Niceville Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Worker 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.
Florida is a weird, wonderful and more rare kind of place. It can take a lifetime to explore!
In the 16th century, Spanish explorers, including Hernando de Soto, arrived in the area. They established settlements and introduced European diseases, which had a devastating impact on the Native American population. The Spanish rule continued until the late 18th century when Florida came under British control. However, the British influence in Okaloosa County was limited.
Following the American Revolution, Spain regained control of Florida, including Okaloosa County. During this time, the region saw increased interaction with American settlers moving southward. In 1821, Florida was transferred to the United States as a result of the Adams-Onís Treaty. As American settlers continued to arrive, the Creek Wars of the early 19th century disrupted the lives of both Native Americans and settlers in the area.
By the mid-19th century, timber and naval stores began driving the local economy. Sawmills proliferated, and the lumber industry became a significant contributor to Okaloosa County's growth. The railroad arrived in 1895, connecting the county to the rest of Florida and enabling further expansion. Agriculture, particularly cotton cultivation, also became prominent.
Okaloosa County experienced significant growth during the 20th century. The construction of military bases, such as Eglin Air Force Base and Hurlburt Field, in the early 1940s brought increased economic opportunities and population growth to the area. These bases played a vital role in World War II and have remained significant military installations to this day.
In recent decades, Okaloosa County has become a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor recreational activities. The county's economy has diversifed, with tourism, military, and technology sectors playing significant roles. As of today, Okaloosa County continues to thrive, combining its historical significance with modern development.
Okaloosa County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Okaloosa County, Florida.
- 1915: Okaloosa County is established on September 18.
- 1933: The first bridge connecting Okaloosa County to the mainland is completed.
- 1940s: Tyndall Air Force Base is established in Okaloosa County.
- 1956: The town of Fort Walton Beach is incorporated.
- 1961: The Eglin Air Force Base museum opens to the public.
- 1963: Okaloosa-Walton Community College (now Northwest Florida State College) is founded.
- 1969: Destin is incorporated as a city.
- 1975: The Okaloosa Correctional Institution is established.
- 1996: The Emerald Coast Science Center opens in Fort Walton Beach.
- 2004: Hurricane Ivan causes significant damage to Okaloosa County.