PLM Virtual Programs- African-American CCC Camps in PA’s State Forests and Parks- 02/24/21

The Civilian Conservation Corps program was a tremendous benefit to the citizens of Pennsylvania. Second only to California in the total number of in-state camps (n=153), the Commonwealth’s parks and forests benefited in multiple ways, from facilities to forest conservation. Lesser known among this history is the role of African-Americans in the CCC program. Known as “colored” camps in their day, they were almost always administered and led by white officers and leaders. In some areas, local communities welcomed them, while others fought to keep them out.
This virtual program was led by Paul T. Fagley, Environmental Education Specialist at Greenwood Furnace State Park. PLM staff also shared images and objects from the museum’s collection relative to the CCC in Pennsylvania. There are some technical errors in this video due to a poor internet connection during the recording of the original Zoom program; apologies.

[@ben_greenman]

Great presentation, thank you!