CAMP MINNE-WAWA SK 605 ' : MINN I For Boys and Young Men In the Ontario Highlands LAKE OF TWO RIVERS Algonquin Provincial Park Ontario, Canada Copyright 19 is, W. L.Wise .A i RIGHT LIVING CLEAN THINKING CHARACTER BUILDING MAR 29 (315 ©CI, A 3 9 7319 % ■ CAMP MINNE-WAWA A SUMMER CAMP FOR BOYS Established in 191 1 by W. L. Wise, Ph.B., Syracuse University, Professsor of English Language and Literature at the Bordentown Military Institute, New Jersey and Colonel T. D. Landon, Viee-Prineipal and Commandant of Bordentown Military Institute (Minne-Wawa is now under exclusive control and direction of W. L. Wise) Mr. N. W. Fradd, Springfield Training School, Physical Director of Bordentown Military Institute, is Physical Director of the Camp. The corps of assistants are teachers, selected for their fitness in working with boys, combined with adaptability to Woods' Life conditions. 3 The life at Camp Minne-Wawa is a perfectly natural life. The canoe trips we consider as being especially beneficial because of the fact that the boys share in the work and the responsibility. On these trips the boy helps paddle, helps portage, helps get meals, helps make camp, and, in short, comes to look upon himself as one of a group of citizens, working harmoniously to a common end. He works hard, eats like a young animal, sleeps soundly, and experiences the joys of a primitive explorer. His tent falls down some stormy night, but he puts it up more firmly the next; in the school of experience he learns the lessons of self-control and self-dependence. He learns to feel the beauty of nature; the splendor of dawn and the glory of departing day each has a message for him that cannot fail to leave an impression. He observes for himself a lesson not taught and receives a sermon not preached, both of which will affect him as long as he continues to think. Information to Patrons ALGONQUIN PROVINCIAL PARK ALGONQUIN PROVINCIAL PARK is a preserve maintained by the Province of /-\ Ontario, Canada. It is approximately fifty miles square and contains upwards of twelve hundred lakes and streams. It ranges in altitude from sixteen hundred to two thousand feet above sea level. The park is two hundred miles north of Toronto and one hundred and seventy west of Ottawa. In this preserve is found a diversity of splendid scenery, in a wild state, a variety of animal life, protected by an efficient force of Rangers, and, for the lover of fishing, an ex- cellent opportunity for taking the wily trout and the gamy black bass. The lakes are relatively small and severe storms consequently very infrequent. The canoeist may go from one boundary to another without encountering dangerous water. For detailed information concerning the Park and a map of the region, a Grand Trunk publication, called "Algonquin National Park," may be obtained from Mr. F. P. Dwyer, 290 Broadway, New York City, N. Y. ; Mr. H. M. Morgan, 285 Main Street, Buffalo, N. Y. ; Mr. C. G. Orttenburger, 301 S. Clark St., Chicago, 111., or from Mr. E. H. Boynton, 256 Washington St., Boston, Mass. 5 WHY ALGONQUIN PARK? Occasionally the question is asked, "Why go so far away?" One of the attractions of a Summer Camp is that it is located away from the evil in- fluences of city or town in a place where the environment is still primitive and wholesome. In the Eastern United States particularly, it is increasingly difficult to find such places. In much of our forest and lake country the canoeist is repeatedly annoyed by requests to move on, and cannot pitch his tent where he would desire because of inhospitable owners of such sites. In Canada this is not the case. Algonquin Park is a regular network of beautiful lakes and splendid forest, where camping parties may roam at will. The soil is not adapted to farming, and the Provincial Government of Ontario has set the region apart for the pleasure of the Nature lover. Here he may roam for days amid wild, natural scenery, and no one will question his right to camp where he likes as long as he observes a decent and proper relation to his surroundings. In point of distance, the Park is but twenty-three hours from New York City or Boston and fourteen from Buffalo. CAMP LOCATION Camp Minne-Wawa itself is located on the Lake of Two Rivers, in the southern part of the Park. It is at the end of a small bay, in a clearing of about ten acres, partly grown up with wild cherry. Originally a lumber camp occupied the spot; later a company of trappers used the place as a headquarters; then for several years it was abandoned. We were for- tunate to be able to lease the place, for level cleared places are very scarce in the Park. 