Civilian Conservation Corps
Historical marker location:- 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.
Pennsylvania was the second state to ratify the U.S. Constitution on December 12, 1787.
European settlement in the area began in the 18th century, with the arrival of fur traders and pioneers. In 1763, the first permanent settlement was established by British settler James Brady, who built a log cabin near present-day Muncy. The county was officially formed in 1795, named after the river that flows through it, Lycoming Creek.
During the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Lycoming County experienced rapid growth as a result of the lumber industry. The region's vast forests provided an abundant supply of timber, attracting numerous sawmills and loggers. The arrival of the Pennsylvania Canal and the Pennsylvania Railroad in the mid-19th century further stimulated the county's economic development, allowing for easier transportation of goods and people.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Lycoming County diversified its economy, with the establishment of manufacturing industries such as textiles, furniture, and locomotive production. The county also played a significant role during World War II, with the construction of the Williamsport Army Airfield and the production of military equipment.
Today, Lycoming County is known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and strong sense of community. The county hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including the Little League World Series and the Pennsylvania State Laurel Festival. With its rich history and promising future, Lycoming County continues to be a dynamic and thriving region in Pennsylvania.
Lycoming County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Lycoming County, Pennsylvania.
- Pre-1772: The area that is now Lycoming County was home to Native American tribes, including the Susquehannocks and the Senecas.
- 1772: The first European settlers, James Alexander and James Armstrong, arrive in what is now Lycoming County.
- 1795: Lycoming County is established by the Pennsylvania State Legislature.
- 1804: The first courthouse is built in Williamsport, the county seat of Lycoming County.
- 1823: The Lycoming Gazette, the first newspaper in the county, is established.
- 1839: The Susquehanna Boom, a system of interconnected logs on the river, is constructed to facilitate the transportation of timber down the river.
- 1861-1865: Lycoming County, like the rest of the country, is deeply affected by the American Civil War.
- 1871: The Williamsport Hospital, the first hospital in the county, is founded.
- 1889: The first Little League Baseball game is played in Williamsport, marking the beginning of a long association between the city and the sport.
- 1928: The Williamsport Regional Airport is established.
- 1979: The Little League Baseball World Series is permanently moved to South Williamsport.