CCC Men Built Improvements for Glenwood
Historical marker location:- 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.
Mesa Verde National Park, located in southwest Colorado, is home to some of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in the world. These ancient structures were built by the Ancestral Puebloans over 700 years ago and provide a glimpse into the lives of these ancient people.
In 1853, the first white settlement was established in what is now Garfield County. This settlement was known as Defiance and served as a supply point for miners seeking their fortunes during the Colorado Gold Rush. The discovery of gold and silver in the nearby mountains attracted a wave of prospectors, leading to the establishment of several mining camps and towns, including Glenwood Springs and Rifle. These mining operations played a crucial role in the development of Garfield County, with the mining industry serving as the backbone of the local economy for many years.
The late 19th century saw the expansion of railroads across the region, facilitating transportation and trade in Garfield County. It also brought an influx of new settlers and opportunities for economic growth. Agriculture began to thrive, with ranching and farming becoming important industries in the area. The establishment of irrigation systems allowed for the cultivation of crops, including fruit orchards and livestock grazing.
In the 20th century, Garfield County experienced significant shifts in its economy. The decline of mining and the rise of the oil and gas industry had a profound impact on the region. The discovery of natural gas reserves led to increased exploration and extraction activities, resulting in a boom in the local economy. Today, Garfield County continues to be an important player in the state's energy sector and has diversified its economy with tourism, outdoor recreations, and services industries playing an increasingly significant role.
Garfield County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Garfield County, Colorado.
- 1883 - Garfield County is established on February 10.
- 1886 - The county seat is relocated from New Castle to Glenwood Springs.
- 1906 - Oil and gas production begins in the county.
- 1943 - Japanese American internment camp, named Camp Amache, is established in the county.
- 1960s - The construction of Interstate 70 through the county begins.
- 1970 - The first oil shale boom occurs, bringing economic growth and population increase.
- 1982 - Oil shale industry declines, leading to a severe economic downturn in the county.
- 1991 - The Glenwood Canyon section of Interstate 70 is completed.
- 2002 - The Coal Seam Fire causes significant damage, destruction, and evacuations in the county.
- 2020 - Garfield County celebrates its 137th anniversary.