6 A commodious frame building has been erected in which are the dining room, kitchen, photographic dark room, storage quarters, etc., with a wide porch overlooking the lake. A professional cook is in charge of the kitchen, and an abund- ance of wholesome and palat- able food satisfies the keen appetites which the outdoor life gives. An ice-house is also a part of the camp property. A number of fruit trees of vari- ous kinds have been set out in one part of the clearing. On the opposite shore of the lake are the tracks of the Ottawa Division of the Grand Trunk Railway. There are two trains daily in each direc- tion. While there is no regular station, trains stop at Camp Minne-Wawa Landing to dis- charge and take on passengers Spring at Minne-Wawa „ ■ ••--' i ■ ^v c Lis*; &< i "'■'- ■'■;■■•■ \; 1 if ft \ ?:\*: ,. ■'■s. ■ ■ ■ I - x ' ' > ■ ! >.- ' \ • ■''■ ». - ' '-- >J i """""" ^ - ' 1 i i" i ; ♦ ..." for the camp. Here, too, by a special ar- rangement with the postal service, mail is thrown off twice each day. The place thus offers a fine combination of the conveni- ences of the town, with the beauty and attractiveness of living close to Nature. HEALTHFUL CONDITIONS It would be difficult to find a more healthful locality than Algonquin Park. To begin with it is higher in altitude than any other part of Ontario. Then the air possesses a tonic quality. The winds are princi- pally from the north and west, and the air is purified to the highest degree by its passage over millions of square miles of forest in which pine and balsam predominate. Aside from the conditions named above, some contributory causes to a wholesome and health giving outing are as follows: 1. The sanitary arrangements of the camp, disposal of refuse, etc., are carefully and constantly inspected. 2. The water supply is from a spring some distance from the camp which is protected from any danger of pollution. Oft for the Black Bass 3. Boys sleep in tents, on raised platforms. Dampness is avoided by the platforms which permits the passage of air beneath the tents. Each boy has a spring cot and com- fortable mattress. 4. A definite routine with regular hours for meals, exercise, and sleep, is followed. 5. Food is wholesome, plentiful, well prepared, and attractively served, under the direction of a professional cook. PHYSICIAN AVAILABLE Dr. A. N. Kitt, of Whitney, Ontario, a near-by lumbering town, can be communicated with and brought to the camp in a comparatively short time in any case of emergency that might arise. EXCELLENT CARE IN CAMP Mr. and Mrs. Wise have had an extended experience in working with young people. Mrs. Wise is in camp throughout the season, and has an eye to the comfort and welfare of the younger boys particularly. The councillors are men chosen for their fitness for the work. Minne-Wawa boys are constantly under the care of college men, versed in wood-craft, and in sympathy with boy nature. SUNDAY OBSERVANCE Sunday is observed as a quiet day in camp. A Vesper service is held which affords a fitting opportunity for talks on character building by councillors or visitors. Sometimes the Director arranges to have messages read from the Home Folks or from members of the 9 ([^^^^■S^H hB f 55||S 4 *" : ' -•'**■' >W. Hk ■ Faculties of the schools represented. These messages have proved very inter- esting and helpful. Letter-writing takes up some time Sundays also. It is insisted that each boy write home at least once each week. POINTS OF INTEREST Proceeding past the spring into the forest, one comes presently to a series of beaver dams built across a small stream, a fine place to observe the habits of this cunning worker amid his wild, natural surroundings. A trail has been blazed back into the woods from this point for about two miles. It leads up an ascent to high ground, free from the underbrush which is common to the lower sections. On this upland are found some fine old trees, apparently missed by the force that lumbered the region. Pine, hard maple, ash, beech, black birch and other varieties are represented. The views along this shaded woodland trail more than repay one for the toil of following it. From a point across the lake a second trail leads from Two Rivers over an eminence and down into a valley where Provoking Lake lies. For a fishing lake it is not a success. The fellow who named it doubtless had good reason for his selection. The walk over the trail, 10 Results of a Lake Louisa Trip however, and the wild, rugged beauty of the lake are both delightful. At the head of the lake is another old lumber camp and clearing. A number of log buildings, placed here and there with