Historical Marker

CCC Camp Site

Historical marker location:
Chesterfield, Virginia
( Marker can be reached from State Park Road, 0.2 miles north of State Park Road (Virginia Route 780).)

  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.

Audiobooks about the history of Virginia.
Virginia was home to some of the earliest organized resistance to British rule, with the formation of the Sons of Liberty in the mid-1760s.
Virginia random facts
Chesterfield County, Virginia, has a rich history that dates back to the early 17th century. Named after the fourth Earl of Chesterfield, the county was established in 1749 as one of the original five counties of Virginia. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Appomattox and the Powhatan Confederacy.

During the colonial era, Chesterfield County played a significant role in the tobacco industry, which was the backbone of the Virginia economy. Large plantations emerged, owned by prominent families such as the Bollings and the Randolphs. The county was an active participant in the American Revolution, with local militia units joining the cause against British rule.

After the Revolutionary War, Chesterfield County experienced steady growth and development. The construction of the Chesterfield Railroad in 1831, connecting the county to Richmond, further accelerated its growth. The railroad brought new industries and businesses to the area, leading to the establishment of coal mines, factories, and trading centers.

During the Civil War, Chesterfield County was an important strategic location due to its proximity to Richmond, the Confederate capital. The county witnessed significant military activity, including the Battle of Drewry's Bluff in 1862. Following Virginia's secession from the United States, numerous battles and skirmishes occurred in the area as Union forces attempted to capture Richmond.

In the 20th century, Chesterfield County experienced rapid suburbanization and population growth. With its proximity to Richmond and its excellent school system, the county became an attractive destination for families and businesses. Today, Chesterfield County is one of the most populous and prosperous counties in Virginia, known for its diverse communities, rich historic sites, and vibrant economy.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Chesterfield County, Virginia.

  • Chesterfield County established in 1749
  • Around 1750, the county seat was established as Chesterfield Courthouse
  • In 1814, the courthouse was destroyed by fire
  • Mid-1800s, the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad brought economic growth to the area
  • During the American Civil War (1861-1865), Chesterfield was occupied by Union forces
  • In 1914, the new Chesterfield Courthouse was built
  • Throughout the 20th century, the county experienced substantial residential and commercial development
  • In 1997, Chesterfield County celebrated its 250th anniversary