While Civil War ideas simmered in the east, a few influential men took notice as signs emerged of a ruination of California's Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove. It wasn't long until a bill was introduced by California's John Coness, that breezed through the U.S. Congress and deeded Yosemite land to the State of California. The paperwork, converting the valley into park land, was the beginning of a long struggle. The real challenge began with evicting homesteaders and thwarting the common practice of using Yosemite valley as a free range.
     This enchanting scene, as Bridalveil Falls peaks out of the mist, is one of the marvels of Yosemite Valley that was eventually converted into a national park. Thanks to the vision and persuasive powers of Thomas Starr King, Frederick Law Olmsted, Josiah Whitney and John Muir, Yosemite has strived to retained its natural look for all the world to enjoy.