Camp Nelson Dodd Comments . . .
Donn E. McGinnis, Pinehurst, NC - I lived in Massillon, OH and attended Camp Nelson Dodd for 4 yrs...1942-1945. This experience was one the best highlights of my boyhood and I clearly remember it today. I can't recall the total amt. we paid but I do remember collecting Ohio sales tax receipts which were accepted as partial payment of my camp fee. In addition to the fee, I had to take a pound of sugar as sugar was rationed during the war. Fond memories include early morning swims in the pool before breakfast, the "kaibo" (outhouse), making lanyards & belts, canoeing on the Mohican River & hiking up to Buzzards Rocks... plus shooting the 22 rifle on the range. (How could I have known then that I would later join the FBI as Special Agent and become Expert Firearms Instructor at The FBI Academy in Quantico). My favorite memory was of the final night at camp when we walked the pontoon bridge across the river to a giant bonfire, and afterwards, each cabin set a handcrafted boat with lit candle afloat in the river while re-crossing the bridge. I still get goosebumps as I picture the flickering lights and remember the camaraderie. To say I loved my camp experiences would be an understatement of huge proportions. I truly feel it helped shape me to become a man. Thanks for the memories!
Eric L. Doner, San Jose, CA - I am originally from Mansfield, OH, and was a camper at Camp Nelson Dodd every summer from the time I was 10 (1953) until I was 16 (1959). I think of the camp often; in fact just today, as I was enjoying the pool where I live - since I learned to become a strong swimmer at CND. I was sorry to learn that it closed when I was still a resident of Ohio. I have great memories of canoeing on the Mohican River, long hikes, overnight camping (with great songs and ghost stories), archery, rifle range, camp staff skits and swimming. I had some great counselors who were good leaders and great role models. My last two years I was in the O.B.U. (Older Boys Unit) which was called the "Old Baggy Underwear" by the younger campers. In 1958 we traveled to Michigan and in 1959 to Canada for extended canoe trips. I attribute my experiences at Camp Nelson Dodd to shaping my character and subsequent career success and my interest in volunteering with several civic and professional associations over the past several years.
Philip Baxter, Castle Rock, CO - I was a summer camper for 3 or 4 summers. I went on the Lake Timagami Canoe Trip my last year. I thought that place would be there forever. It was fantastic. I am really disappointed to hear that the Y could not continue it. Big mistake.
Deborah L. (Schmidt) Eschenbacher, Columbus, OH - During the summer of 1965, I worked at Camp Nelson Dodd. I was a counselor for the several weeks dedicated to Girls' Camp at the beginning of the camping season, and then worked in the "Dish Room" for the rest of the summer. Many years before I was there, Senator and Astronaut, John Glenn, worked in the "Dish Room" and when I met him in 1998, we talked about our experiences at Camp Nelson Dodd!
Gary Nicholson, Santa Fe, NM - I was a counselor for part of one season. I believe that it was 1965.
Patti S. Shanaberg, Newark, OH - Camper around 1964, '65, '67? I attended at least 3 summers, the last was with my own horse - my friend Teri Wollins (now Lowinger) and I were the only campers who brought our own horses. Jumped for the first time - never wanted to stop after that! Wonderful memories!!!
Randall L. Evans, Maineville, OH - In 1961 I attended a HI-Y officers training session. It was a memorable and the best camp experience I ever had. Our adult leader was Jerry Tulley from West Virginia. Good canoeing in nearby Mohican river between Brinkhaven and Greer. Must have been great I still remember it all, even the two bee stings at once, in my ear and on my arm at a washup basin. Camp nurse was not happy having to get up early to give me attention.
Mark A. Diller, Defiance, OH - I had Mom over for supper tonight and she didn't want to go home right away. So I had some work to do on my laptop and she was curious on what I was doing and I showed her how you could get on the internet and look up any thing. I decided to see what there was out there for Camp Nelson Dodd and to my surprise we found so many names that brought back some of our fondest memories. Mom started reading the alumni blog and she smiled like I haven't seen for a while. Back in the early 60s Dad and Mom, Bob and Janice Diller, helped at the camp during the summer as camp managers. After the both of us kept reading we kept coming across names that made us remember "Great Times". Dad passed away in 1984 in a traffic accident. Mom lives right next door to me. I am one of Bob and Jan's boys. I have an older brother named Charles and a younger sister named Robin. I remember meeting John Glenn and seeing his name carved in one of the cabinets in the mess hall. I started thinking about items to list on the blog: My favorite horse's name was Sailor and my next favorite thing was the Friday night camp fire. It's late here and I need to quit for the night but as I was reading there are requests for pictures and other items from camp. I am going to mom's to pull out as many pictures as I can. I still have an ash tray that I hammered out of a can lid. Does that bring back memories?
Frank W. MacLean, Frederick, MD - CIT and Counselor at Nelson Dodd, in 1965, 1966. Worked with the horses, swimming pool and went on the canoe trips to Ontario, I believe it was Timmagami area (probably not spelled correctly). Went by my nickname then: Skip.
