A Look Back – Camp Alice Chester in the 1950s
“What wonderful memories that help us as we age – the friendship, the songs that we still hum while cleaning the house, the Girl Scout Promise and Law that we try to live by as best we can. Thank you Girl Scouting for being there for me,” said a 1950s Girl Scout camper.
Camping continued to grow as a beloved Girl Scout tradition in the 1950s.
As the demand for Girl Scout camping grew, so did Camp Alice Chester. In 1952, the Border Trail Unit was added to the property, and in 1956, the troop house at Chaparral was used for the first time.
Camp programming expanded during the two week sessions too! During this decade, campers were able to experience trips away from camp, ranging from hikes on nearby trails to boat trips around Booth Lake. Older, more experienced campers had opportunities to participate in overnight hikes and longer canoe trips. Senior Girl Scouts could also participate in an Advanced Camping Unit, which offered a primitive camping experience where they ventured to neighboring camps and set up their own campsites. The Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program was established during this decade too. Twelve Girl Scouts who had completed their junior year of high school were part of the inaugural program.
Camp Alice Chester was receiving recognition outside of southeastern Wisconsin too! In 1952, five international Girl Scout encampments were held annually at Camp Alice Chester. World Friendship troops from all over the country experienced camping at the property. In 1959, Lady Baden Powell visited Camp Alice Chester too.
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.
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.
