Honoring Cacapon Resort State Park’s Unique CCC History
Cacapon Resort State Park is on the National Register of Historic Places, because it is a rare example of the impeccable workmanship of the Civilian Conservation Corps. Many of the structures and features built by the men who participated in this program still stand, including the old lodge, the bathhouse, cabins, picnic shelters, and the superintendent’s residence. The overall landscape plan has roads and trails that are sympathetic to the topography in the forest. Careful placement of recreation resources in tight clusters tucked in wooded areas and using rough natural materials allowed buildings and structures to be unobtrusive and not detract from their natural setting and appearance, providing visual harmony.
Given the importance of the park, and it’s well thought out setting, we will fight to ensure that all bidders complete a Section 106 Review, as is required by law, to ensure Cacapon State Park’s historic structures and landscape architecture is not irreversibly damaged.
A Brief History of the Park
In the 1920s, the state of West Virginia purchased the land that would become Cacapon State Park and started developing it as a public recreation area. However, it was during the 1930s that the park truly began to take shape thanks to the efforts of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a federal work relief program created as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal.
The CCC was tasked with developing the park’s infrastructure, and they built many of its signature features, including the old lodge, cabins, and trails, using local materials and traditional building techniques. They also worked on conservation projects, such as reforestation and erosion control, to preserve the park’s natural beauty. During World War II, the park was used as a training ground for soldiers, and in the post-war years, it became a popular destination for families seeking a retreat from city life.
The Civilian Conservation Corps was a groundbreaking New Deal program that provided employment to millions of young men during the Great Depression. These dedicated workers not only supported their families during one of America’s most challenging periods but also contributed to the development and conservation of our nation’s public lands. Cacapon Resort State Park stands as a testament to their efforts, showcasing their craftsmanship and determination in every stone and timber.