Civilian Conservation Corps-Prisoner of War Recreation Hall
a.k.a. CCC Camp Flying Goose Recreational Hall; POW Compound 13; POW Recreational Hall
301 11th Ave., Eldora, IA Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2012.
- 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 Field of Dreams movie site, located near Dyersville, Iowa, attracts thousands of visitors each year. The site includes the baseball field used in the movie, as well as a gift shop and museum. The movie, starring Kevin Costner, was released in 1989 and has since become a beloved classic.
The early settlers of Hardin County were mostly farmers looking for fertile land to cultivate. They faced several challenges, including harsh weather conditions and scarcity of resources. Despite these difficulties, the county gradually prospered due to the construction of railroads in the late 19th century, making it easier for goods and people to travel in and out of the area.
Like many other counties in Iowa, Hardin County became a hub for agricultural production, with corn and soybeans being the main crops. The economy of the county was further boosted by the establishment of various manufacturing industries, including meatpacking plants, grain elevators, and furniture factories.
In addition to its economic growth, Hardin County is known for its historical sites and landmarks. One notable attraction is the Eldora City Hall, built in 1874, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Another famous site is the Squirrel Hollow County Park, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering camping, hiking, and fishing opportunities.
Today, Hardin County remains a vibrant and flourishing community, preserving its historical heritage while embracing modern advancements. With its beautiful landscapes, strong agricultural roots, and friendly residents, the county continues to be a desirable place to live, work, and visit.
Hardin County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Hardin County, Iowa.
- 1851: Hardin County is established and named after John J. Hardin, a lawyer and politician from Illinois.
- 1853: The first settlers arrive in the area, primarily of German and Scandinavian descent.
- 1854: The town of Eldora is platted and becomes the county seat.
- 1855: The first school is built in Eldora.
- 1856: The first newspaper, "The Eldora Ledger," is published.
- 1868: The Chicago and Northwestern Railway reaches Eldora, boosting the town's growth and economy.
- 1870: The population of Hardin County reaches over 7,000 residents.
- 1890: Eldora Electric Light Plant begins operation, bringing electricity to the town.
- 1900: The first automobile is registered in Hardin County.
- 1913: The Hardin County Courthouse is completed in Eldora.
- 1929: The Great Depression causes significant economic hardship in the county.
- 1937: Pine Lake State Park is established as a recreational area for residents.
- 1965: Interstate 35 opens, providing easier transportation access for the county.
- 1973: The Iowa River floods, causing widespread damage in Hardin County.
- 1990: Hardin County celebrates its 150th anniversary with various events and activities.
- 2008: The National Register of Historic Places adds the Hardin County Courthouse to its list.