girl scouts of the colonial coastFor so many Girl Scouts, young and old, Camp Apasus holds a special place in their hearts. Memories of troop camping, day camp and outdoor training, are memories that some of us share.
The camp has a long history. During World War II, Camp Apasus - the day camp program, was moved from City Park to property owned by the City of Norfolk on Mason’s Creek, known as Pilgrim’s Rest. During the 1940s, girls got to camp by catching the bus and taking it to the stop right before Mason’s Creek, where they were greeted by a camp counselor and a traffic officer to assist in crossing the street.
In 1949, the camping guide required list to bring to camp consisted of: a cup, bandana, comb, clean handkerchief, and a knife. Girls also had to bring a nosebag lunch on days that they did not cook-out. The camping guide said that an ideal nosebag lunch would contain sandwiches, fruit, vegetables, and cookies.
It was around that time when the Norfolk Sertoma Club became involved as a supporter of the camp. Thanks to the Norfolk Sertoma Club, the camp has had years of support! Several camp buildings were built, including the Sertoma Lodge that offers indoor program accommodations. The Club has also provided camp with canoes, an archery range along with gear, a pool, fencing and other camp. Best of all, they have given GSCCC funds to extend the camp experience to girls who might not otherwise have the opportunity to go to camp.
Each year, Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast holds a camp luncheon to say thank you to this amazing community partner, the Sertoma Luncheon. This year, due to circumstances, the outdoor luncheon at camp was cancelled. Instead, GSCCC CEO Tracy Keller was invited to present at a Club breakfast - so our tradition continues!
Tracy was able to share information about programs held at Camp Apasus during this membership year and our hopes for the future. We know that girls still love to explore the outdoors and study nature, swim, make nature crafts, participate in canoeing and archery and more - just as they did eighty years ago!
