Civilian Conservation Corps at Fort Necessity
Historical marker location:Fort Necessity National Battlefield
- 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 first drive-in movie theater in the world opened in Camden, New Jersey, just across the Delaware River from Philadelphia, in 1933.
During the American Revolution, Fayette County played a significant role as a strategic location. The area was a contested region, witnessing various clashes between American and British forces. Notably, the Battle of Brandywine in September 1777, one of the largest battles of the war, took place partly in what is now Fayette County.
The early 19th century brought industrialization to Fayette County, driven by its vast coal and coke deposits. The county became a major producer of coal and coke, attracting numerous immigrants seeking employment in the booming mining and steel industries. Towns like Uniontown and Connellsville grew rapidly, becoming central hubs for coal mining and related industries.
In the late 19th and 20th centuries, Fayette County experienced both economic booms and challenging times. The decline of the coal industry in the mid-20th century led to a period of economic decline, with many mines closing and communities facing significant challenges. However, recent decades have seen efforts to diversify the economy and revitalize the region through the development of tourism, recreation, and small businesses.
Today, Fayette County continues to embrace its historical roots while adapting to changing times. Visitors can explore the rich history of the area through numerous historical landmarks, including Fort Necessity, Braddock's Grave, and various museums. Additionally, the county is known for its abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and boating along the Youghiogheny River and Laurel Highlands.
Fayette County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Fayette County, Pennsylvania.
- 1754: The area that is now Fayette County is explored by Christopher Gist, an agent for the Ohio Company
- 1755: Fort Necessity is built by George Washington during the French and Indian War
- 1783: Fayette County is officially created from part of Westmoreland County
- 1793: The town of Uniontown, the county seat, is founded
- 1831: The National Road is completed, passing through Fayette County and contributing to its economic growth
- 1861-1865: Fayette County sends soldiers to fight in the American Civil War
- 1944-1945: The Belle Vernon Area School District is formed through the consolidation of several smaller school districts
- 1962: The construction of the Youghiogheny Dam and Reservoir is completed, providing flood control and recreational opportunities
- 1979: The "Whiskey Rebellion" monument is dedicated in commemoration of the 1794 tax protest in Fayette County
- 1992: The Great Allegheny Passage, a hiking and biking trail, opens in Fayette County