All Executive Orders
Superseded

Preservation of American Antiquities

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: April 2026
Theodore Roosevelt
September 24, 1906

Summary

Under the Antiquities Act of 1906, Roosevelt used executive authority to designate Devils Tower as the first national monument. He would go on to create 18 national monuments, establishing a precedent for presidential conservation that endures today.

Topics

conservationnational monumentsAntiquities Actpublic lands

This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.