Civilian Conservation Corps, Camp #831
The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) was a federal program established during the Great Depression to provide jobs for the nation’s young men. #831 was one of the first CCC camps in New Mexico. The men stationed here provided most of the labor to develop Bottomless Lakes State Park. Dedicated in 1933, this park was built on land purchased by the citizens of Chaves County and donated to the State
- 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.
In the 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the region, searching for gold and new trading routes. They established settlements and introduced Christianity to the native population. The Spanish influence remained in the area for several centuries, shaping the culture and architecture of Chaves County.
In the 19th century, American pioneers and settlers began to migrate to the region, attracted by the prospects of ranching and agriculture. The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s further stimulated the county's growth, connecting it to national markets and facilitating the transportation of goods.
Chaves County also played a significant role in the development of the aviation industry. In the early 20th century, famed aviator Roscoe Turner established the Roscoe Turner Airport in the county, attracting aviation enthusiasts and pioneering the field of aviation in New Mexico. Today, Chaves County remains an important hub for aviation, with commercial and private airports serving the region.
With its vibrant history, Chaves County continues to thrive as a center for agriculture, aviation, and cultural heritage. The county's diverse past has left a lasting impact on its communities and has shaped it into a unique and vibrant place to live and visit.
Chaves County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Chaves County, New Mexico.
- 1889: Chaves County is created as a county in the Territory of New Mexico.
- 1893: Roswell becomes the county seat of Chaves County.
- Early 1900s: Agriculture, particularly dryland farming and livestock raising, becomes the main economic activities in the county.
- 1940: Walker Air Force Base is established near Roswell, bringing military personnel and economic growth to the region.
- 1947: The alleged Roswell UFO incident occurs, gaining worldwide attention and cementing Roswell's place in popular culture.
- 1950s-1960s: Oil and gas exploration and production become important industries in Chaves County.
- 1970s: The construction and completion of the Brantley Dam leads to the development of recreational activities, such as boating and fishing, in the county.
- 1990s-Present: Chaves County continues to experience population growth and economic diversification, with sectors like healthcare, education, and tourism playing significant roles.