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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.

1971
1971: Smokey Bear Poster
A poster of Smokey breaking a large match over his knee reads "Smokey's friends don't play with matches."
A poster of Smokey breaking a large match over his knee reads "Smokey's friends don't play with matches."
1971: Smokey Bear Poster
1974
1974: Poster
A poster of Smokey reads "Think."
A poster of Smokey reads "Think."
1975
1975: Poster
A poster depicting Smokey tipping his hat reads "Thanks for listening."
A poster depicting Smokey tipping his hat reads "Thanks for listening."
1976
1976: Poster
A poster featuring Smokey reads "It's a grand old forest, too! Be careful."
A poster featuring Smokey reads "It's a grand old forest, too! Be careful."
1978
1978: Poster
A poster of Smokey reads "If not you, who?"
A poster of Smokey reads "If not you, who?"