Life in Camp

Adjusting to life in camp was a challenge for many new Civilian Conservation Corps recruits. The strict military routines and discipline of the Corps often made the transition from home more difficult. New friends, square meals, new clothing, improved job skills, and the security of a paycheck to send home helped workers to adapt.

New recruits were young men, often with little education and few skills. CCC camps provided educational opportunities to learn skills that would help them to find employment after their term of service.

Perhaps most memorable, however, were the recreational offerings at the camps. R. John Buskowiak appreciated the camp recreation halls as a quiet place to read, grab a snack, or write letters home. Alfred E. Nelson enjoyed the team sports and the opportunity to take advantage of nearby lakes and rivers for swimming and boating. C.J. Knoblauch recalled the colorful camp cook, who ruled his dining room with an iron fist. Clair T. Rollings, Educational Advisor, remembered the practical jokes played on new recruits.

Citations:

• Document: Handbook of Instruction for enrollees, Civilian Conservation Corps Company 3707, Camp 5-53, Two Harbors, Minn., 1939.
• Buskowiak, R. John, My Days in the C.C.C.’s. MHS Manuscripts Collection, 1993.
• Nelson, Alfred, E. (Irv); Stanley Johnson, Interviewer, Oral History Interview. MHS Oral History Collection.
• Knoblauch, C.J., author; Stanley Johnson, Collector, NIRA [National Industrial Recovery Act]. Papers Regarding CCC camps in the Chippewa National Forest, 1933-1937. MHS Manuscripts Collection.
• Rollings, Clair T., author; Stanley Johnson, Collector, History of Company 708 Civilian Conservation Corps. Papers Regarding CCC camps in the Chippewa National Forest, 1933-1937, MHS Manuscripts Collection.