some degree of arrangement, recall the life of the lumberman in days gone by. In fancy one may reconstruct the decaying buildings and fill them again with the boisterous groups of lumber-jacks, whom the freedom of forest life enticed to the region. The only sign of life now is an occasional porcupine wandering among the tumble-down buildings, or, possibly, a deer stealing to the nearby stream, or nosing about for salt. This camp may be reached by boat or by a trail, leading from Headquarters west, past the open camp and on through a varying growth of timber to the head of the lake. CAMP LIFE AT HEADQUARTERS While at Camp Minne-Wawa several forms of amuse- ment are open to boys. Among these are sailing, bath- ing, paddling, tramping, fishing, baseball or tennis. The 11 Mr. G. W. Collier and His Prize Trout Lake of Two Rivers affords excel- lent fishing. Salmon, speckled trout and black bass, all may be taken without getting out of sight of camp. An open camp, with its cheery friendship fire, offers a delightful gathering place for the evenings. Such pastimes as corn-popping, marshmallow toasting, and an occasional show, help to make the evenings enjoy- able. GAMES Back of the building a few rods is a level space, where ten- nis, baseball and similar sports may be indulged in. The great charm of the life here is, of course, its simplicity, the oppor- tunity to see and do the things one cannot see and do in the city. Occasionally, however, a game of baseball or the like is enjoyable, and for this an open, level space is quite necessary. SWIMMING AND DIVING It is necessary that every boy in camp know how to swim and dive. This is the first result the management works for. A diving and swimming raft, anchored in moderately 12 Everybody In! deep water in front of the camp, is the gathering place for all hands twice daily. To give confidence, the Physical Director first puts a life belt attached to a pole about the novice, and after a few trials, he is kicking about lustily. Boys who desire may learn plain or fancydiving. Mr.Fradd is an expert in swimming and will gladly work with any boys who wish to do advanced work. CANOE TRIPS One of the greatest pleas- ures offered in this region is the canoe trip. This gives boys an opportunity for enjoying real "Woods Life." After the boys have become able to swim and to handle the canoes this work starts. Four or five boys with an adviser usually make up a canoeing party. Two canoes carry the party and the necessary equipment. Early in the season the trips are short; later, as the boys become accustomed to the life, more remote points are visited. Ordinarily, boys spend about half the time in these trips. 13 Butterfly and Jack-knife The last trip of the season is usually made to the northern part of the Park, a most attractive route. It lasts from twelve to eighteen days, and covers over two hundred miles. To measure the enjoyment or benefit of such a trip is impossible. There are, to be sure, some difficulties. The canoes and duffel must be carried about rapids; in the shallow water occasionally all must get out but one, and from the bank shout encouragement to the one as he poles, pulls or pushes the refractory craft through the devious channel ; again a laborious portage up some lumber flume, or from one lake to another, makes one feel that he is earn- ing his passage. At the time these things seem real draw- backs; in memory they stand out as desirable features of the trip. They represent something done, a measuring of strength against the obstacle, and win- ning out. One of the chief sources of pleasure to boys is the acquaint- ance of and association with One of Our Ranger Friends and His Habitation the Park Rangers. Too much 14 cannot be said of the efficiency of this body of men; they are thoroughly devoted to their work, and their fitness is seen in the conditions they maintain in the Park. It is not the purpose of this article, however, to treat on the work or fitness of the Rangers. It is in the relation of friends that we think of them. The boys who have been in the camp for two or three years look forward with the keenest pleasure to renewing acquaintance with these men. Parties on the trail aim to camp near them, and the evenings are spent listening to stories of wood-lore and out door life. From them much of Wood- craft is learned. Minne-Wawa parties make it a point to co-operate with the Rangers in every way, particularly in the matter of fire regu- lations. It is the least we can do, for they have many times helped in suggestion and Sport in the Rough water information; the good turns they have done are numberless. Then there are the attrac- tions also, the hundred and one things seen during the trip which suggest new thoughts, the observation of a great variety of bird and animal life, the beauty of the falls and the rapids, peculiar tree or rock formation, the ever-interesting shore lines of lakes, no two of which are alike. Some of the rapids may be shot without danger, and this sport every boy enjoys. 