American Legion Forest CCC Shelter
W side of West River Rd., American Legion State Forest, Barkhamsted, CT Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1986.
- 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 Connecticut River, which flows through the state, played a key role in the early settlement and development of Connecticut. The river provided a means of transportation for goods and people, and many of the state's early towns and cities were established along its banks.
The county was officially established in October 1751, named after Lichfield, England. It quickly became known for its beautiful landscapes and fertile land, which attracted more settlers and spurred the growth of agriculture and trade. Litchfield County became an important center for farming, producing crops such as grains, fruits, and vegetables.
During the American Revolutionary War, Litchfield County played a significant role, with many residents actively participating in the fight for independence. The area's strategic location along major trade routes and close proximity to New York City also made it a key hub for military operations and supply lines.
In the 19th century, Litchfield County experienced significant economic and cultural growth. The town of Litchfield itself emerged as a prominent center for education and law, with the establishment of the Litchfield Law School in 1784. Many famous figures, including Aaron Burr and John C. Calhoun, studied there.
Today, Litchfield County retains much of its historical character and charm. Its picturesque landscapes, historic architecture, and rich cultural heritage continue to attract visitors and residents alike. It stands as a reminder of the area's vibrant past and the resilience of the people who have shaped its history.
Litchfield County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Litchfield County, Connecticut.
- 1745: Litchfield County is established in the colony of Connecticut.
- 1773: Tapping Reeve opens the Litchfield Law School, the first law school in the United States.
- 1776-1783: Litchfield County actively supports the American Revolution.
- 1800: The Litchfield Female Academy, one of the first educational institutions for women, is founded.
- 1814: The Litchfield County Courthouse, designed by architect E. Townsend Mix, is completed.
- 1833: The Shepaug Railroad, the first railroad in the county, is established.
- 1856: The town of Torrington becomes the county seat of Litchfield County.
- 1873: The Connecticut State Prison is relocated to Winsted in Litchfield County.
- 1886: The Cornwall Bridge Iron Bridge, the oldest surviving metal truss bridge in Connecticut, is constructed.
- 1937: The town of Sharon becomes the last town to be incorporated in Litchfield County.
- 1978: The Litchfield Hills Film Festival, later rebranded as the Litchfield Hills Film Festival, is established.