Catherine J. Milam, Columbus, OH - Our family spent weekends at Camp Nelson Dodd with our church Sunday School class in the 1950s It was a YWCA camp. We loved it. They had cannoeing, hiking, ball courts, fishing, horseback riding, cabins to sleep in and a furnished rec hall.
Timothy W. Merrill, Jr, Sewickley, PA - I was a counselor in 1961 and 1962, having the younger kids under my care, I believe. I went to Michigan for the Ausable canoe trip in '62, and certainly went down the Mohican a number of times. I also remember tearing down the original cabins, the introduction of the Ranch on the far hill, running up that hill (to Buzzard's Rock?)to get in shape for football, and certainly, the closing ceremonies. We had a good Executive Director (Smith?) and assistant (whose face I can conjure up but not his name), some great fellow counselors I'd love to know what happened to (Ben Orme, Rich White, Harold Miller, and the memories fuzz. . .)
John L. Cummings, San Carlos, CA - Spent 2 glorious summers, 2 weeks each at Nelson Dodd in the 1950s. Remember everything just like it was just yesterday. Remember a camp counselor named "Renfro", playing capture the flag, roaring huge fires on the athletic field, crossing the river on the pontoon bridge, making 16 strand landyards, "bug juice" at meal time and all the singing during and after eating, overnight canoe trips, making the little boats with a candle and launching them the night before leaving, horse back riding, playing basketball, volleyball, and the main camp lodge with its big wrap-around porch; memories from my youth that I will never forget and cherish always.
Roger C. Danner, Bradenton, OH - I went to camp each Summer from 1943 thru 1945. I was in camp when WWII ended, 12 yrs old, sure wanted to get back to Wooster, Ohio because even at that young age I knew there was a big celebration going on, but alas, I missed it.
Robert C. Bader, Germantown, TN - My father, Adrian C. Bader, was the Executor Director of the Mt. Vernon, Ohio YMCA from 1942 until 1958. Maybe some of you remember him. He passed away in 1999 at 92. Our Y was the closest to Camp Nelson Dodd. I can remember knowing about the Camp and wanting badly to attend before I was the minimum age of nine at that time. I was a camper for six years, one week when I was nine, and two weeks for the next five years. I then worked at Camp for three years 1954 - 1956 at the pool. I was Aquatic Director the last year. I remember the 3 day, 90 mile canoe trips down river and sleeping in the city park in Coshocton. The Camp truck, a light green Dodge, picked us up downriver and carried the campers and the canoes back to Brinkhaven. The counselors had Wednesday evening off, so the green truck, provided transportation to Mt. Vernon to go to the Keynote Dance at the Y. My Dad was always there keeping an eye on things, which I did not mind. My Mt. Vernon High Reunion is held every five years. I visited what used to be our Camp in 2001 by invitation of the new owner. It was a Church Camp at that time. I found out that the Area Office had sold it to the Church. Everything I knew about Camp was gone. The cabins, administration building, the swimming pool, the KYBO at the end of the pool, the kitchen and mess hall. It was very sad. I was sorry that I had not kept up with what was going on with the Camp after I heard that it had been closed. Even an Airlines Passenger Sales Manager could have come up with the selling price. How cool would that have been. I have the fondest of memories about Camp Nelson Dodd. What a wonderful place to spend time during your younger years. Dave Jones was the Director at the time I was there. He was a Y Secretary in Northern Ohio. Used to smoke a pipe. Densie and Earnie ran the kitchen. They were from Ohio Wesleyan in Delaware. I think they cooked in a fraternity house. If the counselors were especially nice to them, they would cook pizza after hours for the staff. What a lovely couple. I worked with Pete Dull, Celina, OH for two years. He was the best man in our wedding in 1964. Pete went to Ohio Wesleyan, and Ohio State and became an aeronautical engineer. Pete and I see each other every year at the Indy 500. He has had the same seats for over 30 years. Bill and Babs Stafford were also on the staff when I worked there. Tom Ricketts, one of my friends in Memphis who owns two hotels, was a camper at Nelson Dodd as well. What a small world it really is. When I went back to Camp in 2001, I emptied a new bottle of water in front of the spring that is still running on the right as you enter, and filled it with cold spring water for Tom. My wife Emily took pictures so Tom would be sure it was real. David Allan Arnold from Lima, OH was also a counselor when I was there. At camp, we knew him as Al. When I got to Miami as a freshman in McBride Hall, who was the upper class counselor in the room next door, Dave Arnold, as he was known in college. He sponsored me into the Alpha Chapter of Phi Kappa Tau and was my big brother. I have lost track of Dave and can't find him on the internet. What else can I say. Camp Nelson Dodd obviously had a very lasting impression on my life. I wish it was still open so the youth of today could experience all the positive lessons we all learned.
