Surprise visitors. Some of the original Latvian kids – campers from the 1960s – stopped by last weekend with a stack of photos, some super 8 – and a whole lot of stories. We are just beginning to peel back the layers of history through the gift of their time and memories. (Photos feature members of the Berzins, Velkme, Students, and Strods families, among others).Already found a bakers dozen details that we want to bring back. Well be sharing them as we crack open the archives. (Including film footage of the archbishop blessing the property in 1961).For now, starting with a handful of tiny details that were obsessing over:.- The upper compartment of the old smoker is a salvaged ice box/fridge.- The T-shirt on the guy is the Latvian-era spelling of Wandawega (Latvians dont have a W sound in their language).- The beach used to have a built in boardwalk and retaining wall – The beach was so big it looked like a sand dune – Circa 1972, the entrance fence with the Latvian star motif is erected by volunteers – The 1960s swim trunks and logo on the potato chip box – the RV parking where the shower house now sits – The tiny orange canvas life vest by the home made dock (we found this one in the basement when we purchased camp) – The bunkhouse reveals its old colors: brown and yellow.

June 26, 2024 • Published by Tereasa Surratt • Instagram