend who has shared with me a goal to visi…

    • ML
    • Undisclosed

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  • 5 stars out of 5

    Gift for my brother who has everything and loves to learn. He has rece…

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  • 5 stars out of 5
  • C
  • verified reviewer
  • Northampton MA

Keep em comin!

This is the second History by Mail purchase I've made, and it makes such a fantastic gift! I will likely continue to purchase more in other series.

  • 5 stars out of 5
  • ML
  • verified reviewer
  • Undisclosed

Amazing Opportunity to Learn

This was a gift for my boyfriend who has shared with me a goal to visit every national park. We have spent so much time reading and learning about the parks, with this the information is so much more tangible and exciting. It really is amazing to feel like a part of history is still available and accessible! This is an amazing gift for those who love the parks or history itself!

  • 5 stars out of 5
  • Deezer
  • verified reviewer
  • Kansas City

Perfect Gift for the Curious

Gift for my brother who has everything and loves to learn. He has received the first installment and is thrilled. He lives an hour from Yellowstone (subject of his first packet) and knows a lot about the park, but still learned a lot he hadn't known. Fun, unique gift.

  • 5 stars out of 5
  • Yosemite David
  • verified reviewer
  • Yosemite NTPK

Really unique gift

My best friend recently became a naturalist guide in Yosemite NTPK, so this is going to bring him so much unexpected joy. It's right up his alley!

  • 5 stars out of 5
  • AL
  • Glenview IL

Showstopper!

I was excited about this gift as my dad loves history and the outdoors, but I did not know what to expect. The first document is truly a showstopper, and I cannot believe how gorgeous it is! The attention to detail is incredible, and the quality is insane. I feel like I am holding an actual pamphlet from the 1800s, but in pristine quality as if I traveled back in time. It's truly gorgeous and fascinating. I can't wait to see what the other documents have in store!

  • NC

Is this a recurring charge?

Verified reply from Jen

Nope, you pay once for the 6 month subscription!

  • undisclosed

Hi, is it possible to send the first letter to a different address than all the rest?

Verified reply from Jen

Yes that is possible, just remember letters go to print 2 weeks before the mailing, requests must be received by the 25th of every month.

  • undisclosed

Which parks are in this collection?

Verified reply from Dayle-Marie

Hey there! The vendor does NOT provide a list of letters. They do not want customers to know in advance what is inside the subscription, just like newspaper or magazine subscriptions do not reveal in advance what customers will receive.

This gift is great for ...

  • Nature Lovers Who Appreciate History

  • History Buffs Who Love Adventure

  • Gift Givers Who Value Unique Experiences

  • Outdoor Enthusiasts Who Enjoy Learning

Our gifting team recommends this delightful subscription as an excellent choice for both men and women who have a penchant for history and the great outdoors. Uncommon Goods offers a vast selection of products catering to a wide array of interests. If you're looking for something truly special, dive into our collection of gifts that match unique interests and find the perfect present for any occasion.

For those who fancy a deep dive into the wonders of nature and history, this subscription provides a rich narrative experience. It's a wonderful way to treat someone to an adventure through time. Explore our curated collections for more inspiring gift ideas, and don't miss our range of gifts for men and gifts for women to discover thoughtful presents that are sure to impress.