Although Iowa is a state that is predominantly known for its agricultural history, there is a strong history within the conservation and preservation movements. During the fall of 2001 the Iowa Department of Natural Resources began an oral history project to document the contributions of the Civilian Conservation Corps, its members, and their stories in Iowa during the 1930s and 1940s. Since that time several hundred surviving members have been identified, and to date more than 125 have been interviewed. In most cases interviews were taped or even video recorded and are transcribed to help preserve their stories for generations to come. Many of the participants have provided photographs and countless other documents and personal mementos for the Iowa CCC Museum located at Backbone State Park near Manchester, Iowa.
We hope you enjoy the opportunity to visit with some of our CCCers via their pictures and stories that are included here.