National Register Listing

CCC Recreation Building-Nature Museum

McCormick's Creek SP, W of jct. of IN 43 and IN 46, Spencer, IN
Local significance of the building:
Entertainment/recreation; Architecture; Social History

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1993.
  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.

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.

entertainment recreation architecture social history museums
The first European settlement in Indiana was established by the French in 1732 at Vincennes, in the southwestern part of the state.
Indiana random facts
Owen County, Indiana has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Miami and Shawnee, who lived off the land and used the White River for transportation and trade. In the early 1800s, European settlers began to arrive in the area, attracted by the fertile soil and opportunities for farming.

The county was officially established in 1819 and named after Abraham Owen, a Kentucky legislator. During the 1800s, Owen County's economy flourished with the establishment of several small towns, including Spencer, the county seat. Agriculture played a central role in the county's development, with farmers growing crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco. The White River also served as a vital source of power for sawmills and gristmills.

Owen County played a significant role during the American Civil War. Many residents enlisted in the Union Army, and the county provided troops, supplies, and support for the war effort. Following the end of the war, Owen County continued to grow and prosper, with the construction of roads, schools, and businesses. In the early 20th century, the discovery of coal brought newfound economic prosperity to the county. Coal mines were established, and the industry became a major employer in the region.

Today, Owen County retains its agricultural roots while embracing modern developments. The county's rich history is celebrated through various museums, historical sites, and festivals. The community continues to thrive with a diverse economy, including agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. With its scenic landscapes, charming towns, and friendly residents, Owen County remains a vibrant part of Indiana's history and culture.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Owen County, Indiana.

  • 1818: Owen County is founded as part of the Indiana Territory.
  • 1820: The county's first courthouse is built in the town of Spencer.
  • 1825: The county's first post office is established.
  • 1857: The railroad reaches Owen County, spurring economic growth.
  • 1861-1865: Owen County residents serve in the American Civil War.
  • 1866: Indiana's first coal mine is established in Owen County.
  • 1890s: The discovery of natural gas leads to industrial development.
  • 1911: The last public hanging in Indiana takes place in Owen County.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression impacts the county's economy.
  • 1960s: Owen County experiences population decline.
  • 1990s: Tourism becomes an important industry for the county.