Grady W. Smith, Marietta, OH - Attended '64 and '65, as a camper. Cabin was in Pioneer(?), up the ravine to the left when standing by pool looking at the mess hall. Counselor was Sam that took care of the horses. Lost glasses in Mohican River while canoeing, and walked around for a week practically blind. Always wondered what happened to the old place, so did some investigating last weekend while at Apple Valley Resort, which is now in the vicinity. Called many businesses, and finally a nice lady at a camping/outfitting store said that she had heard of Nelson Dodd, and knew of an older gentleman that would most likely know of its location. She took my cell number and promised to call back if she could contact her friend, which she did do in less than a half hour. Followed her instructions to drive through Brinkhaven, to the "T" intersection,and turn left. The drive to the old camp location took less than twenty minutes, but what was found was sort of sad. ALL the old camp buildings that we older campers knew have been torn down, everything. Nothing old remains, but a bit of concrete from the swimming pool. New buildings dot the terrace (which is much steeper than I had remembered) where the old classic dining hall used to set. The demise of the Nelson Dodd was really sad. According to a fellow that seemed like the resident caretaker, in 1976 two campers drowned after falling/jumping from the pontoon bridge during a period of high water after a storm. The camp was dormant (read no maintenance) for approximately 18 years, until a church group purchased what was left of the property, about 750 acres for a retreat center. By this time, 1994, the old buildings were beyond salvage. The above has not been researched for facts, but sounds quite posssible, give or take a few years.
Becky J. (Cummings) Conger, Jackson, OH - I attended camp there for 3 summers in the mid 60s. Best memories of my childhood! I would love to be able to go back and visit.
Donald P. Berger, Philadelphia, PA - I was a camper at Nelson Dodd between 1945 and 1946. In addition to that, I was counselor at the camp in 1947 and 1948. I have one letter from Alvin R. Deiss telling me about the renumeration, $12.50 a week. He was the camp director. I also have a senior course in life saving, dated Aug. 4, 1947.
Stuart Raike, Ashland, OH - I was born and raised in Ashland, Ohio, and spent many a summer at Camp Nelson Dodd in the 1960s. Lots of fond memories there like the swing bridge over the river. Too bad the young boys of today will never be able to experience the great outdoors in the manner in which we did. It not only taught you about nature, but it built character.
Kenneth H. Radcliffe, Dayton, OH - Summer of l950 I served on staff as a counselor and archery instructor.
Michael R. Davis, Boston, MA - I was a camper there sometime during the 1950s. Sorry, but I can't remember what year. I might have something buried in my records somewhere that would give more information, but I can't put my hands on it right now.
Megan S. Lake (Magruder), Heath, OH - Went to camp there in 1972.
Roger D. Salls, Stratford, CT -
Camper 1957,58,59; Staff 1962,63,64.
Wow, what a trip down memory lane. I was sitting here going through everyone's comments and memories and was just transported back to ND. I remember my first year, it had to be 1957 and I stayed for two weeks, my counselor was Jerry Tulley from W Virginia. Those two weeks were wonderful! I came back in '58 and in '59 went on the Michigan canoe trip down the Muskegon River, that was the year Michigan had a drought and the river was at an all time low so we spent more time hauling the canoes over stuff and around stuff than paddling. I loved the trip and was going back the next year when I suffered a very badly broken arm on July 4 so no canoe trip. 1961 I was back and we canoed the AuSable River and it was wonderful. I see names that I remember like Harry Miller, Olle the Norwegan counselor and a couple of other names. In 1962 I was a CIT and '63 I worked in the kitchen and bunked in the main lodge with a fellow by the name of John Quantance(sp), that as someone mentioned was when John Glenn visited and I shook his hand and told him that I had the same kitchen job he had when he worked at ND. I sure hope someone saved the cabinet door he signed stating that he had slipped and dropped a tray of four one gallon jars of mustard. I also remember Joel Thinnes, Harry Miller's brother Noel?, Bob Barber. The summer of 1964 I was a counselor, in retrospect not a very good one, but the opportunity to be back at ND was everything. My parent's had moved to Connecticut in 1963 so when I came back in 1964 it was for the last time but ND will be in my heart forever.
Paul A. Maidel, Jr., Tualatin, OR - Sold YMCA saltwater taffy in my hometown of Newark,Ohio, and went to camp in 1959? Moved to California with family in 1960.
John Brewer, Henderson, NV - I went to Camp Nelson Dodd in the early 50s from the Steubenville YMCA.
Chuck Russakov, Longwood, FL - I was a camper there for 3 summers in the mid-fifties. It was a really great place. I remember a cold night camped at Buzzard Rock,my first canoe trip to Brinkhaven and the overnight trip, when my bowman stopped paddling and we turned over going through the Mohawk Dam tunnel, that resulted in a wet cold night in a park in Coshocton. I well remember most of camp life, including my counselor one year, Dale Millie, who was the camp bugler and ran the rifle range. My last sessions were in the OBU (older boys' unit) in the tent cabins down the road. My first year, I had to teach myself to swim so I could pass the test for my first canoe trip. I spend lots of time hiking and paddling in Florida today as a result of what I learned at Nelson-Dodd.
Laurence M. Nommay, Paso Robles, CA - I worked maintenance there summer of 1941. 1942 and 1943. I was the guy who assembled the pontoon bridge, rolled the tennis court, cleaned the pool, caught the snakes, and placed the cabin screens. Worked the first year with Paul Kiger (now deceased). Remember Spriggs, the cook?
