The Civilian Conservation Corps camp was active in Cleveland, Virginia, from 1934 until World War II brought this program to an end. Working closely with TVA and the US Forest Service, the men of CCC Camp Dixie restored eroded hillsides, ditching and planting trees. They also trained in various trade skills that would prepare them for future employment. A full detail of men numbered around 175.

About half of the men came from Russell or surrounding counties, but many arrived in this little rural town from large cities such as Pittsburgh and New York. Saturday night dances at the camp certainly attracted the local girls. The men often found sweethearts and eventually wives in and around Cleveland.

A camp newspaper was published monthly and several of the issues are preserved on microfiche. I have extracted the names of enrollees and commanding officers from these issues, dating between 1936 and 1938, and they appear below. Please contact me if you find a relative here or have names to add. I may have more information for you. Kathy Shearer: clinchmtn@gmail.com