Texas has some of the most beautiful state parks in the nation, but few visitors know the story behind their construction or the men who built them. In his book - Parks for Texas. Enduring Landscapes of the New Deal - author and historian James Steely tells a fascinating story about the birth of the Texas State Park System, the Civilian Conservation Corps and one of the Great Depression's lasting legacies.

Producer Kathleen Jenkins talked with Steely about his new book in 1999 for a Passport to Texas radio feature.

Click on a speaker to hear excerpts from our interview.

Describe the subject of your book? (1:16)

What was the purpose of the Civilian Conservation Corps and what impact did the Corps have on Texas parks? (:53)

In addition to the history of parks in Texas, what other information is contained in the book? (:15)

Is there anything more you would like people to know about this topic? (:53)

About the Author: James Wright Steely is an author and former Chief Historian of the Texas Historical Commission.

Contact information:
Parks for Texas. Enduring Landscapes of the New Deal
University of Texas Press
P.O. Box 7819
Austin, TX 78713-7819

Handbook of Texas Online
Pat Neff, State Parks Board, Civilian Conservation Corp, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Texas Historical Commission