The CCC
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.
The Illinois State Police, founded in 1922, is one of the oldest state police agencies in the United States. The agency is responsible for enforcing state laws, protecting state property, and providing security for the governor and other state officials.
In the early years, agriculture played a significant role in Jersey County's economy. Farmers primarily grew crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco, which contributed to the growth and prosperity of the region. The county's fertile soil and favorable climate were ideal for farming, which became a major economic driver.
During the mid-19th century, Jersey County experienced significant growth due to the expansion of the railroad systems. The arrival of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad, later followed by the Toledo, St. Louis and Kansas City Railroad, facilitated the transportation of goods and people, opening up new markets and opportunities. This led to the establishment of several small towns and communities, such as Jerseyville, Grafton, and Elsah.
Jersey County also played a role in the abolitionist movement, with an active underground railroad network operating in the area. Many residents of Jersey County were involved in assisting enslaved individuals seeking freedom, providing them with shelter and aid along their journey.
In the 20th century, Jersey County continued to grow and develop. The expansion of industry and the modernization of agriculture brought new jobs and economic opportunities to the area. Today, Jersey County remains a vibrant community that celebrates its history while embracing the challenges and opportunities of the present.
Jersey County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Jersey County, Illinois.
- 1812: Jersey County is established.
- 1816: First settlers arrive in the area.
- 1834: Jerseyville becomes the county seat.
- 1835: The first school is built in Jersey County.
- 1839: The Jersey County Democrat newspaper is established.
- 1851: The first railroad is completed in the county.
- 1861-1865: Jersey County residents serve in the Civil War.
- 1871: The Jersey County fair is first held.
- 1896: A new courthouse is built in Jerseyville.
- 1930s: The Great Depression brings economic hardships to the county.
- 1957: The Brussels Ferry over Illinois River is replaced with a bridge.
- 1980s: The construction of Highway 67 brings economic growth to the county.
- 1993: Pere Marquette State Park, located in Jersey County, celebrates its 50th anniversary.