CCC Statue
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 Empire State Building, which was completed in 1931, was built during the Great Depression and was funded entirely by private investors. At the time of its completion, it was the tallest building in the world.
European settlers first arrived in the late 18th century, with the area officially becoming Wyoming County in 1841. The county derives its name from a Delaware Indian word meaning "large plains." Throughout the early years, the economy relied heavily on agriculture and timber, with farms and sawmills dotting the landscape.
One notable event in the county's history is the construction of the Genesee Valley Canal, which connected the Erie Canal to the southern parts of the state. This canal helped fuel economic growth and facilitated the transportation of goods across the county. However, the canal faced challenges with declining usage due to the rise of railroads, ultimately leading to its demise in the late 19th century.
Wyoming County has also experienced significant industrialization throughout its history. The discovery of natural gas in the late 19th century sparked an energy boom, leading to the establishment of gas wells and factories in the region. Today, the county continues to be an important center for agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.
In summary, Wyoming County, NY has a diverse history that encompasses Native American settlements, early European colonization, agricultural development, canal transportation, industrialization, and the continued importance of agriculture and tourism to its economy.
Wyoming County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Wyoming County, New York.
- 1812: Wyoming County is officially established by the New York State Legislature.
- 1836: Letchworth State Park, also known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," is established in Wyoming County.
- 1862: The first oil well in Wyoming County is drilled in the town of Arcade, leading to an oil boom in the area.
- 1863: The Wyoming County Fair, one of the oldest county fairs in New York, begins its annual tradition.
- 1944: Construction of the Perry-Warsaw Airport commences, serving as an important hub for aviation in the region.
- 1970: The Attica Prison riot occurs, making national headlines and leading to significant changes in the prison system.
- 1997: The Windmill Farm and Craft Market opens, becoming a popular attraction for tourists and locals.
- 2010: Wyoming County experiences a population growth, with record numbers in agriculture and manufacturing.