Historical Marker

The Civilian Conservation Corps at Abilene State Park

Historical marker location:
150 Park Road 32, Tuscola, Texas
( at Abilene State Park)
Marker installed: 2001
Marker size: 27" x 42"

President Franklin D. Roosevelt and the U.S. Congress created the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1933 to provide jobs on public lands for unemployed workers, specifically young men and World War I veterans. Quick to recognize the benefits of this program, the city of Abilene donated land in 1933 for the CCC's use in building a state park near Lake Abilene. Company No. 1823, one of the companies comprised entirely of World War I veterans, was assigned to the Taylor County site. Using the design of Abilene architect David Castle, the men constructed a refectory in addition to roads, picnic areas and a swimming pool with native sandstone as the primary building material. Abilene mayor C. L. Johnson declared it "a beautiful spot of great recreational benefit" at the opening ceremony on May 10, 1934, during which state parks board chairman D. E. Colp formally dedicated the new state park. In 1935 a reactivated CCC Company No. 1823, comprised of African American veterans, returned to Abilene State Park for additional work. They built culverts, a water tower and latrines, and undertook some road and stonework repairs before moving on to Kerrville. The work of the Civilian Conservation Corps is still visible at Abilene State Park, one of more than 50 public parks in Texas that benefited from labor and craftsmanship of the men of the CCC. (2001)

  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.

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

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Texas random facts
Taylor County is located in the west-central region of Texas and has a rich and diverse history. The area that is now Taylor County was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Comanche and Kiowa, before European settlers arrived. In the mid-19th century, the region became part of Texas and was officially established as Taylor County in 1858, named after Edward Taylor, a prominent figure in the Mexican-American War.

The early years of Taylor County were characterized by the hardships and challenges faced by the settlers. The area was sparsely populated, and conflicts with Native American tribes were common. However, with the development of the Texas and Pacific Railway in the late 19th century, Taylor County experienced a significant period of growth and development. The railroad sparked economic growth, attracting new settlers and industries to the area.

Agriculture played a vital role in Taylor County's history, with cotton being the dominant crop. The fertile soil and favorable climate allowed farmers to thrive, and cotton production became a major industry in the county. However, the agricultural boom was affected by various factors, including natural disasters and economic fluctuations, leading to both prosperity and challenges for the region's farmers.

Over the years, Taylor County has continued to evolve and diversify its economy. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century led to the establishment of the petroleum industry in the county, bringing new opportunities for growth and development. Today, Taylor County is a thriving community with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, oil and gas, manufacturing, education, and healthcare. The county's rich history is celebrated through its numerous historical sites and museums, providing a glimpse into the past while embracing the progress and future of the region.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Taylor County, Texas.

  • 1858 - Taylor County is officially formed and organized.
  • 1878 - Abilene becomes the county seat of Taylor County.
  • 1881 - The Texas and Pacific Railway is completed, increasing transportation and trade in Taylor County.
  • 1890 - Taylor County population reaches over 8,000 residents.
  • 1909 - Abilene Christian College (now Abilene Christian University) is established.
  • 1924 - Construction of the Lake Abilene dam begins.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression severely impacts Taylor County, causing economic hardship.
  • 1950 - Dyess Air Force Base is established, bringing economic growth to the county.
  • 1969 - Abilene becomes the first city in Texas to implement the "911" emergency telephone system.
  • 1999 - The Taylor County Expo Center opens, becoming a hub for events and exhibitions.
  • 2006 - The Abilene Zoo completes a major renovation, enhancing its facilities and exhibits.