NC Cultural Resources Newsroom

RALEIGH — On Tuesday, Feb. 12, at 2 p.m., Mars Hill College will honor the publication of  “‘That Magnificent Army of Youth and Peace’: The Civilian Conservation Corps in North Carolina, 1933–1942,” by Dr. Harley E. Jolley, professor emeritus of history at the college.  The book celebrates preserving natural and human resources.

Millions of young men lost to hopelessness and despair during the depths of the Great Depression were given hope and purpose with the creation of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1933.  The program created by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and the U.S. Congress set the men, ages 18 to 25, to the task of restoring land wasted by over farming, clear cut timbering and erosion.  The beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, Blue Ridge Parkway and Cape Hatteras Lighthouse recreational areas demonstrate the success of their efforts.

In this 75th anniversary year of the creation of the CCC, “That Magnificent Army of Youth and Peace” preserves the experiences of a special group of young men who worked together at a dark time in the nation’s history to create something that would benefit not only themselves but also future generations.

At the event Dr. Jolley will speak on the establishment of the CCC in North Carolina, share stories of camp life, and examine the accomplishments of the Corps. A reception and book signing will follow the presentation.

Dr. Harley E. Jolley served on the faculty at Mars Hill College for 42 years. He received a bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State University, a master’s degree from the University of Tennessee, and a doctorate from Florida State University. Dr. Jolley is the author of several award-winning books on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

For additional information, contact Bill Owens at (919) 733-7442, ext. 225.  or bill.owens@ncmail.net.  Published by the Historical Publications Section of the Office of Archives and History, N.C. Department of Cultural Resources, “That Magnificent Army of Youth and Peace” highlights the Department of Cultural Resources’ theme for 2008—“Telling Our Stories.”

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