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From Mother to Daughter: Camp Traditions
We’re celebrating Camp Alice Chester’s 100th anniversary in 2024! As we look toward the next 100 years of Girl Scout camping in southeastern Wisconsin, we’re looking back at some of our favorite Girl Scout camp memories – including yours.
The tradition of Girl Scout camping is often passed down from generation to generation.
In 1946, Girl Scout alum Jessie Franz attended a transformative two-week session at Camp Alice Chester overnight camp, where she discovered a love of singing camp songs, swimming, and the great outdoors.
She passed the beloved tradition along to her daughter, Nancy Franz, who attended camp at Camp Alice Chester in 1971, as well as plenty of summer camps at nearby Melody Woods Day Camp and Camp Northern Hills.
Some of Nancy’s favorite summer camp memories include camp cooking and lakeside living.
“I loved making homemade ice cream! We would sit the ice cream freezer on a sit-upon and crank until it was ready,” said Nancy.
“I also loved living in the Gypsy Unit platform tents along the lake. One night, we lit our tent with fireflies in a jar,” continued Nancy.
Similar to her mother, Nancy also loved camp music and the water.
“I remember warm nights folk dancing in the Lodge and so much wonderful singing!” said Nancy. “I also remember learning to swim from Timber, the Waterfront Director.”
Camp’s impact continued in Nancy’s life.
“My love for nature was partially birthday at Camp Alice Chester and Melody Woods Day Camp. I loved it all, and I still volunteer with Girl Scout camps,” said Nancy.
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.
