The history of 4-H is one of the most significant and far-reaching stories in America: a story of youth education, community pride and responsibility, personal leadership, and volunteerism. Truly unique – born at the grassroots level and involving special public-private partnerships at the local, state and national levels – it represents the very essence of America’s growth.
Over a century since it began, 4-H continues to thrive and expand today as one of America’s foremost youth development initiatives. While constantly continuing to change in support of the evolving needs of young people today, most of the original concepts and philosophies – the proven strengths – remain unchanged.
There is no better guide toward our future than to learn from and build upon our past. The primary purpose of this 4-H History Preservation website is to provide a central resource on 4-H history, particularly at the national level.