May 09, 2024
Girl Scout Camp Continues to Grow in the 1970s
Camp Alice Chester is turning 100 this year! Take a trip back in time to learn more about Girl Scout camping history in southeastern Wisconsin through the decades.
Half a century after its founding, Camp Alice Chester continued to grow in the 1970s.
In 1970, the Robinhood and Trailblazer A-frames were constructed (these newer A-frames are still used today!), and in 1975, a larger ranger and site manager home was introduced to the property. Later in the decade, five platform tent units, two additional A-frame cabin units, and one Adirondack unit were brought to camp and the hiking trail around Swan Lake was completed.
Alongside the property additions, Girl Scouts established some of campers’ current favorite traditions. Archery, stargazing, canoeing, hiking, swimming, and cookouts were part of campers’ programming. Campers also learned how to make sand candles, wood burned plaques, created leather and telephone friendship bracelets, built nature sculptures, and tie-dyed clothing. If campers wanted their annual camp sweatshirt as a keepsake, they bought it from the business manager at the Lodge on the first day of the session. This inspired the Trading Post years later.
Campers ventured during the 1970s too! Campers often hiked across the street to Oak Knoll for overnights, where they learned how to roll their sleeping bags, pitch pup tents, and plan and cook meals.
Back at camp, religious services were offered during this decade. Camp Alice Chester provided Roman Catholic, Protestant, and Jewish religious services when Girl Scouts were at camp on Sunday mornings during two-week sessions. Staff woke up campers who placed a sock on their mosquito net the previous night to attend the early service.
Campers weren’t the only ones creating camp traditions! Staff who remained at Camp Alice Chester between sessions celebrated a “buffalo toss” tradition. Staff were required to bring fifteen pieces of split wood for admission, which they used to build a roaring fire in the Lodge. Staff tossed a few large beef steaks onto the coals and once removed, they feasted on the steaks, along with salad and baked potatoes baked in cans of rock salt.
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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.