Terry L. Athey II, Hebron, OH - It was magical for a 12-13 boy to be away from home and in the woods for a week lol .I have some fond memories and wish I could remember it all. I also remember the story of the green giggy, the ant hills, and the snakes; I must have caught 4-5 of them that week but the one I most remember was a little ring neck snake 6 inches maybe in length. We all were in the main hall that night and I can`t remember why because I had that snake with me in my hand and pocket. Well it got lose a girl camper seen me grab it up and she let out an ear piercing scream followed by the word snake and a pointed finger at numero uno and the panic was on - people, girls mostly, were a scattering, boys were wanting to see and my teacher was not impressed lol - what a hoot. Yes the little candle lit boats were cool but I have to admit when we sang and loaded on the buses for home I had tears. Met some good people. My counselor Rick Coleman I believe was his name - we called him RC and he was as cool as they come. Met some other friends there and are still buddies today. Rock on Camp Nelson Dodd alumni. I would like to ride my harley there this summer just to look at the area again if I'm allowed on the property,,, we will see.
Ted Fritsch, North Chatham, MA - I served as Program Director and cabin counselor, in the summer of '49, I believe it was. I had served in a similar role the summer before when the director, Bob Lance, was at O.C.Kimball Y camp in Michigan. I saw Lance a few years later when he lived/worked in Webster Groves, MO, near my own home. I do have a couple of photos from that summer. I was a student at Antioch College, and then at Yale Divinity School.
Thomas R. Cowles, Inverness, FL - I attended Camp Nelson Dodd for two years. I think it was about 1942 and 1943. I was a Y member from Lima, Ohio. I remember living in a cabin on the second row. I also remember trying to dive on the diving board that was just a long wooden plank with some burlap nailed on the end. I also learned how to braid a lanyard. It was the first time I spent away from home. We had to take our ration books with us. At night before I went to sleep I could hear Whip Or Will birds in the distance. I also remember singing in the mess hall after supper. "Oh, We're the Boys from Nelson Dodd you Hear so much about."
Don E. Bruns, Lima, OH - I was a camper in the very early 60's, a counselor in the mid 60's. Worked on the ranch and helped run the horse camp at the top of the hill.
Jerry L. Garver - I was on staff in 1958 summer and was a counselor. I have many fond memories of the staff and campers...what a great place for kids in 1958.... Remember Densie and Ernie the cooks...
Lance Hassan, Chicago, IL - I was a camper during the summers of 62, 63, and 64 out of Mansfield. In 64 I did the Michigan canoe trip on the AuSable, where my parents now live. Every time I canoe or kayak the river (about 3-4 times a year) I remember that trip. That and the coon dogs limping through camp the morning after treeing a racoon. My short postcard to my parents..."having fun, taking riflery and horsery, love Lance".
Dennis A. Homerick, Mansfield, OH - Can't even begin to tell how much enjoyment going to Camp Nelson Dodd was. Worked much of the Spring selling soap to earn money to attend a week at Camp. The canoe trips were terrific. Remember swimming 100 laps of pool just to qualify for canoe trip to Canada.
John H. Brewer, Henderson, NV - I attended Camp Nelson Dodd in the 50s when I was a member of the Steubenville YMCA.
Dale R. Whyde, Cambridge, OH - I was at the camp around the early 70's late 60's. I went there as a Junior leader as I was at the Newark YMCA. We cleaned up cabins, the pool, and the chow hall. "Stew" Jacobs did the cooking and there was a door that I believed survived that had John Glenn's signature on it. We were told at the time that he had also been a Jr. Leader there also.
Robert W. Horr, Plain City, OH - I was a camper at Nelson Dodd in the 1950s. I remember Buzzard's Rock and canoe trips down to Brinkhaven and making floating candles which were released from the bridge at the camp.
Tom Yannitell, Marion, OH - I was a camper in the early 1950s.
Renee M, Jewett, Hebron, OH - I went there for 6th grade camp from Ben Franklin in Newark, Ohio; the year was 1976! It was my first time away from home. I have so many memories: Challenge Hill, the little boat things with candle that we floated on the last night, the night we took a hike and learned about the different owls and of The Green Giggy (sp?) - I still remember most of the story. I also remember some of the songs and I remember one of our counselors for our cabin was Kim Flowers. I still have my journal that we made there. I remember wanting to be just like her when I grew up! I'd say Camp Nelson Dodd is definetly one of my favorite "adventures" I had growing up.
John R. Benbow, Madison, WI - I was a Nelson Dodd camper in 1956, 1957, and 1961; in 1962 I attended a HI-Y conference there for a week and was a CIT for four weeks. I have many positive memories of the people and experiences from all those summers, including the canoe trips, the singing in the mess hall after meals, and the hikes up to Buzzard's Rock and in the hills above the river valley. But my CIT summer was particularly memorable. Two specific occasions stand out - I wonder if anyone else from those days recall them. One was the morning John Glenn and his family stopped by unannounced (I missed seeing him because I slept in that morning.) The other was at the night-time closing ceremony over on the athletic fields: I had the honor of running the torch into the middle of the large circle where the other torches were lit - unfortunately in my haste I stumbled and fell (a couple of the counselors said it was like the flame had just disappeared) but was able to bounce right back up and reach the middle intact - I felt bad for breaking the solemnity of the ceremony - but I was somewhat relieved when I noticed that most of the staff were laughing, and I didn't care whether it was with me or at me.
