Historical Marker

Civilian Conservation Corps


  A brief timeline of the history of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC)
  • March 31, 1933: President Franklin D. Roosevelt signs the Emergency Conservation Work (ECW) Act into law, establishing the Civilian Conservation Corps as part of his New Deal program.
  • April 5, 1933: The CCC is officially launched, providing employment opportunities for unemployed young men between the ages of 18 and 25.
  • 1933-1942: The CCC enrolls over 2.5 million young men from economically disadvantaged families, providing them with jobs, vocational training, and relief during the Great Depression.

    Camp Life: CCC enrollees live in camps located in rural areas and work on various conservation projects across the United States. They receive food, shelter, clothing, and a small wage, with a portion of their earnings sent back home to support their families.

    Conservation Projects: The CCC undertakes a wide range of conservation projects, including reforestation, erosion control, trail construction, forest fire prevention, wildlife conservation, historic site restoration, and the development of public parks.

    Collaboration with Other Agencies: The CCC works in collaboration with various federal agencies, including the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and Soil Conservation Service, to implement conservation programs and projects.

    Educational and Vocational Training: In addition to their work, CCC enrollees receive educational and vocational training, such as literacy classes, courses in conservation and forestry, and technical skills development.

    Military Training: During World War II, the CCC shifts its focus to providing military training for its enrollees, preparing them for military service.

  • July 1, 1942: As the United States transitions into wartime efforts and the economy improves, the CCC gradually loses its significance. The program officially ends with the termination of new enrollments.

The Civilian Conservation Corps played a significant role during the Great Depression, providing employment, relief, and skills training to young men while accomplishing vital conservation work across the country. The program's legacy can still be seen today in the numerous parks, forests, and other public lands that were developed or improved through the efforts of CCC enrollees.

Alabama was the birthplace of some of the most famous musicians in history, including Hank Williams, Nat King Cole, and W.C. Handy, who is often referred to as the "Father of the Blues."
Alabama random facts
Clay County, Alabama, has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was initially home to indigenous tribes such as the Creek and Cherokee, who lived off the land and established their own societies. However, in the early 1800s, the Creek Nation was forced to cede their lands to the United States government, leading to significant changes in the region.

The county's history is closely tied to the development of the railroad in the mid-19th century. The construction of the Alabama and Chattanooga Railroad in 1879 played a crucial role in opening up Clay County for settlement and economic growth. As a result, several towns and communities, including Ashland, the county seat, were established along the rail line.

The county's economy was primarily agrarian, with cotton being the predominant crop during the antebellum era. Like many other Southern areas, Clay County was heavily impacted by the Civil War and underwent a period of reconstruction and recovery in the post-war years. The county's agricultural sector eventually diversified, incorporating other crops such as corn, oats, and livestock farming.

In the early 20th century, Clay County also experienced the growth of small industries, including sawmills and textile mills, which contributed to its economy. The county continued to evolve throughout the 20th century, with advances in transportation, education, and healthcare. Today, Clay County maintains its rural character while also embracing modern developments and attractions, such as outdoor recreational activities and historic landmarks that preserve the county's unique heritage.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Clay County, Alabama.

  • 1818 - Clay County was originally part of the Creek Indian Territory.
  • 1832 - The Treaty of Cusseta was signed, ceding the territory to the United States.
  • 1834 - Clay County was established as a county in Alabama.
  • 1836 - The town of Ashland was incorporated.
  • 1861-1865 - Clay County, like much of the South, was greatly affected by the American Civil War.
  • 1902 - The Alabama Girls Industrial School (now known as the University of Montevallo) was established in Montevallo, which is partly located in Clay County.
  • 1920s - The Great Depression hit Clay County, causing significant economic hardships.
  • 1935 - The Talladega National Forest was established, encompassing parts of Clay County.
  • 1978 - The completion of the Pinhoti National Recreation Trail, a long-distance hiking trail that runs through Clay County.
  • 2010s - Clay County continues to be a rural area with historical sites and natural beauty, attracting visitors and outdoor enthusiasts.