15 Logging Scenes 16 The lumber flumes, built to facilitate the passage of logs past the rapids, stand as monu- ments of the labor and pains of the men who were pioneers of the region. Incidentally, one gets a very good idea of the difficulties and methods of lumbering. At Cedar Lake is the farm and depot of the Hawkesbury Lumber Company. Here, in a fine grove of Jackpine, the party pitches its tent and recuperates for a day or two. The depleted flour or sugar bag is replenished, and a supply of fresh milk, eggs, bread and potatoes furnishes a variation from the ordinary trip fare, greatly rel- ished by alb The cook of the party even essays a pie or two and some plain cake. Again the passage north- ward is resumed ; the portages are now neither numerous nor burdensome, and Indian Farm, on the shore of Manitou Lake, is easily reached by two or three days' paddling. Here again vege- tables, milk, maple sugar, etc., may be obtained from Ignace Du Fond, Indian fire-ranger, Camping Party at Manitou Lake 17 who had his habitation and clearing here long before the region was converted into a Preserve. Here, too, is an ideal camping spot. Manitou Lake is a perfect gem, on one side a high wooded bluff, on all sides except just at the point of the clearing is the ever- green setting of pine, balsam and the like. A number of small islands scattered about the lake help to produce a fairly idyllic beauty. What could be more inspiring or healthful than a summer's day passed amid such surroundings? Temporary enjoyment is by no means the only result of this experience. The boy point of view is influenced at a period when life-long benefit will result. Everything about it disposes to clean thinking and right living. The "call "of such days and such nights, once felt, can never be forgotten. One feels with Lowell : "Everything is happy now, Everything is upward striving; 'Tis as easy now for the heart to be true As for grass to be green or skies to be blue — 'Tis the natural way ot living." CAMERA WORK Boys are urged to do photographic work. The snaps of scenery and groups are in- teresting, but if a boy is diligent and patient he may obtain some films of animals which are decidedly out of the ordinary. Seldom a day passes on the trip without its sights of deer, feeding at the water's edge; of the sly mink, searching for fish; of the porcupine, scuttling up a tree as fast as its logy 18 nature will permit; occasionally those who visit the more remote lakes see even the moose himself swimming across some stream or lake. Bird life, too, is very much in evi- dence. A student of birds has made a list of nearly one hundred and fifty varieties, seen in the Park during a season. While animals and birds are so numer- ous, anyone who has attempted to take pictures of them knows that it is difficult to get near enough to obtain a satisfactory negative. The boy who has perseverance and patience, however, can get films of which anyone might be proud. There is a keen fascination about this sort of hunting, the only kind permitted in the Park. Some remarkable pictures have been made by members of Camp Minne-Wawa, some by flashlight at night, others by arranging some sort of device so that the animal itself opens the shutter. Both deer and beaver have been taken, by one method or another. At Camp Headquarters a dark room is provided, and ordinary photographic supplies kept on hand. The Director has had considerable experience with amateur photography, and will gladly give any member of the camp advice and assistance. 19 Who Goes There i EQUIPMENT Each boy should have the following articles for his personal use: A double blanket of wool, about eight pounds' weight. In Northern Ontario nights are cool, even in August, and for camp and trip life this weight is most satisfactory. A small pillow with dark cover. Three pairs of outing flannel pajamas. Three flannel or woolen shirts. Sweater or coat-sweater. Pair moccasins or two pairs of tennis shoes. Two or three pairs of extra trousers. Camp is an excellent place to wear out old clothing. Two or three pairs of heavy wool socks. Worn with moccasins, these protect the feet from bruises, etc. Supply of towels and toilet articles. Laundry bag for soiled clothing. A good knife with sheath to be attached to belt. Each boy is required to have his own canoe paddle, which, if desired, may be obtained at camp for $1.50. NOTE — Blanket, moccasins, shirts, socks, etc., also post-cards and stationery, may be purchased at the camp at reasonable rates, if desired. 