Shady Lake CCC Bridge #2
Shady Lake Campground loop road over the East Fork of the Saline River, Athens, AR Local significance of the structure:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2010.
- 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.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
The Battle of Helena, which took place in Helena, Arkansas, in July 1863, was one of the largest Civil War battles fought in the state. Union forces were able to repel a Confederate attack, which helped secure control of the Mississippi River for the Union.
In 1844, the Polk County area became a part of the Republic of Texas. After the annexation of Texas into the United States in 1846, Polk County was incorporated into the newly formed state of Arkansas. The county was named after President James K. Polk, who was in office at the time.
During the American Civil War, Polk County experienced significant conflict. It was a divided area, with some residents supporting the Union and others supporting the Confederacy. The Battle of Backbone Mountain took place in Polk County in 1864, with Confederate forces successfully repelling Union troops.
After the Civil War, Polk County's economy shifted from agriculture to include timber and mining industries. The county experienced a boom in the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to the discovery of rich mineral deposits, including zinc and lead. However, natural disasters such as the Great Depression and severe flooding in the mid-20th century caused economic decline in the region.
Despite the challenges faced throughout its history, Polk County has remained resilient. Today, it is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and small-town charm. The county continues to honor its heritage through the preservation of historic sites and landmarks, allowing visitors and residents alike to appreciate its storied past.
Polk County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Polk County, Arkansas.
- 1838: Polk County is founded and named after James K. Polk, the 11th President of the United States.
- 1849: The first post office is established in Polk County.
- 1861-1865: Polk County residents actively participate in the American Civil War.
- 1880s: The arrival of the railroad leads to increased economic development and population growth in Polk County.
- 1898: The county courthouse in Mena, the county seat of Polk County, is completed.
- 1924: The Mena-Intermountain Municipal Airport is established in Polk County.
- 1930s: The Great Depression impacts Polk County, causing economic hardships for its residents.
- 1957: The Queen Wihelmina State Park is established in eastern Polk County.
- 1976: The Old Military Road Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- 2009: The Ouachita National Forest, which covers parts of Polk County, celebrates its 100th anniversary.