50 Years of Camping the History of Mount Nemo Scout Camp 1946 - 1996

50 YEARS OF CAMPING THE HISTORY OF MOUNT NEMO SCOUT CAMP 1946 - 1996

HAMILTON WENTWORTH DISTRICT

INTRODUCTION

Since Scouting began in Hamilton Wentworth in 1909, camping has been an important aspect of the program offered to our youth. Summer camps were established early in our history. In the summer of 1910, Scouts travelled via steamer to Oaklands on the north bay shore for our first District camp. The first permanent campsite was Camp Tetonkah, located on leased railway land near Port Maitland. It operated from 1923 to 1939. Scouts would travel by T.H. & B. rail from the current day GO Station to Camp Tetonkah. In 1942, the Hermitage property was leased on Sulphur Springs Road to become our next camp. A headquarters building and Rover hut were constructed. Both buildings were eventually moved to Camp Nemo. When the proposed purchase price for the Hermitage property proved too expensive, the property on Bronte Creek was located and purchased on November 7, 1946, and became Mount Nemo Scout Camp.

Camp Nemo would not be our only camping asset. In 1961 Ragged Falls Canoe Base was obtained and shortly thereafter, a building was built on the 11 acre leased site. The Woodburn Scout Camp, located on 5 acres of leased land near Binbrook was held briefly from 1963 to 1965.

Many memories have been created by the camping experiences of our members over the 50 year history of Camp Nemo. The continued support and devotion of our membership to their camp and to its support of the annual Apple Day campaign will ensure that many more memories will be created in the future.

This book is dedicated to all those who helped generations of Scouts get ready for camp and who safely transported them there and back. They are truly the unsung heroes of Nemo.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

1 IN THE BEGINNING 1

2 THE BUILDINGS 2

3 THE SPECIAL PLACES 13

4 DEVELOPMENT OF THE CAMP 18

5 EVENTS 21

6 FACTORING THROUGH THE YEARS 28

7 THE WARDEN STORY 33

8 THE PEOPLE 34

9 VOICES OF NEMO PAST AND PRESENT 38

10 SUMMARY OF BOARD AND COMMISSIONER REPORTS 54

11 THE ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION 67

1. IN THE BEGINNING

William Spence. Andrew McBride purchased the property on August 24, 1871. The property was then sold on April 25, 1872 to William George Sinclair, who acquired a further 6 acres of Lot 7 on October 13, 1880.

The following were the next owners of the land:

June 9, 1908 Grant Wilbert Sinclair

April 2, 1914 Joseph G. Clifton

January 28, 1915 Hugh and Mary Ann Forgie

October 23, 1918 John Malin

October 1, 1921 Samuel and Florence French

The last owners defaulted on a mortgage to Jennie Byrne during the depression. She died February 13, Mount Nemo Scout Camp is located near the former 1946. The property was purchased from her estate for Village of Zimmerman located at the corner of Appleby $5,200 on November 7, 1946, and title was taken in the Line and No. 2 Sideroad on Bronte Creek, or Twelve name of three members of what was then called Hamil- Mile Creek as it was once called. Around 1814, Peter ton District Council: Gordon M. Jackson; Redvers D. Zimmerman acquired land near Appleby Line. His F. Bourne and Alfred W. E. VanSomeren. three sons eventually farmed there. The property was transferred to the Provincial Council, One of the sons built a large flouring mill, a sawmill, a which holds the property for Hamilton Wentworth Dis- turning factory, a house and a store on his property on trict, on June 29, 1965. the east side of Appleby Line at No. 2 Sideroad. Zim- merman grew to have a shoe shop, tailor shop, carpen- Prior to the purchase of the property, the farm house ter and blacksmith shops and its own post office in the which had been located near Tetonka Lodge burned general store. The original school was built in 1873, down while the farmer was away shopping. When the but its replacement, built in 1929 still stands on the east property was purchased, the only two buildings which side of Appleby Line. Zimmerman Methodist Church, remained were the barn, including a shed, and a now Trinity Baptist Church was built in 1891. A num- chicken coop. The barn was located where the over- ber of the local houses were built by the early settlers. flow parking lot is today. The chicken coop was located on the road to B.P. Lodge and would become one The Zimmerman Mill burned to the ground on January of the early Scout buildings. 14, 1914. The village slowly declined until the general store closed during the 1930's. Two buildings from the Sulphur Springs Camp at the Hermitage were moved to the new campsite The land on which Mount Nemo Scout Camp now sits was originally granted from the Crown to 2 different farmers. Thomas Moore received a crown patent to 200 acres in Lot 7 of Concession 2 on June 1, 1808. 50 acres of this land was sold to John McLaren on Novem- ber 6, 1847. John McLaren then obtained a crown patent to the 100 acres in Lot 8 of Concession 2 on De- cember 11, 1849, bringing his total farm to 150 acres. On November 18, 1867, the property was sold to 2. THE BUILDINGS

