1960s Camp Memories: Valuable Learning Experiences
Happy birthday, Camp Alice Chester! We’re celebrating Camp Alice Chester’s 100th birthday by looking back at Girl Scout camp history and the Girl Scouts who shaped it.
Did Girl Scout camp impact your life – at Camp Alice Chester or another property? Do you have a favorite camp memory? Did you meet forever friends at camp? We want to hear from you! We’re sharing our members, alumni, staff, and supporters’ favorite camp memories all year to celebrate the legacy of Girl Scout camping – and how it is paving the path forward for a future of nature exploration, independence, resilience, and friendship.
Fill out this form to share your story with GSWISE today.
Girl Scout camping continued to grow in popularity throughout southeastern Wisconsin into the 1960s. Among the thriving properties was Trefoil Oaks Program Center in Kenosha, which hosted day camp.
Girl Scout alum, lifetime member, and leader of Alumnae Troop #1934 Barbara Albeck Vallone was one of the many campers visiting Trefoil Oaks during the decade.
“The best thing that happened in the 1960s was Trefoil Oaks Day Camp!” said Barbara, a troop leader at the time.
“I had no car, but the school bus picked us up at Jerstad [Jerstad-Agerholm] School a block away. My daughter got to go to camp, my son could stay in the Camp Pixie Unit, and I got paid $1 a day!” said Barbara.
Day camp in the 1960s shares similarities with day camp today. Girl Scouts had the chance to explore nature, cook over a fire, and learn classic camp songs.
“Day Camp was such fun. The girls got to learn about nature, sleeping outside, using pit toilets, cooking food over a campfire, and singing songs!” said Barbara.
The family bond at Trefoil Oaks continued over time for Barbara – and many other alum.
“My son loved it and wanted to be a Girl Scout. I worked at Trefoil Oaks for several summers and finally became assistant director with my daughter Sheri,” said Barbara.
While camp is fun for Girl Scouts, it’s also fun for volunteers and staff, who have the unique opportunity to see Girl Scouts grow, learn, and thrive in the outdoors.
“Camp was such a great learning experience for the girls AND the leaders,” said Barbara.
Fill out this form to share your story with GSWISE today.
P.S.: Save the date for October 5, 2024. We’re hosting a can’t-miss Camporee at Camp Alice Chester so you can enjoy your favorite camp activities with the whole family! More details coming soon.
