The mysterious cliff dwelling known as Montezuma Castle has overlooked Arizona's Verde Valley for over 900 years. Originally thought to have been built by the ancient Aztecs, later research proved it to be the handiwork of a long-vanished people named the Sinagua. They inhabited the site for over three centuries and then simply walked away to be lost in the mists of time. In this volume, the author traces the history of Montezuma Castle through its construction, abandonment, later discovery, and the diligent efforts of many individuals and organizations to restore and preserve it for future generations. In 1906, Montezuma Castle was designated one of the country's first national monuments by Pres. Theodore Roosevelt. Arizona was still a territory at that time, six years away from becoming the 48th state in the Union.

Sparked by the opportunity to explore his personal passions, David Kroese turns away from a rewarding yet languishing career and begins the adventure of a lifetime. What happens next evolves into a tour of all four hundred-plus units in America's National Park System -- a perfect way to celebrate the 2016 National Park Service centennial. The Centennial: A Journey Through America's National Park System details David's compelling centennial explorations to 387 parks in 360 days. The story continues through December 2017, when he becomes one of fewer than fifty people known to have visited all 417 national parks. His personal expedition is a poignant exploration into quintessential America as told through its historical and natural wonders. Delve into diverse locations from Hawaii to the Rockies, New England to the Caribbean, Charleston to the California desert, Alaska to American Samoa. Join David and experience the inherent marvels within America's unique landscape and fascinating history, revealed in engaging context, poetic descriptions, and heartfelt appreciation. The Centennial: A Journey Through America's National Park System is an odyssey of self discovery and fulfillment through the nation's soul.