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Story of Smokey

Explore Smokey Bear’s History

Smokey Bear leans on his mailbox and reads a letter.

Since 1944, Smokey’s been working hard to inspire Americans to prevent wildfires. Follow his history here through memorabilia and print, radio and TV messages.

1947
1947: U.S. & State Forest Services Stamp
Poster reads "Prevent forest fires! Put your pipe ashes in bare earth."
1948
1948: U.S. & State Forest Services Stamp
A stamp of Smokey Bear praying saying "...and please make people careful, amen."