Jack Koschnick, Galion, OH - I was a camper at Camp Nelson Dodd in 1956, 1957, and 1958. I remember the fun at the rifle range and canoeing. I drove down to the camp a few years ago and that's when I realized it had been closed.
Eddie Linser, Gastonia, NC - I attended camp in 1944,1945 & 1946. If I remember that during WWII for 2 weeks it was $25 and because of rationing 5 lbs of sugar and 1 lb of butter. I remember the hikes to "Buzzard's Rock", Fossil Cliff and the sand mine, also making small boats with lit candles hoping they would float all the way to the dam in Brinkhaven. My time at Camp Nelson is one of my fondest memories of my youth.
Gary Kaltenbach, Fremont, OH - I have a photo of my dad, Earl Kaltenbach, at 2nd Grade School Period, Ohio State YMCA Camp Nelson Dodd, dated July 30th-August 9, 1926. It is a framed group shot of 71 campers and staff. It is labelled Poles of Polsk (spell?), Photographers.
Jon T. Shonebarger, Jr., Canon City, CO - It was in the spring of 1970 as a 6th grader at Johnny Clem Elementary School.
Tom R. Hayes,Sioux Falls, SD - I think it was the Spring of 75 6th grade camp from Jonny Clemm in Newark has a great time. There was story about swamp a monster or somthing; remember being terrifed!!!
Mindy Bigelow (Robinson),Shelby, OH - I spent three summers at Nelson Dodd in the early 60's. I loved horseback ridding. I also saw my first copperhead snake while hiking. I'm not sure where the camp was located. The first year I was in a large cabin. The next two years was in a tent.I always thought I'd go back as a counsler when I was older but never did.
Joseph R. McNamara, Williamsburg, VA - Attended Camp Nelson Dodd in l950 along with a boyhood friend Mike Martin........we were from Lima,Ohio and the experience was outstanding....shooting 22 calibre rifles,canoeing,living in cabins with counselors who did there best to scare us at night,fun night with a special made up haunted house,and of course the long drive from Lima to Camp Nelson Dodd.......all a very special time in my life............and Ben Rose was a boyhood neighbor friend of mine in Lima and has definitely gone on to better things in life.........
Fritz Huls, Scottsdale, AZ - Attended in 51,52,53,54 and as a Hi-Y Camper 57,58. Usually first week in June. Mr. Dice (Dise?) was the camp manager. Ken Strunk was a cabin councilor and Rifle Range instructor. I made the canoe trip to Brinkhaven, also a longer trip starting above Nelson Dodd. I have very fond memories of Nelson Dodd including Buzzard's Rock, the pontoon bridge, rifle range, nature cabin, craft building, and chow hall. I still think of the cannon echoing off Buzzard's Rock when I hear "To the Colors". A wonderful experience. I also remember the Chapel Services in the AM and the camp store. The Chapel Services "Took" as I'm now a prison chaplain.
Steve Geisinger, Hartville, OH - I attended Nelson Dodd for two summers, I believe in '65 and '66. I remember I stayed in Lincoln Cabin. I believe the cabins were named after famous Americans. Leaving the cabin, turning the corner to the left was the road going past the rifle range (where I first learned how to shoot). If you turned right from the cabin and went down into the woods then you would be at the fire ring. Past the rifle range was the health cabin to the right and then the fascinating floating bridge to the right. I will never forget the floating bridge - the water was about a foot deep, flowed fast and the bridge was long and bouncy. The reason why it was bouncy was that it was floating on 55-gal drums. Across on the other side was a parade and activities field. Past that, up on the high steep hills were cow pastures with alot of "you know what". We hiked up those hills and camped under the stars wrapped up in blankets (we didn't have sleeping bags). I remember doing a "10-mile hike down from the hills one time which turned into a road race. I came in 2nd. Past the health cabin to the left, up on the hill was the dining hall which had "bug juice". I remember going from the Lincoln cabin to the dining hall walking the "back way" going through the pine woods. I remember clearly the pool, the big lodge with the snack shop in the lower center level and the great fudgecicles. I was very disappointed that N-D was closed because I enjoyed it there very much. Down the road from the big lodge to the right was "the island" and down from that was the canoing place. Just past the canoing place on the left, up on the hill, was the nature cabin and crafts. To the right past the canoing was the horse stables. One day a boy was kicked in the forehead because he forgot to go around the horse.
Keith Dessecer, Dover, OH - My first trip away from home and I remember that after dark we played an indian tribe game with different tribes trying to capture the tribe . We had, I believe, gauze wrapped around our arm. The tribe who got the most won. I belive there were four tribes.
Jerry Brown, Columbus, OH - I was at Nelson Dodd the summer of 1952 (12 yrs old). This was my first experience away from home and at first I didn't think I could do it. What I remember most was the canoeing. I loved going on the river and the counselor who trained us was super. He taught me I could do it on-my-own.
