Council Fire Renovations Underway

In 2019, we announced a much needed renovation of the Council Fire area of camp. While this area is one of our wonderful “untouched” corners of the property, it is showing it’s age. The benches keep breaking and being replaced in a haphazard manner, and new benches have been added in awkward places. The rock fire pit is crumbling, and we are literally “crammed” into a space that wasn’t sized appropriately for our current campers. We knew it needed some work!

Our first plan was to “go big” and recreate the space with rocks: rock benches with ample spacing in an amphitheater-style setting. The architect’s imagination went wild, and we bought into the vision! But, when COVID shut us down in 2020, we lost the financial means to complete such a big job.

Thinking about the Council Fire renovation during the long “dead” summer of 2020, we became convinced that the elaborate renovation didn’t add to the experience of the place and might even take away from the intimate feeling that we love so much when gathered together. We wondered if the campers in the back rows would even hear what was being said, and we know many of you alumnae have such a strong connection to the Coucil Fire space as it is now. So, we re-evaluated, spending time with our Head Staff and maintenance team to develop a new plan. We are breaking ground this fall!

As of now, here is where the project stands:

• All benches have been removed.
• The rock “chair” and surrounding bench will not be touched in any way; they are perfect already.
• Matching rock columns will be built at the entrance, including the bronze plaque recognizing those campers, counselors, and alumnae who contributed to the Great Day Fund in our 100th year.
• The fire “pit” area will be restored using the same rocks that have served that purpose for over 100 years.
• All benches will be replaced with very nice stained and varnished custom-milled thick oak planks arranged to allow a wide center aisle and side access.
• Significant landscaping is in the works to enhance the feeling of the tall trees that surround the area.

Our Council Fire time continues to provide a favorite moment of the camp experience. We recognize that this moment deserves a place that shows our respect and appreciation. A place that feels special and feels well-maintained. This renovation will be celebrated for another 100 years. With that in mind, we can’t wait to give you a tour!