The men of the Civilian Conservation Corps

The men of the Civilian Conservation Corps. . This sign is part of the Letchworth State Park CCC Legacy Pathway honoring the Civilian Conservation Corps (1933–1942), a federal works project designed to relieve unemployment and conserve natural resources during the Great Depression. , The following was written by Camp Superintendent Harley L. Potter in an official report on November 30, 1934. Although he was describing the enrollees in his Big Bend Camp 23, the sentiments could be applied to CCC “Boys” everywhere. "Our constant association with the men of the Civilian Conservation Corps, both in the camp and in the field, has taught us much. These men, taken from all walks of life and from all parts of the country, have shown a remarkable adaptability to environment and environmental conditions. Their tasks have not been easy, nor, in many instances, very pleasant, yet they have shown great fortitude and the strength of the old pioneer in carrying on regardless of obstacles. Many have doubted the possibility of the Civilian Conservation Corps. However, it is our opinion that through it we are building up both physically and morally a generation of men who will carry out those principles which have made this a great nation. These benefits, immeasurable though they may be, will far outlive the material constructions of the field.”