Richard A. Martindale, Granville, OH - Gosh, I am the baby here. I attended "6th Grade Camp" at Nelson Dodd in 1972 through William E. Miller Elementary School in the Newark (Ohio) City School system. I earned money delivering papers (The Newark Advocate) and cutting grass to pay my way. I only have a few memories of camp... the giant ant hills and our counselor getting lost (I helped him find the way back to camp). I think we had students from other schools in the system and we got out of school for a week in the spring to attend. I do remember having a good time on my first real stay away from home.
Thomas R. Cowles, Inverness, FL - Just reading some of the above articles brought back a lot of memories. I attended camp at Nelson Dodd for two summers. It was 1941 and 42, About a dozen boys and I were from the Y in Lima. We each had to bring a jar of sugar and our ration books with us. I remember that the surface of the pool was usually covered with Japanese beetles. I learned to do a "gainer" off of the old diving board. It was just a narrow wooden plank with a covering of burlap nailed to the end. I don't remember the Director's name, but I do remember a magic trick he did with a white handkerchief. He made it float in the air. I also remember some of the songs we sang after each meal. One of the best was "Oh we're the boys from Nelson Dodd you hear so much about." It was sad to hear that the Camp is no more. For a 12 year old kid from Lima, it was a great experience.
Robert B. Fox, Mansfield, OH - I attended Camp Nelson Dodd in the late 30/s, early 40's. Not sure how many years, but probably three or four. I was, and still am, a member of the Mansfield, Ohio Y. Remember taking mosquito netting to tack around my bunk, they were voracious! Remember meeting my first Copperhead, I ran one way, the snake took off, fortunately, the other way. If I am not mistaken, John Glenn was one of the camp counselors? Have many happy memories of hikes, swimming, and remember the sign over the toilet house, which was called the "KYBO", for keep your bowels open. Particularly remember a sign in the main lodge "OTHERS", the well presented subject of a Sunday morning talk on the importance of considering others as a part of a good and respectful life. So many years ago, but so many happy thoughts and memories. Thanks for the opportunity of sharing.
Richard B. Fowler, Naperville, IL - I was a second generation camper at Nelson Dodd. My father (John Fowler) and uncle (Edward Holland Fowler) of Barnesville went to camp there, likely in the late 20s or early 30s. I believe my Uncle was a lifeguard at the Camp (he may have old photos). He now lives in Somerset, OH and is nearing 90 years old. I read the note from former camper, Mike Ruess, with great interest. I was in the same Indian Guide tribe as he was. Three of us from Olmsted Falls had gone the year before (my brother, Keith Fowler, and friend Dave Jerome). The next year a bunch of us from the Indian Guide tribe (the Mohicans) went: my brother and me, Dave Jerome, Mike Ruess, Greg Chandler, Martin Hoss, Rex Dixon and maybe one or two others (Todd McDonald, the Lehner brothers? The old Pineway Drive gang!). Great memories of a wonderful place. I later went to North Woods Camp in 1967, owned by the Cleveland YMCA, but another great place that's long gone. Memories....
Warren S. MacPherson, Columbus, OH - My parents sent me to Camp Nelson Dodd in the Summer of '64, when I was 13. I remember feeling a lot like Marty to everyone else's Spin but it was a beautiful place to be. My first experience with horseback riding and the pool was great. I think the thing I remember the most was learning to do basket-weaving in the crafts building. I believe we stayed in small, separate cabins of about 4 guys each. I wish I could remember more. I do have a couple of nice postcards I got off of Ebay. Unfortunately, it was my one and only time there.
Becky J. Conger (Cummings), Jackson, OH - After my brother attended the camp, it was finally opened to girls! I spent 3 summers there in the 60's and stayed in Simon Kenton cabin. I remember the overnite canoe trips, the swinging bridge, and playing Capture the Flag. I would love to go back and visit!
Herbert N. Lanker, Lima, OH - As a member of the Lima, OH YMCA I attended the camp with other local kids around 1948-49. I vaguely remember how much fun it was swimming in the Mohican River, the good food in the dining hall, playing ball, making braided necklaces out of colored plastic strands, and the beautiful hills and scenery along the river. It was probably my first camping experience.
Leonard M. Matz, Newcastle, PA - I believe that my first year was in 1960. The rows of small cabins were still uphill from the pool and the Pioneer? cabins were not yet built. My parents didn't want me at home so I did multiple sessions every summer - 6 to 8 weeks each year. I think that my last year was 1966. I don't remember names or faces. I still remember canoe trips and hikes. I bet I could still find some of the paths.
James Kahrl, Sunbury, OH - I was the pool director in 1965 when Bob Miller was the camp director. The staff built a bridge and had a great summer. I met my future wife Terry Coffey. Michael Kahrl was one of the campers that swam at the pool that summer.
Thomas L. Johnson, Frankfort, NY - I first attended Camp Nelson Dodd in June of 1962. I was assigned to Pioneer Village with Harry Miller as my counselor for my one week stay. In 1963 I went on a two week Michigan Canoe Trip with counselor Jim Dilbone. I believe another counselor, Joel Thinnes, was also on this trip. In July of 1964, with Harry Miller as counselor, I went on my first two week Canadian Canoe Trip. I went with a friend of mine from Chillicothe, OH, Tim Holbrook. My last stay at Nelson Dodd was in 1965. I went on my second Canadian Canoe Trip with Harry Miller as my counselor. Another counselor, Jim Morisey, was also on this trip I think.