20 OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT The following will be found desirable additions to the outfit, though not essen- tial: Camera or kodak, musical instru- ments, fishing tackle, poncho, a cheap watch, tennis racquet, baseball and glove, and one or two good books. Boys who are fond of fishing are advised to bring two or three medium-sized archer spin- ners, a heavy trolling reel, a fairly heavy bass rod, and a strong line two or three Took His own Picture hundred feet in length. None of these need be of expensive kinds. A Victrola is part of the camp equipment. Boys who desire may bring disc records with them to be used during the season. The camp has a good selection of records. T atttvjt^tjy Plain washing will be attended to in camp at a moderate charge. All personal property should be plainly marked with the owner's full name. EXPENSES The charge for the season of eight weeks is $125. Of this amount $75 is due at the open- ing of camp, and the balance August 1st. Checks should be made payable to W. L. Wise. 21 The amount mentioned above includes board, use of canoes, privilege of participating in canoe trips, etc. When canoe trip parties make use of trains, which is not necessary for any of the ordinary trips, the members of the party will be expected to pay their fare and the charge for checking canoes. The camp charge does not include transportation to and from camp, fishing license, for which the Ontario Government charges a fee of five dollars, nor personal equipment. EXTRAS It is the policy of the camp to have that part of expenses known as "extras" kept as small as possible. We think this is more satisfactory for boy, for parent and for ourselves. Most boys can bring from home the greater part of the articles required for camp use. There is little necessity or opportunity to spend money in the Park, supply stores are few and far between. A very modest weekly allowance should be ample. The camp will co-operate with parents to reduce extra expense to a minimum. ROUTE— GOING One of the camp advisers will meet boys going to Camp Minne-Wawa at Grand Central Terminal, New York City, and accompany them from that place. Full directions as to route, destination, fare and time of departure of train will be sent early in June to each boy enrolled. The round trip from New York City, exclusive of Pullman accommodations, is about $27.50 and the train leaves about 7 P. M., but definite information cannot be given 22 until the railroads issue their Summer schedules about May 1st. The round trip from Buffalo, via Toronto and Scotia Junction, is about $12.50, exclusive of berth. HOME COMING Camp breaks up about August 30th. Boys reach New York City about 7.30 the following morning. Those going via Toronto and Buffalo may reach the latter point about 8 o'clock P. M., by taking a morning train, or about noon the following day by taking the evening train, has attached a through Pullman to Buffalo. A Ten Foot Dive The latter ADDITIONAL No effort is spared to make the life at Camp Minne-Wawa pleasant as well as beneficial. Great care is taken in the selection of boys to secure only those whose conduct at all times is such as becomes gentlemen. We work on the principle, "Lots of liberty, but no license." Boys whose influence is found to be detrimental to the moral tone of the camp will not be retained. The use of tobacco is disapproved ; firearms are prohibited. The number of boys 23 taken is comparatively small, not over twenty-five; hence, boys and advisers get in close touch with each other. Tutoring may be arranged for if parents desire, but is not advised. The purpose of the camp is that of recreation and outdoor life. The manager will be glad to give by private correspondence any information not covered in this booklet. Letters sent at any time to Bordentown Military Institute, Bordentown, N. J., will be either delivered or forwarded. During the camp season, any member of the camp may be addressed at Minne-Wawa Landing, Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada. ADULT DEPARTMENT Parents sometimes desire to visit their boys during the Summer. At times, too, parties of young men, professional and otherwise, make Minne-Wawa their headquarters during a series of fishing or canoeing trips to various lakes of the Park. Rates for such parties or