Civilian
Conservation Corps (CCC)
TIn 1933, the nation was
struggling in the grips of the Great Depression. Millions were out of work and land was in
need of help too. Franklin D. Roosevelt, the new president, planned to save the natural
resources and unemployed young men by bringing them together in the Civilian Conservation
Corps (CCC).
By the summer of 1933,
hundreds of CCC camps had been built. More than 250,000 young men began working on
projects to conserve water, soil, forests, and parks. They enrolled for a six-month stay,
but many stayed longer. Each of the 200 enrollees in camp received supervision and
instruction, proper clothing, medical care, and a chance for schooling. They also enjoyed
plentiful food, fresh air, and a chance to do useful work.
They helped their families,
too, sending most of their $30 monthly pay back home. And they helped their country by
completing thousands of valuable projects.
For many, it was the best
times of their lives.
Many CCC camps worked on
projects in Washington State Parks. In fact, some state parks were built entirely by CCC
men. They built roads to the parks, constructed picnic areas and campgrounds, forged miles
of trails, and built bridges and protective railings. They learned the art of log and
stone construction by building kitchen shelters, restrooms, and caretaker homes.
During the evenings, the men
could enjoy sports, take classes, play cards, or simply relax with their new friends.
Weekends were a time for sporting events, exploring the countryside, and visiting the
local community.
The fledgling state park
movement received a needed boost from the CCC. The CCC men helped our young state park
system emerge fully developed, ready to meet the needs of a growing population. Many of
the facilities built by CCC men in Washington State Parks are still in use by park
visitors and staff today.
The CCC built most of the
structures in the following 11 state parks in Washington:
Beacon Rock
Deception Pass
Ginkgo
Lewis and Clark
Millersylvania
Moran
Mt. Spokane
Rainbow Falls
Riverside
Saltwater
Twanoh
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