Jenny Lake CCC Camp NP-4

a.k.a. Horse Concessioner Dormitory (69);Climbing Concession Office

1/4 mi. S of Jenny Lake, W side of Cottonwood Cr., Moose, WY
Local significance of the building:
Politics/government; Conservation; Social History

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2006.
  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.

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.

Wyoming was the location of the world's first commercial oil well, which was drilled in 1859 near present-day Casper.
Teton County, Wyoming, located in the western part of the state, has a rich and complex history. The region was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Shoshone, Blackfeet, and Crow. European explorers, including John Colter and Jim Bridger, arrived in the early 19th century, attracted by the abundance of wildlife and natural beauty. However, it was not until the late 1800s that permanent settlement began.

In 1893, the town of Jackson was established as the county seat of the newly formed Teton County. The area's economy was initially based on fur trading and ranching, but the discovery of gold in nearby South Pass City brought an influx of prospectors hoping to strike it rich. However, the gold rush was short-lived, and Teton County saw little development until the early 20th century.

The construction of the Teton Dam in the 1960s brought significant changes to the county's landscape and economy. The dam generated hydroelectric power and created a reservoir, which provided irrigation for local farms and water for the growing population. However, the dam's tragic failure in 1976 resulted in devastating flooding downstream, causing widespread damage and loss of life.

Today, Teton County is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the majestic Teton Range and Yellowstone National Park drawing millions of visitors each year. The economy has shifted towards tourism and outdoor recreation, with world-class skiing, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The county has also become a destination for affluent residents seeking a picturesque mountain lifestyle, leading to a significant increase in real estate prices and a corresponding affordability challenge for local residents. Despite the changes and challenges, Teton County remains a vibrant place with a diverse history that continues to shape its present and future.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Teton County, Wyoming.

  • 1829: Teton County is visited by early fur traders and mountain men.
  • 1872: Yellowstone National Park is established, including parts of Teton County.
  • 1888: Teton County is officially organized.
  • 1916: Grand Teton National Park is established, expanding the protected area in Teton County.
  • 1923: Jackson Lake Dam is completed, creating Jackson Lake Reservoir.
  • 1949: The Jackson Hole Ski Resort opens, becoming a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
  • 1950: The Jackson Hole Airport is constructed, improving transportation accessibility to the county.
  • 1956: The National Elk Refuge is established, providing winter habitat for thousands of elk.
  • 1970: Teton Village is developed, offering luxury accommodations, dining, and recreation facilities.
  • 1997: The National Museum of Wildlife Art opens, showcasing important wildlife art collections.