CCC Artifacts Sought

The Mount Horeb Area Museum is seeking the donation of artifacts, manuscripts and photos pertaining to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) that had camps located at Mt. Horeb.

The CCC was introduced under the Roosevelt administration to put to work mostly unmarried men between the ages of 17 and 21 years of age during the Great Depression. The United States Army was responsible for these men, except for the hours from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., during which time they were turned over to the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) technical staff, comprised of engineers, foresters, and agronomists, who set up and supervised work projects for the young men. Many of these projects in southwestern Dane County consisted of the construction of erosion preventing dams.

The camp at Mt. Horeb was one of the only camps to be located in Dane County. The year 2009 marks the 75th anniversary of the camp. To celebrate this milestone, the Mt. Horeb Area Historical Society is planning an exhibit and a companion book, and has applied to the Dane County Cultural Affairs Commission seeking a grant to make this possible. If the grant comes through, the exhibit and book would premiere in late spring in the Centennial Gallery and Museum Store of the Mt. Horeb Area Museum.

In preparation, and for the betterment of the Museum’s holdings, the Historical Society in putting forth a plea for artifacts relating to the CCC of southwestern Dane County. Sought are photos of activities and individuals of the camp, newspaper clippings, and other paper manuscripts. Artifacts, such as shovels, picks, clothing, mess kits, bedrolls, patches, personal effects, a bed, chairs, a table, kitchen equipment, items made by camp members, and even building components from the Mt. Horeb camp are desired.

If you have such items, or know of someone who does, contact Laurie Boyden on Mondays at 608-437-6486, or 437-8901.

Making the Cultural & History Center a Reality

We are presently raising money for the purchase of land in downtown Mt. Horeb in which to situate the Cultural & History Center. We are depending on a broad range of support, starting right here at home. If you are proud of where you live and want others to learn about you, your cultural offerings, or the rich history of southwestern Dane County, then look below for exciting ways to contribute. If you have left the area and have fond memories you wish to see preserved, we need you as well. If you are new to the area and want to meet dynamic and fun people, then welcome aboard!

Click on the Above Photograph to Find Out Ways You Can Help.

These pages are updated regularly, you are welcome to send related articles, rembrances or photos to be posted. This site is a service of the Mt. Horeb Area Historical Society and is created to promote local history. The Society relies on memberships and donations to fund this and other educational services. Won't you consider a donation?

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