The following is the story of the buildings that have were made in 1947. It wasn't until 1949 that work been and continue to be a part of the history of the crews installed new walls, installed a new floor and camp. The buildings are listed in the order they ap- reversed the walls bringing the windows up to peared and, in some cases, disappeared from the prop- "human" height. The inside was lined with "insulation erty. boards" and the outside with log siding.

During construction, Gord Williams and 2nd Hamil- ton Sea Scout Leader Phil Sharp were busy shovelling ORIGINAL FARM BARN the accumulated corruption from the coop when a cu- This building consisted of a large barn with a shed rious old ram wandered over. Every time they tried to which housed a Blacksmith's forge. The basement of open the door, the ram would butt it shut. They finally the barn had been used for pigs and cows. The loft was enticed him to the far end of the coop and Phil escaped filled with hay. It apparently was built around 1900. to get help. He returned with the farmer who simply The foundation only went 1 foot into the ground and tied a rope around the ram's neck and threw the other rested on stones. Some camping took place in it during end on the ground. "You're O.K. now fellows", an- the first winter. After the first winter, the local building nounced the farmer. "What do you mean?", they re- inspector recommended that the barn be torn down as it plied, "he's not tied to anything!" The farmer smiled was a hazard with Scouts swinging from beam to beam. and said, "I know that, and you know that, but that ram thinks he is, and he won't budge until I come back Wood from the barn was used to build the Headquarters to untie him". True to the farmer's word, the ram did building, Gibson Rover Den and to complete Hencher not move. When Gord told the story to his secretary Rover Den. The foundation remained for many years Marg Stanton (nee Flurry) back at the Scout office, and was only uncovered when the parking lot was ex- Marg said, "We should call the place Ram Inn". The panded in the early 1980's. Some of the rock from the name stuck. barn can be found piled up by the Wood Shed. The building was 14' x 30' and was located on the west side of the road to B.P. Lodge. It contained two wood RAM INN stoves, two ice boxes, eight bunks, a sink and coal oil lamps. It also featured the "King's Arms", a nearby 4- holed outhouse or K.Y.B.O.

The building was well used until the winter of 1969 when a Troop went to camp for the weekend. The building was gone, with only the corner of a bunk bed sticking out of the snow. It had burned during the week, probably as a result of hot embers from the wood stove being left too close to the wood pile.

Sketch by Tom Rogerson of Ram Inn - 1946

The former chicken coop, less the chickens and their by-products, became the first Scout Lodge. Originally, the windows were lined along the bottom of the building to give the birds light. A work party in 1946 was able to clean out the remnants of chicken in order to make the building barely liveable. Some improvements Ram Inn - 1949 TETONKA LODGE HEADQUARTERS BUILDING

This is actually two buildings, and represents the Located on the site of the present B.P. Lodge, this camping history of the council. The back of the build- building was built in 1947 from Quonset huts donated ing is a 12' x 20' hut which was moved from the camp by the City of Hamilton with the help of Controller, at Sulphur Springs. It was originally called the HDQ and active Scouter, Andy Frame. Wood was also sal- Hut and was used as a tool shed when it first arrived at vaged from the barn for use in construction. The Camp Nemo. It was moved to its present location building was used for leader training and as a home south of the parking lot, placed on foundations and for the Camp Factor. converted into a patrol cabin. It was named after the council's first camp on Lake Erie, Camp Tetonkah. As the first newly constructed building in camp, a great deal of pride was taken in its construction. Dur- In 1960, a 12' x 30' construction hut was donated by ing 1949 and 1950, the Scouter's Club members built a Baldasaro and MacGregor Contractors and was added large stone fireplace using stones from the old barn. to Tetonka as a second room. The building was used In 1949, a kitchen was built, a window and door added as a Scout Lodge until the completion of Gordon Wil- and a drainage system installed. In 1950, new floors liams Lodge in 1970. It then reverted to a storage were laid, and propane stoves were installed. The Dis- building for activity supplies. trict Ladies' Auxiliary was responsible for making the lodge a "homier" place by adding curtains and furni- In the early 1980's, the building was refurbished by ture. They also provided cooking and eating supplies Scouters from Dundas. A garage door was installed, and catered many of the functions which took place in which was replaced in 1995. the building. In 1951 the kitchen was updated and a new road was built to the building. A museum was located in the building

