A Little Greystone History

You could probably name off a handful of reasons you chose to work at Greystone this summer - maybe you attended as a camper (or had friends who did!), got excited about teaching in a unique activity area we offer, or were drawn to the fact that we’re a Christ-centered camp. No matter how you made your decision, we’re willing to bet that Greystone’s rich history wasn’t the top reason you signed your contract (unless it was? If so, we’d LOVE to talk to you!).

But now that you’re officially a member of our team, you are now a (very important!) part of that history as you join us in continuing this meaningful work and enjoying the same traditions that campers and counselors have participated in for over 100 years. You’ll learn more about Greystone during Orientation and will catch on quickly to all the lingo and traditions once you’re here (so don’t stress!), but here are a few things to know about this camp in ole Tuxedo:

1. Greystone was founded by a Presbyterian minister (Jimboy’s and Katie’s Great-Grandfather!) in 1920 to teach girls to swim. Dr. Sevier had a vision for a girls’ camp, and took a big risk to make it happen. Our timeline tells the whole, incredible story of how Greystone grew and changed and God’s provision through it all (including a lot of funny fashion choices!).
2. 100 years of history has led to a lot of traditions. Some are deep and meaningful (like our Vespers Evening Program), and some are small and silly (we call the water faucet in the Kitchen the “Fountain of Youth!”), but they all form this incredible thread that connects Greystone Girls throughout the generations, and now connect to you, our 2022 staff! Our Greystone Dictionary will give you a good overview of what to expect this summer, but just know that you will love being a part of our traditions at camp.
3. We turned 100 a few years ago, but we’re nowhere near stopping! We commemorated that milestone in so many ways (including telling you all about the greatest hits of each decade and 100 things that make Greystone what it is) that culminated in a huge Alumnae Reunion that fall (many of the attendees were on staff at one point, just like you!). The video below captures the spirit of our history so well by focussing on what matters most: the generations of girls impacted and the God whose faithfulness made it all possible!

As usual, we can’t say it better than Jimboy did, in his letter to our community during our 100th Anniversary:

“As we look back on 100 wonderful years, it is abundantly clear that Greystone’s success is a work of the Lord. God has put his hand of blessing and protection on this miracle in the mountains: keeping its community safe, adding to its property, and expanding its facility so that camp survived wars, epidemics, depressions, and social upheaval. The blessings He has lavished on Greystone through the years are remarkable.

Camp is good. It was good for the girls in the 1920s, and it is still good for the girls today. Much has changed over the years, but the essence of the camp experience remains the same. Making friends, practicing unselfishness, gaining confidence, and feeling your “true self” while at Greystone – all of these things transcend the decades. Each of the girls who are drawn to camp are bright, golden threads in the tapestry that God is weaving for His glory. We are honored to be used as a blessing in their lives and a witness to the world.”