Historical Marker

Civilian Conservation Corps Camp

Historical marker location:
Alcester, South Dakota
( Marker is at the intersection of 479th Avenue (State Highway 11) and 301st St, on the right when traveling north on 479th Avenue.)
Marker installed: 1990

  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 Black Hills of South Dakota are also home to the Crazy Horse Volksmarch, an annual event that allows visitors to hike up to the base of the Crazy Horse Memorial.
South Dakota random facts
Union County, South Dakota, has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The region was originally occupied by Native American tribes, including the Oyate, Dakota, and Ponca. European settlers started arriving in the mid-1800s, attracted by fertile land and the prospect of gold in the Black Hills. The US government negotiated treaties with the Native tribes, leading to the forced removal of many indigenous peoples from the area.

In 1862, Union County was officially established, named after the Union victory in the Civil War. However, it wasn't until 1868 that land surveying began, leading to an influx of homesteaders from all over the country. The county's rich agricultural potential attracted settlers who laid the foundation for the future growth and prosperity of the area.

Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Union County continued to develop, with farming becoming the backbone of the local economy. The construction of railroad lines in the area accelerated growth, making it easier for farmers to transport their goods and enabling trade with other parts of the country. Small towns sprang up, such as Beresford, Alcester, and Elk Point, which served as important centers for commerce and community life.

In the mid-20th century, Union County experienced significant economic and social changes. The mechanization of agriculture brought both advantages and challenges, leading to a decline in the number of family farms. However, the local economy diversified, with the growth of manufacturing and other industries. Today, Union County continues to be a vibrant and prosperous community, with a strong agricultural sector, small businesses, and a close-knit population that values its rich history and natural beauty.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Union County, South Dakota.

  • 1862 - The area now known as Union County is established as part of the Dakota Territory.
  • 1868 - The Homestead Act encourages settlement in the area, and pioneers start to arrive.
  • 1870 - The first post office, named Alcester, is established in the county.
  • 1877 - Union County is officially organized and named after the Union Pacific Railroad.
  • 1879 - The village of Beresford is founded and becomes the county seat.
  • 1880 - The first newspaper, the Union County Courier, begins publication.
  • 1895 - The original courthouse in Beresford burns down and is replaced with a new one.
  • 1904 - The railroad extends to the village of Elk Point, increasing economic activity in the area.
  • 1917 - The Union County Historical Society is founded to preserve the county's history.
  • 1930 - The Great Depression impacts Union County, leading to a decline in population and economic hardship.
  • 1969 - The Missouri River flooding affects parts of Union County, causing damage to homes and infrastructure.
  • 1996 - The Union County Museum is established to showcase artifacts and historical exhibits.
  • 2010 - Union County celebrates its 150th anniversary with various community events and festivities.