The Headquarters Building burned down on December 28, 1952. The fire was well reported in the local newspapers including an article in the December 29 edition of the Globe and Mail. There are 2 versions of what happened. Some say it was the work of a dis- gruntled leader. Others say that it was the result of a practical joke that went very wrong. In any event, the building's loss was a great setback for the District and its new camp. The Factor's Lodge, Stockade and the building which eventually became known as B.P. Lodge were built in 1953 to replace it.

Tetonka - 1961

Headquarters building - date unknown Tetonka - 1997 HENCHER ROVER DEN after Robert Gibson, a former Rover Leader of the 40th Hamilton Rover Crew, District Rover Leader and Built in 1947 by the 7th, 27th, 40th and 43rd Rover Skipper of most of the Crews in Hamilton at the time. Crews, this building was named after John Hencher, a former Assistant District Commissioner for Rovers. The lodge was 14' x 22', and had a sink, four oil Peter Walker advises that the 22nd Rover Crew built lamps, a wood stove, an ice box, two bunks, one table the building. It was built from the bunkie used at the and two benches. Sulphur Springs site and wood from the barn. It was located on the north side of the Rover Field. A fire The building was rebuilt inside in 1950. In 1951, it door was added to the rear in 1959. It was heated by a was lined, painted, had a veranda added and movable wood stove, had a table, four folding chairs, four oil bunks and a new stove installed. lamps for lighting, an ice box and 2 double bunk beds The building was being repaired on October 15, 1954 The Annual Report for 1951 indicates that Hencher when Hurricane Hazel blew it over the side of the hill. Hut was completed. Perhaps the building was refur- It was rebuilt in 1957, and after a small fire was re- bished during the year. modelled in 1958 with the addition of the kitchen. The building was taken down in the late 1960's. In 1964, a Troop camping in both Hencher and Gibson Rover Dens stoked the fire in Hencher prior to going You can still see where the building sat by taking the to Gibson for supper. Shortly afterwards, the building trail down the hill from the north-east corner of the was in flames. It burned to the ground. Rover Field. The hill was excavated to create a small plateau for the building to sit on. If you look nearby, There is evidence of the location of Hencher Rover there is still a sign on a tree pointing the way to the Den. The pipe from its water tank is still visible in "Swimming Pool" that we know as Bronte Creek. the north tree line in the Rover Field. APPLE DAY LODGE

The Cub Lair, as it was originally called, was built in 1950 at a cost of $5,500. It was originally the size of today's main room with a small kitchen area behind a large stone fireplace. An addition was built by Rovers in 1958 at a cost of $900. Upon completion of the addition, the building had a large main room with six tables, twelve benches and twelve oil lamps. The bedroom had two double bunks with an indoor "bucket" toilet. The kitchen had a gas stove, double sinks and an ice box.

The building was eventually named Apple Day Lodge when other Cub Lairs were built.

It was insulated in 1971 to help provide facilities for winter Cub camping. Although structurally sound, the building gradually fell into disrepair. During the summer of 1991, the building was completely renovated. Hencher Rover Den Electricity was added in May and during the Canada Day weekend, the building was completely gutted. During the summer and into the fall, the building was GIBSON ROVER DEN made level, insulated, drywalled, panelled, new windows and doors were installed, and the exterior was The scrap wood from the barn was used by the 2nd painted. The total cost was over $14,000. A new deck Stoney Creek, 9th, 27th and 40th Rover Crews to build was added the following summer. The building was this building in 1947. It was located just over the hill at officially reopened by a representative from each the north-east corner of the Rover Field. It was named Wolf Cub Pack present at Cub Fun Day on October 5, Harvester Lodge. The cost of the three new buildings 1991. was $11,400.

