During the Great Depression from 1933 to 1936 a racially integrated unit of the Civilian Conservation Corps known as Company 818 built a series of trails through Grand Canyon National Park. Established to provide financial security for the unemployed, the CCC helped its participants learn valuable trade skills while protecting the integrity of the natural environment. But Black members of Company 818 faced additional challenges compared to their white counterparts due to pervasive racism. They often encountered segregated living quarters, unequal treatment, and limited opportunities for advancement. But these men persevered and made significant contributions to various conservation projects. A man named John Scotts was a prominent leader of Company 818 who not only rallied the spirits and enthusiasm of his compatriots but was credited with saving the lives of new recruits by pulling them from path of falling rocks. This crew built the Colorado River Trail, which still stands today.
The Joy Trip Project celebrates the enduring legacy of Black American History. The Unhidden Minute is part of the Unhidden Podcast Project supported through a National Geographic Explorer Grant from the National Geographic Society, with the cooperation of the National Park Service. This series elevates the untold stories of Black American historical figures, events and cultural contributions.
#unhiddenblackhistory #NationalParkService #yourparkstory #NationalGeographic #unhiddenminute
Company 818 of The Civilian Conservation Corps