CCC Ranch Headquarters
a.k.a. Charley Thasher Place;Osborn Homestead;Three C Ranch
W of Texhoma, Texhoma, OK Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
- 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 name "Oklahoma" comes from the Choctaw words "okla" and "humma", which together mean "red people." The Choctaw Nation had a significant presence in the area that is now Oklahoma before it became a state.
In the 16th century, Spanish explorers began to venture into what is now Texas County. However, it was not until the 19th century that significant settlements were established. During this time, Texas County was part of the Unassigned Lands, which were designated for Native Americans who were forcefully relocated from their ancestral territories further east.
In 1901, the discovery of vast oil reserves in nearby Osage County sparked a boom in Texas County. Many people flocked to the area in hopes of striking it rich, leading to a rapid increase in population. This influx of settlers laid the foundation for the county's development and growth.
Over the years, Texas County has continued to thrive, largely due to its strong agricultural and energy sectors. The region became known for its vast cattle ranches, wheat and corn farms, and oil and gas production. Today, Texas County remains an important economic hub in Oklahoma, attracting visitors for its rich history and natural beauty.
Throughout its history, Texas County has seen significant changes and developments, from its early Native American inhabitants to its status as a prominent agricultural and energy center. The county's past is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its residents, who have shaped it into the vibrant community it is today.
Texas County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Texas County, Oklahoma.
- 1884 - Texas County is established as a county in the Oklahoma Territory.
- 1887 - The town of Guymon is founded and becomes the county seat of Texas County.
- 1901 - The first oil well is drilled in Texas County, marking the beginning of the county's oil industry.
- 1933 - The Dust Bowl hits Texas County, leading to severe drought and economic hardships.
- 1943 - The Guymon Army Airfield is established to train pilots during World War II.
- 1957 - The Optima National Wildlife Refuge is created in Texas County.
- 1981 - Texas County experiences an oil boom, bringing economic growth to the region.
- 2009 - Guymon is named the "Golden Spread" for its economic stability during the national recession.