The building is 30' x 50'. It originally consisted of a main hall with a solid maple floor, and a kitchen and leader's bedroom located off of a hallway from the northern entrance. The building was named after the Founder when the Adult Training Lodge was built in the lower valley in 1958.

The building was heated by a wood fireplace and oil stove. Unfortunately the heat rarely made it to the leader's bedroom in the winter!

Despite a new roof being installed in 1977 at a cost of $900, the building fell into disrepair over time. The walls began to spread at the base, with the result that Apple Day Lodge - 1950 you could see outside through the south-east corner. The fireplace also became unusable. The greatest Tragedy was averted in the early morning of November problem however, was caused when the floor joists 3, 1996. The previous night, a carelessly thrown ciga- shifted off their footings, causing the maple floor to rette dropped between the porch and front wall. It take on a ripple effect. Many a night a leader would smouldered on a wooden beam while the group inside trip over the floor while checking on his young slept. Flames erupted up the front exterior around 3 a.m. charges! Due to the fact the building was air tight, the smoke de- tectors did not sound the alarm. Quick thinking leaders Renovations began in the fall of 1981 when the build- got all the youth out of the building and the Factor man- ing was gutted. The wooden floor joists found their aged to keep the fire under control until the Fire Depart- way into the Stockade when it was rebuilt in 1982. ment arrived. The building suffered a loss of about Eventually water and electricity were added, the walls $7,000 which was covered by insurance. tied in, a new insulated cement floor installed, and the building was insulated, and completely refurbished. A B.P. LODGE mud room was added to the front. The building was completed and open for business in early 1984 at a total cost of about $25,000. The electrical heating was removed and a new forced air propane furnace installed in 1996.

B.P. Lodge - 1953

Originally known as the Leader's Training Lodge, this building rose from the ashes of the Headquarters Build- ing in 1953. It was built at the same time as the Factor's B.P. Lodge - late 1980’s Lodge and the Stockade from panels made from a new material from Switzerland called "Durisol". The same material was used at Scout House and later at FACTORS LODGE STOCKADE

Built in 1953, this building originally consisted of only The first Stockade was built in 1953. It held District the area from the kitchen wall back to the bedrooms. equipment, refrigerators and the telephone. The There was no indoor plumbing. A 10' addition was "Explosion Hut" used to be located to the west of the added across the front in 1963 at a cost of $3,000. Wa- Stockade. Painted red, all fuel used in stoves and ter and electricity were added in 1964, and at the same lamps was kept here. It was eventually dismantled. time a small addition was built on to the east side to house the washroom and pumping facilities. A hot water heater was added in 1978. The building was insulated and wood siding was added in November 1980. To make the Factor's life a quieter one, the pump and tank were moved to the former shower shack in 1982.

Stockade - 1950’s

Electricity was added in 1970 and 10 used refrigerators were purchased for $35 each in May 1971 as ice was no longer available in Burlington for the ice boxes which had been located in the buildings until this time. Factor’s Lodge - 1953 A new cement foundation was installed in 1979. Wooden siding was added in November 1980. The lodge is used only by the Factor and family. The district is fortunate to have a full team of factors who The lumber from the former Adult Training Lodge manage the camp during the weekend. Factors are se- was also stored here when the building was disman- lected and trained by the Property Committee. A Fac- tled. On Easter Monday, 1981, it is believed that chil- tor’s manual is updated at the annual Factors meeting dren playing with matches in the straw stored beside in January when a schedule is drawn for Factor's as- the stockade caused the fire that destroyed the build- signments during the upcoming year. ing. A spent fire extinguisher was found in Nemo Creek so it appears that the fire was an accident.

The Stockade was rebuilt during 1982 as a two storey building. Much of the wood used was donated from Dofasco from planks used during a furnace reline. The camp purchased a table saw to cut the planks to the proper size. Lumber was also salvaged from B.P. Lodge during its renovation.

The building holds training equipment, refrigerators, a freezer, and the District's tents and other camping equipment. It also houses the "Tuck Shop" during special events.

