National Register Listing

Whitewater State Park CCC/WPA/Rustic Style Historic Resources

a.k.a. Whitewater State Park

Off MN 74, SW of Elba, Elba, MN
Local significance of the district:
Landscape Architecture; Entertainment/recreation; Politics/government; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1989.
  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.

The first European to explore Minnesota was French explorer Jean Nicolet in 1634. He traveled along Lake Michigan and the Fox River and likely reached the present-day state of Minnesota.
Minnesota random facts
Winona County, Minnesota, has a rich and diverse history shaped by its geographical location and the people who have called it home. The region was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Dakota Sioux and Winnebago tribes, who relied on the area's abundant natural resources for their livelihoods. European settlement began in the early 19th century with the arrival of fur traders and missionaries.

The county was officially established on February 23, 1854, with Winona serving as its county seat. During the mid-19th century, the area experienced a boom in population and economic growth due to the logging and milling industries. The Mississippi River played a crucial role in the transportation of goods, making Winona County a pivotal hub for trade and commerce.

In the late 19th century, Winona County witnessed a shift in its economy as agriculture became the dominant industry. Fertile soil and favorable growing conditions made the region ideal for farming, particularly wheat and dairy production. The county's agricultural abundance led to the establishment of grain elevators, creameries, and other agricultural infrastructure.

Throughout the 20th century, Winona County continued to evolve, with a growing focus on education, healthcare, and manufacturing. The city of Winona became a center for higher education, with the establishment of several colleges and universities. The county also saw the rise of healthcare institutions and manufacturing facilities, further diversifying its economy.

Today, Winona County is celebrated for its natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, and strong sense of community. Its history is showcased in numerous historical sites, museums, and festivals, honoring the past while embracing the opportunities and challenges of the present.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Winona County, Minnesota.

  • 1854 - Winona County is established by an act of the Minnesota Territory Legislature
  • 1856 - The city of Winona is incorporated as the county seat
  • 1857 - The first courthouse is built in Winona
  • 1871 - The Winona and St. Peter Railroad is completed, connecting Winona to the growing rail network
  • 1883 - The Merrick State Park is established on the Mississippi River
  • 1941 - The Winona Municipal Airport is opened
  • 1965 - Winona State University is founded
  • 1988 - The Minnesota Marine Art Museum is established in Winona