The New Deal Civilian Conservation Corps and Works Progress Administration were unemployment relief programs created in the early 1930s.
Adapting to its role of armor mechanized training, Fort Knox found that the relief and funding programs provided invaluable support as the installation grew. The federal government stood up CCC units, like Company 545, to provide needed support. In turn the installation was able to support the programs, especially as an induction center for CCC enrollees.
Train loads of young men arrived to the post for two weeks of in-processing, during which time they received immunizations, clothing and training before shipment to camps at various locations around the country. In addition to supplying housing for the enlisted personnel, the post provided areas and shelter for the New Deal workers.
Participants in the CCC were often quartered in tent cities. Fort Knox laid a firm foundation to its historic significance with its development as a major and permanent Army installation in the 1930s. New Deal workers are included in the credits.
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