The camp phone is located at the front of the building Factor’s Lodge - 1993 to this day . ST. GILES LODGE Rovers from a number of different Crews. It was built from materials provided by nature in that area. The This patrol cabin had been used by the St. Giles' United building was named when, after a long day of con- Church Skating Club as a changing hut at its ice rink struction, one of the members of the work crew an- next to the church.. It was donated by the church and nounced that he was "ALL IN". The name stuck. moved out to camp in 1954. Some additions were Popular for winter camping, All Inn was repaired with made to it. It was located in the south-east corner of a new roof and new boards from time to time. Finally the Sports Field near the present Pump House. It origi- time took its toll on the building and it could no longer nally was used as a four-boy cabin, but in the winter of be repaired. 1958 was remodelled at a cost of $120 and made into a two room, eight-boy cabin. It was heated with a wood A plan for an "Adirondak Shelter" had been developed stove and had a sink, ice box, table, two benches, four in the early 1980's. Approval was received from the double bunk beds and six oil lamps for lighting. City of Burlington and from the Halton Region Con- servation Authority for the construction of twelve of these shelters in the lower valley in the fall of 1989.

St. Giles - 1954

After the construction of Panabode "A" in 1970, St. All Inn - 1954 Giles was deemed unsafe. During the Victoria Day Camporee in 1970, the building was stuffed with balls The first new shelter, Charterhouse was built in early of newspaper, and set alight to become one of the big- 1990. Scouters from Huron Division then built Di- gest planned campfires in Nemo history. nizulu Den and the new All Inn in June 1990 to complete the three shelters in what is now called Pod 2.

With the completion of a replacement, what remained of the original All Inn was torn down and used for firewood.

ALL INN

The original camp "lean-to" or Adirondak shelter was All Inn - 1989 built beside the current All Inn in 1954 by leaders and HARVESTER LODGE the propane tanks, allowing ice to freeze the regulator. This caused propane to release into the building under Number 2 Cub Lair, as it was once called, was built in pressure, causing a fire which was quickly put out by 1958 at a cost of $7,758 from Apple Day funds and a Gerry, who had recovered after tripping over Mandy. $2,500 donation from the International Harvester Em- They had saved the building! The building was closed ployees United Charities Fund. Contributions were for a short period while the insurance company made by the fund for a number of years thereafter for the cleaned up the extensive smoke damage. In the end, upkeep of the building. we had a freshly painted building.

Electricity was added in 1991 and in 1998 an extensive renovation was completed resulting in an addition on the back to house a furnace and the “mud” room. Renovations to the bedroom and kitchen were done and financed by the Rotary Club of Burlington Central.

ADULT TRAINING LODGE

Harvester Lodge - 1958 The Training Lodge was located in the Training Field in the valley between the Sports Field and Old Baldy. The building was officially opened by representatives It was built by Rovers on Thanksgiving weekend in from International Harvester in July, 1958. It originally 1958 at a cost of $950. The Training Committee built had a wall running down the middle of it. The front area a kitchen addition in 1959. The bunkie for the cooks was used for eating and sleeping. The back part was di- was near by and is now located behind the Warden's vided into a large kitchen and a leader's bedroom. The house. A dining shelter was added to the lodge in building also had propane gas lights. Windows were 1960. installed in the front a few years after the opening. When the Bronte Creek bridge at No. 2 Sideroad was destroyed by ice in the spring of 1978, the road became a dead-end by our lower gate, and an invitation to vandalism. We couldn't protect the building and it was dismantled in 1981, with the lumber stored in the Stockade which was destroyed by fire in April 1981.

The foundation from the dining shelter is still visible along with a set of cement steps. A building could not be placed at this location now due to restrictions by the Conservation Authority.

Harvester Lodge - July, 1958 at Grand Opening

In an effort to provide winter Cub camp facilities, the floor was insulated in 1969 at a cost of $400, “as an ex- periment”. Insulation and wood siding were added in 1981. Further renovations in 1981 extended the area for youth, reduced the size of the kitchen and created two small leader bedrooms.

