Duke's Civilian Public Service Camp #61
On October 16, 1940, the Civilian Public Service (CPS) was established as an alternative to military conscription for conscientious objectors. These men who declined military service due to religious beliefs were placed in CPS camps, or units, across the United States and given jobs on the home front to help support the war effort. They worked in soil conservation, forestry, firefighting, agriculture, social services, and mental health. In all, there were 152 CPS camps – or units – throughout the U.S., including one at Duke University.
The Civilian Public Service Camp #61 was established in December 1942. The camp originally had thirty members who worked at Highland Hospital, Meyer Ward, and in the operating rooms at Duke University Hospital. While most of the CPS workers had some higher education experience, none of them had prior training or work experience in hospitals before coming to Duke. This exhibit explores the experiences of the CPS Camp #61 members, their interactions with the larger Duke medical community, and the camp’s legacy.