individuals will be furnished on application. REFERENCES Those marked with a * have had a son or ward at Minne-Wawa; those marked with a § have visited the camp: * Mr. A. C. Albrecht, Secy. North Bros. Mfg. Co., Philadelphia, Pa. 24 § Mr. George W. Bartlett, Supt. Algonquin Provincial Park, Algonquin Park P. O., Ontario, Canada. * Mr. H. H. Brakeley, Bordentown, N. J. Mr. C. C. Broomell, Room 601, Reaper Block, Chicago, 111. § Mr. George W. Collier, Bordentown, N. J. § Dr. William Collier, 723 So. Broad St., Trenton, N. J. * Mr. Daniel H. Dunham, Broad & Market Sts., Newark, N. J. *§Mr. H. A. Edgerly, The Pureoxia Co., Boston, Mass. * Mr. F. K. Harvey, 89 Fairview Ave., Jersey City, N. J. * Dr. S. H. Havice, M. D., 130 W. Wayne St., Fort Wayne, Ind. § Mr. H. B. Hutchinson, 847 No. Park St., Columbus, Ohio. *§Mr. H. E. Jones, 118 Woodbridge Ave., Buffalo, N. Y. * Mr. J.J. Leonard, Atlantic Highlands, N. J. § Mr. H. C. Lewis, 222 Carolina St., Buffalo, N. Y. * Mr. Chas. Lovenberg, 372 Lloyd Ave., Providence, R. I. * Mr. J. H. Pardee, 43 Exchange Place, New York City, N. Y. *§Mr. M. J. Purcell, 510 Bearinger Bldg., Saginaw, Mich. * Mr. Chas. A. Sadler, 1526 Columbia Ave., Philadelphia, Pa. § Dr. F. C. Sebold, D. S., Genesee St., Auburn, N. Y. Mr. Chas. A. Tracy, 464 Potomac Ave., Buffalo, N. Y. § Dr. M. D. Wagner, D. S., 217 Hamilton Ave., Trenton, N. J. * Emma Gary (Mrs. Leslie O.) Wallace, 25 Grover St., Auburn, N. Y. § Dr. Wilbur Watts, M. D., 969 So. Broad St., Trenton, N. J. * Mr. F. L. Wheeler, F. L. Horton Mfg. Co., 36 Whittier St., Boston, Mass. * Mrs. Butler Williams, 182 Claremont Ave., New York City, N. Y. 25 F. L. HORTON MANUFACTURING CO. 36 Whittier St. BOSTON, MASS. Mr. W. L. Wise, February 10, 1915. Box 623, Bordentown, N. J. My Dear Mr. Wise : — As the summer season begins to seem not so very far away, I take the opportunity of writing to you to tell you that my son not only much enjoyed the summer he passed with you at your camp at Algonquin National Park, but that he was much bene- fited as well. In my opinion the summer passed with you was one of the most beneficial he has had. He not only secured a large fund of knowledge, but came close to nature in a way which he most thoroughly enjoyed. The canoe trips he looks back on with much pleasure. I do not know of a camp, among the many I have heard of, that I should be as pleased to have the boy attend, as to be at your camp in the Park. At present he expresses a desire to go to France this coming summer as a number of his classmates at Harvard are planning to join the Ambulance Corps in the French Army. I hardly think, however, that such plans will be carried out. You may be interested to know that incidentally his summer with you was of present value, as he finds many subjects of interest on which he is able to write for his English A work at college. Both the boy and myself hope he may soon renew his wonderful summer at your camp. With best wishes for the coming season, I beg to remain Yours very truly, flw|b F. L. WHEELER. 26 " I do not think you could find as fine a spot in America as the one mentioned; it is to my mind the very choicest spot I know of." —G. W. Bartlett, Esq., Supt. of Algonquin Park, writing of the site selected for the camp. ' ' / am very anxious indeed for my son to be with you again this season as I think it is the most beneficial Summer he can possibly spend." " The last Summer in camp proved truly beneficial to my son in many ways. I can see a distinct gain in both health and manliness." "I wish to thank you for the excellent care you have shown Roy; it makes me feel that he has been left in good hands." ' ' My son reports a very splendid vacation and expressed the highest regards for the camp management. I have no doubt he will be very glad to be with you another Summer. He seems in excellent health and I am very grateful for that as well as the pleasure that he has had." "I thank you for the good time and profitable experience which Jeff had this Summer." "My boy got home from camp in fine shape and said he had an even better time this, than last year." "Our boy is looking forward to going to camp again this year. I often think of the fine lot of boys you had, they were especially nice to me." "I want to thank you for what you have done for the boy for he enjoyed his outing with you and it did him good. He thinks a lot of you all." "I certainly had a fine time this Slimmer. Camping is surely great sport and Minne-Wawa is surely the place to get the 'right sort 1 of camping." 27 Location of Camp and Routes Thereto 28 LIBRARY OF CONGRESS II 002 908 109 8 * PRINTERS CMFHI.-.I.LBHi'