We were lucky in 1988 when our warden, Gerry Bluhm, and his dog, Mandy, were out on rounds one night checking the building. The cap had been left off one of Adult Training Lodge - date unknown SPECTATOR LODGE sure what happened. "Temporary" repairs were made to level the building. Electricity was installed in 1991. The third Cub Lair was built thanks to a donation from the Hamilton Spectator in 1960. It was constructed by Due to the costs of placing the building on a proper joining two Halliday garages. It was officially opened foundation, and other repairs that had to be made, it June 24, 1961 by Reverend John Witzel of Mount was decided to replace this building. In the spring of Hamilton United Church during the first public open 1996, the Executive Board gave its approval for the house at Mount Nemo Scout Camp. Official recogni- construction of a new 24' x 60' building once funding tion was also given to the two Troops representing the was complete. The name of the new building is District at the 3rd Canadian Scout Jamboree. The 17th "Anniversary Lodge" . Spectator Lodge was torn down Hamilton Wolf Cub Pack participated. the winter of 97 /98

This 20' x 40' building has a main hall, kitchen and leader's bedrooms. Minor renovations in 1981 removed an indoor toilet and changed the layout of the bedrooms slightly.

Anniversary Lodge in front of Spectator Lodge - 1997

HENCHER DEN

This building was completed in September 1965 at a Spectator Lodge - 1961 cost of $1,500 to replace its namesake destroyed by fire the previous year. Insulation of the floor, walls and ceiling took place in 1969. It has always been a popular building for small groups, and is the only building still heated by a wood stove.

Hencher Den received new footings in 1991 and was renovated in 1992.

Spectator Lodge - 1997

Unfortunately, the building was built on small concrete block footings which shifted over time. This caused the main joists to begin to rotate. The rotation completed when during the Victoria Day Camporee in 1983, the building crashed to the ground. The Venturer Camp staff occupying the building still are not quite Hencher Den - 1992 ROVER CHALET when a church project defaulted. Concrete block walls were used in the kitchen pod because there were three This building was built by the Rovers during 1965 and beams short. 1966 at a cost of $4,000. The building was officially opened January 15, 1967. It originally had a large Construction costs were originally approved in 1966 at brick fireplace which was removed in 1971 because it $15,000. Unfortunately, the building took longer to was a fire hazard. It was replaced by an "Acorn" wood build and cost more than had been anticipated. The stove. Original plans called for the building to be used building was started in 1967 and completed in 1969 at a as a hostel for travelling Rover Crews. total cost of $37,500.

When plans called for the building to be moved, the Rovers held fund raising dances, or "The Chalet Shuf- fle" to finance the project. Some of the money raised was used by the Rovers to shingle the building in 1991 and replace the windows in 1992. Renovations were completed in 1994 when the building was insulated, drywalled in the downstairs, had a new floor installed, was painted throughout and had vinyl siding installed. A deck was also added to the front. Some landscaping was done to draw water away from the building.

Confederation Lodge - 1994

There were ongoing problems heating the building. Originally, two oil furnaces heated the front two pods, while a third oil furnace located above the washrooms heated the kitchen, bedroom and washroom area. Elec- tric baseboard heaters replaced the third furnace in 1982. These in turn were replaced by a forced air propane furnace in 1995. The furnaces in the front pods had been replaced by propane units in 1991.

The building originally had large double-pane windows, many of which were broken over the years. These were replaced by smaller window units in 1992. Over the years the building has suffered the woes of a leaking roof. Dome skylights were removed in 1994.

Originally used for large groups only, camping by all sections was allowed when the need arose for additional facilities due to the advent of Beaver overnight camping. Rover Chalet 1994 PANABODE "A" CONFEDERATION LODGE The construction of this and Gordon Williams Lodge Located on the site of the former baseball diamond, the was approved on January 29, 1970 at a total cost of building was built as a Centennial Project in 1967. $14,600, including furnishings. The foundations were Originally called Confederation Field House, its unique installed by contractors in May 1970. George design was to make use of laminated beams given to us Lethbridge and crew assembled the building kits, which arrived in the spring, and the building was ready for use Originally heated with a Franklin wood stove, only the in October 1970. upper floor was available for Scout use. The lower floor was used as an equipment storage area. In time, it Originally heated with a Franklin wood stove, only the was found that the building could not be adequately upper floor was available for Scout use. The lower heated. A space heater was installed in January 1972. floor was used as a workshop for the warden before the barn was built. In time, it was found that the building Gordon William Lodge also suffered the same fate at could not be adequately heated by the wood stove. A Panabode “A” during the Fire Department inspection in space heater was installed in January 1972. 1980 The wood stove was identical and was also deemed to be unsafe. $7,500 was approved for the renovation of both panabodes in 1981, including the installation of stairwells, kitchen, electricity, new doors, forced air propane furnaces and eating areas. October 1981 saw the start of the structural renovations with the finishing touches taking several years to complete.

