Friends of History Lecture Series Life in the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression in New Mexico

Of all the New Deal agencies of the Great Depression era, the Civilian Conservation Corps was the most popular and, many would argue, the most successful. Richard Melzer’s lecture will focus on the importance of the CCC in New Mexico as a whole, but especially on the lives of the 54,000 young men who enrolled in the program and served in the state.

Living on their own, getting along with others, learning a strong work ethic, and helping to conserve the environment were some of the most important lessons the men learned. Most considered their CCC experience the turning point of their lives. Surviving the Great Depression, these men were well prepared to help the country win World War II and succeed in the post-war period.

Dr. Richard Melzer is the author, co-author, or editor of two dozen books, as well as over a hundred articles and chapters about New Mexico history.

He is a past president of the Historical Society of New Mexico and the Valencia County Historical Society.  Among his many awards he has received for writing, teaching, and service is the University of New Mexico’s Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award.

Free Auditorium event. Bottled water only please.

Seating is limited, and on a first-come first-served basis, with doors opening at approximately 11:30am.