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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.

1980
1980: Poster
A poster depicts Smokey Bear and other forest animals. It reads "remember you're among friends."
A poster depicts Smokey Bear and other forest animals. It reads "remember you're among friends."
1982
1982: Poster
Think Poster
Think Poster
1983
1983: Poster
Think Before You Strike
Think Before You Strike
1984
1984: Poster
A red poster featuring Smokey reads "close the book on forest fires."
A red poster featuring Smokey reads "close the book on forest fires."
1984: Poster
A poster depicting Smokey holding a cake for his 40th anniversary. The poster reads "Make Smokey's birthday wish come true."
A poster depicting Smokey holding a cake for his 40th anniversary. The poster reads "Make Smokey's birthday wish come true."
1985
1985: Poster
A poster featuring Smokey Bear reads "Only You!"
A poster featuring Smokey Bear reads "Only You!"
1987
1987: Poster
A poster depicting Smokey using binoculars to inspect a forest fire. It reads "only you can prevent forest fires."
A poster depicting Smokey using binoculars to inspect a forest fire. It reads "only you can prevent forest fires."