Historical Marker

Civilian Conservation Corps

Historical marker location:
Princeton, Maine
( Marker is at the intersection of Main Street (U.S. 1) and Depot Street, on the left when traveling south on Main Street.)
Marker installed: 1996

  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.

Maine has a unique lobstering tradition: Lobstering is a way of life in Maine, and it has been for generations. Lobstering was once considered a lowly profession, but now it is a highly respected and lucrative industry. Maine lobsters are renowned for their sweet flavor and are considered a delicacy around the world.
Maine random facts
Washington County, located in the northeastern corner of Maine, has a rich history that spans thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by various Indigenous tribes, including the Passamaquoddy and Penobscot peoples, who lived off the land and utilized the bay and rivers for fishing.

In the early 17th century, European explorers and settlers began arriving in the area. Dutch colonists were among the first Europeans to establish a presence, followed by the English who claimed the land for their expanding colonies. The English established trading posts and fishing villages, leading to increased European presence in the region.

During the American Revolution, Washington County played a significant role. The population was divided in its support, with some residents favoring independence while others remained loyal to the British Crown. The area's coastal location made it a hotbed for smuggling and privateering, as it provided easy access to the Gulf of Maine and the Atlantic Ocean.

In the 19th century, Washington County experienced significant economic growth, particularly in the lumber and fishing industries. Sawmills and shipyards were established, taking advantage of the region's abundant forests and access to the sea. The coastal towns also became popular summer destinations for wealthy tourists, who were drawn to the picturesque coastlines and natural beauty of the area.

Today, Washington County continues to be known for its natural resources and picturesque landscapes. It remains a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for fishing, hiking, and kayaking. The county also has a strong sense of community pride and embraces its historical roots, with numerous museums, festivals, and events celebrating the region's unique history and culture.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Washington County, Maine.

  • 1789 - Washington County established as a county in the state of Maine
  • 1808 - Machias becomes the county seat of Washington County
  • 1838 - Washington County's population reaches 10,784
  • 1860s - Lumber industry booms in Washington County
  • 1889 - Washington County's population reaches its peak at 34,518
  • 1914 - Eastport becomes the easternmost port in the United States
  • 1940s - Decline in the lumber industry negatively affects Washington County's economy
  • 1961 - Quoddy Dam is completed, creating the West Quoddy Head State Park
  • 2002 - Washington County's population declines to 33,941
  • 2012 - 75% of the county's land is under forest cover