New windows were installed in April 1996.

Panabode “A” - 1993

During a Fire Department inspection in the fall of 1980, it was determined that the wood stove was unsafe. In 1981, the sum of $7,500 was approved for the renovation of both panabodes, including the installation of stairwells, kitchen, electricity, new doors, forced air propane furnaces and eating areas. Most of the structural renovations to Panabode “A” were complete by October 1981. Finishing touches would take several Gordon Williams Lodge - 1995 years. WARDEN’S HOUSE A drainage problem in the building caused flooding during wet winter conditions and was eliminated when Built in 1972 at a cost of $20,000, this has been the new drainage was installed in the fall of 1990. New home of our camp warden and his family. Improve- windows were installed in April 1996. ments were made during 1994, 1995 and 1996 which include new windows and doors, new roof, improve- GORDON WILLIAMS LODGE ments to the bathroom, and the installation of a wood stove. The construction of this and Panabode “A” were approved on January 29, 1970 at a total cost of $14,600, including furnishings. The foundations were installed by contractors in May 1970. George Lethbridge and crew assembled the building kits, which arrived in the spring, and the building was ready for use in October 1970. The building was named after Gordon Williams, District Scout Executive (Executive Director) from 1946 to 1968. The official opening, with Gordon Wil- liams present, took place on December 6, 1970. Rever- end Robin Sharp dedicated the building. Warden’s House - Date unknown WARDEN’S BARN CHARTERHOUSE & DINIZULU DEN

Built in 1974-75 as a workshop for the warden, this These new Adirondak shelters were built along with a building also houses building supplies, the camp trac- new “All Inn” in 1990. The three shelters are referred tors, Apple Day supplies and equipment turned in by to as Pod 2. Scout Groups that have ceased operations.

Two additions have been built: to the east side in 1982 and to the west side in 1989.

Charterhouse during the construction phase - 1990

WOLF LAIR & MOOSE FACTORY

These new Adirondak shelters were built in 1991. To- gether with “Beaver Den”, these three shelters are referred to as Pod 1. Rear of the Warden’s Barn - 1993

BEAVER DEN QUETICO HUT & KILLARNEY Built in the 1970's to supplement All Inn, this building was used as a headquarters for the annual Sap Tap These two Adirondaks were completed at the base of event. Extensive renovations, including a new roof, the tractor road leading to “The Back Forty” in the were made in the fall of 1989 . spring of 1994, and are referred to as Pod 4. It is planned that Pod 3 will be built near the base of the Beaver Den was joined by two new Adirondak shelters “back” of Campfire Hill. in 1991 with the construction of “Wolf Lair” and “Moose Factory”. This completed the three shelters in what became known as Pod 1.

Beaver Den - 1989 3. THE SPECIAL PLACES

THE BACK FORTY SCOUT COUNCIL FIRE CIRCLE (CAMPFIRE HILL) The south-east corner of the camp was one of the first reforested. Long used for hiking and wide games, it Originally built in 1949 by the 22nd Rover Crew, the was used by Dundurn Scouts during the 1994-95 Scout- original campfire area was adorned by numerous totem ing season to develop the Camp Conservation Plan. poles built by various groups. Over the years, the area fell into disrepair and it was all rebuilt by Scouters from the former King's Forest Division in 1979. It is now maintained by the Hamilton Gilwell Club. THE BIRD RESERVE

Located on what is now known as campfire hill, this area of the camp was set aside as a sanctuary for birds. During the winter season, bird feeding stations were set up throughout the area. No camping was allowed on the hill, nor in the area around the base of the hill.

B. P. CHAPEL

Located near Campfire Hill, this was built by the 22nd Rover Crew. Time and erosion of the hill upon which it was built led to its being dismantled in the late 1970's.