Jim Henry, Germantown, OH - My father, Zeller Henry, helped found a YMCA organization at Germantown High School, probably around 1926 or 1927. He and another high school student attended Camp Nelson Dodd and loved it so much that they came back and helped set up the club at the school. He later worked at the camp. He told me about his experiences when I was young, and I looked forward to attending. I finally did attend in the summer of 1963. I'm pretty sure my counselor was Harry Miller, whose name I see above [below]. There was also a Joel Tennis, as I recall. It seems he was a medical student (not sure) somewhere in Washington state (again, not too certain). Jim Morisey was a C.I.T. when I was there and later attended Otterbein College, where I also went. Wow, the memories, all good, are pouring back. What a great two weeks I had there. The perfect summer experience for a young man.
Marni (Pritchard) Rebmann, Clayton, MO - As a girl, Camp Nelson Dodd was not an option for me. Nonetheless, I grew up to stories of the adventures my father had there during the 1940's. It was a mystical place. I did get to visit on family days. My cousin "Bud" Banning was a counselor there. My best memories include the terrifying swinging bridge and the camp's pet black snake. This snake was at least 6 feet long to my recollection.
Jim K. Morisey, Rosenberg, TX - Camp Nelson Dodd counselor 1963-1965. Missionary strategy coordinator developing apartment and ethnic churches in southwest Houston, TX.
Peter Bryan, Houston, TX - Camper 1954 and 1955.
Harry Miller, Dundas, Ontario - I attended Nelson Dodd as a HI-Y trainee probably in 1957. I was on the staff for several years from 1958 through 1965/66. I was a Counselor, Village Director and Director of the Michigan and Canadian Trips, and I ran the Horsemanship program one year. I was also acting Camp Director on occasion when the boss was out of town. I worked exclusively with the older, adolescent campers.
Bob Segna, Bowling Green, OH - As a 10-yr old first-time camper in 1957 from Bellevue Ohio I had many memorable adventures at Nelson Dodd. I remember snake hunts with "Y" sticks we made, trips across the pontoon bridge, canoeing, KP, swimming and campfires. The best ghost story was the "Green Slime" which I have retold to countless spooked campers as a Scout Counselor years later. But, the most memorable event was the counselor hunt where we followed a trail of toilet paper in hopes of catching a counselor and a prize. Another camper & I followed a trail but did not hear the cannon announcing the hunt's end. By then darkness was falling and we had to find our way back to camp without a flashlight. Crashing through the dark woods we almost walked into the sand quarry on the hill above the camp. Scared us to death! I never did learn that other camper's name. The next year I turned 11 and joined Scouts so I attended other camps but never forgot that summer at ND and being lost in the woods.
Michael A. Kahrl, Bexley, OH - I went there in 1965 and '66. One night my buddy and I had cookie duty and after dinner we had to scrape all the plates into a bucket before taking them to the scullery. My buddy was putting the plates into the rack under the watchful eye of a dining room attendant and he came across a plate that still had a piece of meatloaf with ketchup stuck to it. And it was his. He licked it off and the girl screamed and fainted right there in front of us. We were in trouble, again.
Jerry Fugazzi, Columbus, OH - I attended Nelson Dodd in 1944. I belonged to the Van Wert,Ohio YMCA. A large contingent from Van Wert attended each summer. We were hiking above the camp one morning when the bell began to peal constantly and the counselor said that must be a fire and we all ran wildly for the camp. Upon arriving there we found that the war in the Pacific had ended, VJ day August 14th 1944. I too took the 5 mile canoe trip, and heard all the hair raising tales of Indians who still roamed the hills around the camp. Very fond memories. I was nine years old at the time.
Richard Fugazzi, Dacula, GA - I was at the camp I believe 1944 and 1945. I grew up in Van Wert OH and attended the camp thru the VW YMCA. I can recall getting on a bus with no air of course and couldn't wait to get off it was so hot. When we got off there was a pipe with fresh ice cold spring water coming out of the hill and the struggle was on for a drink. This was a wonderful experience in my life with the crafts, hiking and all. The thing that really has stuck in my mind all these years was being there when the Japanese surrendered and WWII was over. There was a big celebration with numerous firings of the cannon used when the flag was lowered each evening. I am sorry to find out that the camp no longer is in operation since I believe it could still be a great experience for all new generations as their first experience away from home.
Chris Pritchard, Fleming Island, FL - I attended one summer in the early 60s. I loved learning to shoot rifles and bow and arrow. I also loved the long nature hikes and finding arrowheads along the river bank. My father attended in 1940 and 1941 and my father's cousins (Charles (Bud) and Albert Banning) attended regularly thoughout the late 50s. Bud Banning held the camp record for breaking the most dishes. You may recall this record was carved into the old wooden dish cabinet that stood against the mess hall wall. Another infamous Nelson Dodd Dish Breaker was astronaut and later US Senator: John Glenn.
