Mississippi River Recreation Area named one of top 10 parks

The National Park Service has named the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area one of "10 National Parks That Reflect the American Spirit."

"Each of our country's 417 national parks tells a chapter of the American story. Each has a compelling tale of innovation, ingenuity, adventure, accomplishment, triumph or tragedy that is part of our collective identity," according to Michael T. Reynolds, National Park Service director.

The Park Service describes the Mississippi River park as "a lifeline for American settlers and it remains an integral part of our country's identity. The Mighty Mississippi is a nationally significant resource for its natural, cultural, historic, scenic, recreational, economic and scientific features."

"It's very exciting to see us with this group of parks," said John Anfinson, superintendent of the recreation area.

Yellowstone National Park was the first national park, established in 1872, and is part of this list. The remaining parks are:

• Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine (Baltimore)

• Golden Spike National Historic Site (Promontory Summit, near Brigham City, Utah)

• Independence National Historical Park (Philadelphia)

• Lowell National Historical Park (Lowell, Mass.)

• New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park (New Orleans)

• Rosie the Riveter/WWII Home Front National Historical Park (Richmond, Calif.)