The CCC (Civilian Conservation Corp) was created in early 1933 and was the most popular of all New Deal programs. It provided employment for young men between the ages of 17 and 24 in military style camps. Each participant was paid $5.00 per month and $25.00 was sent back to his family. The three goals of the program were job training, conservation work and aid for families. There are few states or national parks that do not have trails, roads or cabins built by the CCC. During the 9 years of operation the CCC planted over three billion trees. Because most of the young men had never been far from home before there was a considerable amount of homesickness. Men were generally sent far from their homes to discourage runaways.
This song comes to us from a field recording made by Margaret Valiant and sung by Jimmie Collins. On the field recording he states that the song was taught to him by “a boyfriend” from Texas. This version is by The 198 String Band.
Men were generally sent far from their homes to discourage runaways.
Do you have a source on this?
I’d like to know if it’s possible to get the lyrics to “CCC Blues ” as sung by Jimmy Collins.
Looking forward to hear fro you I remain Yours Sincerely .
Luigi Erba
v. Sempione 10
20900 Monza MB
Italy
Dear Tom , I’m wondering if I can possibly get some notes about Jimmie Collins biography and the date of the recording of her rendition of this tune ( may be 1937 or 1939 ? ) and some notes about The 198 String Band ( are they still in activity ? )
Besides it seemns to me that the lyrics are covering 6 of the 8 verses of the record .
Is it possible to get the missing verses ?
Beg your pardon if I’m bother you again.
I’ll be very grateful to you.
My warmest regards
Luigi Erba
Monza – Italy