Historical Marker

Civilian Conservation Corps

Historical marker location:
Bass River, New Jersey
( Marker is on East Greenbush Road (County Route 654) south of Stage Road, on the left when traveling north.)

  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 Battle of Monmouth, which was fought in New Jersey during the American Revolutionary War on June 28, 1778, was one of the largest battles of the war, involving more than 25,000 troops.
New Jersey random facts
Burlington County, located in southern New Jersey, has a rich and vibrant history that dates back to the pre-colonial era. The land that now encompasses Burlington County was originally inhabited by the Lenape Native American tribe. Europeans first arrived in the area in the early 17th century, with Dutch and Swedish explorers making initial contact.

In 1677, the Province of West Jersey was established by Quaker settlers, who sought religious freedom and democratic principles. Burlington, situated along the Delaware River, became the capital of West Jersey and a hub for trade and commerce. The town quickly grew into a prosperous community and played a significant role in shaping the early history of the region.

During the American Revolution, Burlington County was a site of strategic importance. The area saw several military engagements, including the Battle of Iron Works Hill, the Battle of White Horse Tavern, and the Battle of Petticoat Bridge. These skirmishes between American and British forces left lasting marks on the local landscape and helped solidify the region's role in the fight for independence.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, Burlington County experienced significant growth and development. The county's agricultural and industrial sectors expanded, with farming, textile manufacturing, and shipbuilding playing vital roles in the local economy. Today, Burlington County continues to thrive as a vibrant community, offering a mix of historical charm and modern amenities for residents and visitors alike.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Burlington County, New Jersey.

  • 1677 - Burlington County is established by the English settlers
  • 1681 - First permanent settlement is established in Burlington City
  • 1752 - Mount Holly becomes the county seat
  • 1776-1783 - Burlington County plays a role in the American Revolutionary War
  • 1793 - Moorestown is incorporated as a township
  • 1830 - First railroads are built in Burlington County
  • 1861-1865 - County residents serve in the American Civil War
  • 1878 - Pemberton becomes a borough
  • 1892 - First electric trolley car operates in Burlington County
  • 1926 - First bridge is built over the Delaware River, connecting Burlington County and Pennsylvania
  • 1955 - Burlington County College (now Rowan College at Burlington County) is established
  • 1974 - Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst is formed by the merging of three military bases
  • 1997 - Township of Evesham changes its name to Marlton
  • 2004 - Burlington County Prison Museum is opened in Mount Holly