Randy Rose, Columbus, Ohio - I attended in 1958 and have the brochure from that year and a news clipping from the Athens Messenger June 13,1958. Boys attending from Athens that year according to Bob Taylor Y secretary and leaving for camp June 15 were Richard Blosser, John Crewson, Marvin Crippen, Kenneth DeVeau, Ross Hecht, Noel Humphreys, Gary Keller, John Lackey, James Hanger, John Patchen, Robert Randall, Bill Reamer, Philip Rose, Randy Rose, Larry Spaulding, Ted Stiff, Robert Tribe, David Stewart, James Wickerham, Larry Rutter, Skip West, James Lattimer, John Lattimer, John Lewis, Thomas Phillips, Johnny Philips, Theodore West, and Jerry Spears. Camp Staff from Athens that summer were Denny White, Terry White and Richard White. I sold saltwater taffy every year to raise my camp fee. I was the announcer for Wednesday stunt night that week at age nine. Monday we went up on the hill to a campfire. We played capture the flag and no one captured the others team's flag. Two boys had Cookie Call and prepared the mess hall table for the rest of the cabin. 1961 was a memorable year when I earned a certificate in horsemanship signed by Joel Thinnes counselor of Cabin B. In 1959 camp quotas were completely filled, according to camp director LaForest Smith, and 29 boys from Athens attended the first week.
David E. Lawson, Danville, Indiana
Sanford (Sandy) R. Bowen, (Florida) - I began spending my 2 weeks at camp when I was 8, 1952, and attending each year through 1959 or 1960. I was on the first 2 week canoe trip to Michigan and then the following year, the first 2 week canoe trip to Canada. I represented the Ashland YMCA. In the late 1960's I served as Physical Director and then Executive Director of the Ashland YMCA. I looked forward to camp each summer. I canoed past the camp in the early 1960's and was disappointed by the condition it was in. Several years ago I drove along the road on the other side of the river - the road near Greer - the activity fields were planted in crops.
Paul Kellam, (Florida) - I was a camper in the mid 1930's from the YMCA in Zanesville, Ohio. Just how old I was, I am not sure. I was born in August 1927 and, if I am not mistaken, I was just old enough to be allowed to go to camp. How old would I have been? Anyway, it was the depths of the Great Depression. Saturday morning gym and swim at the Zanesville Y cost five cents a week or a dollar a year. Two weeks at Camp Nelson Dodd cost an astronomical $14. My father paid half and I paid half from money I made mowing lawns and other odd jobs in the neighborhood. Only one other boy my age went to camp from the Zanesville Y that year, I believe.
It was a memorable experience and a life-changing experience. I was an only child and it was my first time over night away from home without my parents. Living with buddies and skinny dipping out of doors was a memorable part. The life-changing part came through a crafts class in photography. When I saw images appear out of nothing in the darkroom I was hooked. That led to a career as a writer and editor in newspaper and magazine journalism.
Charles A. Bass - I was a camper for a couple years around 1950. The second year I was there for the entire camping season. I especially remember the swimming instructor; I believe his name was Evan Hartman. He patiently helped me overcome my fear of water and taught me to be a competent swimmer. I was 9 or 10 at the time.
William E. Carter - CIT summer of 1959 and in the summer of 1960 was a counselor, swimming and horsemanship instructor, Au Sable leader.
Robert R. Chapman - I was a camp counselor in pioneer village in 1960 and 1961. I spoke with LaForest C. Smith about a year ago. He is in Eastham, MA. Through Classmates.com, I am able to track down a few people. I will let them know about this.
Sheldon (Shelly) E. Swank - Through the YMCA in Mansfield, Ohio, I was a two time camper at Nelson Dodd in the early 1940's. My memories include the one and only time in my life I held a live snake (in the little building as you entered the camp grounds), making a billfold in the craft shop, the swimming pool, crossing the pontoon bridge to the athletic fields, the softball games, the miniature frogs and the buzzards that used to circle the hills across the river. I tried to find the camp grounds through Mapquest on the internet, but apparently the camp site is no longer there.
Andy Wetherill - I was a camper in 1958 and 1959 and a CIT the summer of 1960.
Denny R. Wood, MSW - I was at camp the summer of 1962. My coach, Ron Dilbone got me a job there. Both Ron and his brother Jim Dilbone were counselors there. I worked the archery program and got a very good performance rating. That summer was one of the best of my life. I can still remember sailing canoes with another counselor named Joel and working out with a counselor who was a Yale football player. And so many other great memories of the camp.
Joe Ricketts (Centerville, OH) was a camper in the mid 1950s. ALWAYS looked forward to going there. In fact, each year my brother and I always stayed past our group from Huntington, WV's tenure. We would spend another week or two in the misc. (forgot the name) group. Many fond memories, and a great natural spring from which to drink. Our goal was to make it to the OBC (older boys cabin).
Ronald E. Rose (Stanford, FL) - my brother Randy and I attended camp in the late 1950s.
Robin Ullman (Turlock, CA) - I went to Nelson Dodd from the YMCA in Bellevue, OH. I think I was there in the year "58" and "59". A group of my school friends spent two weeks there both summers and had a great time. The one thing I remember was a canoe trip...I want to say it was 20 miles or maybe it seemed like 20 miles. I think new cabins were built that year...It was a wonderful time.
