Learn history of Civilian Conservation Corps at Fullersburg Woods

Take a stroll through the rich history of a DuPage County forest preserve that was once home to a Civilian Conservation Corps camp at "History Happened Here" at Fullersburg Woods.

The tour will be led by district historian education outreach specialist Chris Gingrich from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 11, at Fullersburg Woods, 3609 Spring Road, Oak Brook. The walk is $3 per person and is open to all ages, but adults should accompany children younger than 18. Visitors can register online or at (630) 933-7248.

"Fullersburg Woods and McDowell Grove (Forest Preserve) each housed CCC camps and many of the trails, shelters and other improvements those men built are still used by visitors today," Gingrich said. "Prior to the CCC most of the preserves had minimal facilities for visitors to enjoy."

On his tours, Gingrich uses historic photos, maps and the natural landscape to tell the story of how the CCC, a product of President Franklin Roosevelt's New Deal, left its mark on the preserves.

"Our preserves hold a rich history and the CCC played a large part in making what McDowell and Fullersburg offer today," said Forest Preserve District of DuPage County President Joe Cantore.

"I am excited that the district provides DuPage County residents this opportunity to delve into the rich, colorful history of our preserves," said Forest Preserve District Commissioner Jeff Redick, District 2.