B. P. HIGHWAY

This was the name given to the main road into camp from the entrance to the parking lot. In order to reduce the speed of cars entering the camp a sign which read "Speed Electrically Timed" was once posted. Over the years, the road became known for its many potholes, Entrance to Campfire Hill now known as "natural speed bumps". The road is constantly being repaired. These notes were taken from CROW'S NEST the 1969 annual report: "Everyone knows that the condition of the roads at Nemo has not been the best in the Crow's Nest is the camping area at the top of the hill past; however, with the addition of over 200 tons of across Nemo Creek from the bottom of the tractor road gravel there should be no more trouble in this area, ex- beside Gordon Williams Lodge. A tractor road once cept for the people who still think the colour of the crossed the face of the hill and provided access to the roads is grass green". south-west fields and to this popular campsite. The area is also used as the top of the aerial runway used at BYPASS POND many large events.

Located between Pod 1 and Pod 2 in the lower valley, THE CUB JUNGLE the pond was dug out to provide flood control by allow- This is the area in the valley behind Apple Day Lodge ing the runoff in Nemo Creek a place to back up. It from the base of the tractor road to the western fence froze over in winter and provided a place for skating. line. The pond eventually silted in. COLONEL DUBURGH CHAPEL

This chapel was located on the side of the hill just north of Panabode "A". It was built in 1957 by the 43rd Hamilton and 2nd Aldershot Rover Crews. It was named after the first appointed commissioner for Rover Scouts of the World. It was officially opened and dedicated at the Hamilton Rover Moot by John Hencher, Assistant Provincial Commissioner for Training and Robert Foster, Commissioner for Rover Scouts for Hamilton. It was dismantled in the late 1970's when it fell into disrepair.

Fleur-De-Lis Hill - 1967

At a later date, the stones were replaced by cement blocks placed level with the ground surface to allow for grass cutting. A total of 328 blocks and 11 diamond shaped blocks were used for the head stone and the two stars in the side wings. The blocks were donated by Cook Cement Company in Aldershot and the diamond blocks were made in wooden forms by Walt Simmons. It was built and maintained by Walt Simmons and the 12th Hamilton Rover Crew.

Colonel Duburgh Chapel - 1957 Some of the original field stones were later used to build the Memorial Bell Cairn in front of the Factors EXPLOSION HUT Lodge. A locomotive bell was mounted on the cairn.

Located between the Factor's Lodge and Stockade and The hill and campfire area have been maintained by nu- painted red, this building was where the camp supply of merous volunteers over the years, including Walt Sim- oil and gas was stored. mons, Scouters from King’s Forest Division during the 1970's and 1980's, and more recently, the Hamilton Gil- FLAG CIRCLE well Club. A main flag circle was once located in front of B. P. Lodge. It contained three flag poles, the main one for THE IRON BRIDGE the camp flag and two others for visiting groups. It was The bridge over Bronte Creek on No. 2 Side Road was replaced by a tall steel pole which could hold 3 flags a popular place in summer to get to the swimming hole and eventually taken down as being unserviceable. and to the property on the east bank of Bronte Creek. Now each building has its own flagpole. The bridge was built of iron and wood and was often the target of vandals who would set fire to the wooden deck on Halloween. It was destroyed by ice in the FLEUR-DE-LIS HILL spring of 1978. After a few years, the bridge was replaced by a modern structure Long a focal point of Mount Nemo Scout Camp, the symbol was originally created on a sloping hill using KING'S ARMS field stones. When it was first built, there were little or no trees in the camp, and so the symbol could be seen One of the fanciest K.Y.B.O.'s ever built at Camp from the B.P. Field and Cub Jungle. Nemo, this 4-holer was located at the south-east corner of B.P. Field. MEMORIAL CAIRN

Built by the 12th Rover Crew in 1958 out of stones from the original Fleur-de-lis Hill, this commemorated 50 years of World Scouting.

Mount Baldy

PAT MULLIGAN MEMORIAL CHAPEL

Located on the southern end of the Bird Sanctuary, the Memorial Cairn chapel was built in 1980 by members of the Hamilton Gilwell Club in memory of long time Scouter and MEMORIALS Trainer, Pat Mulligan.

A Bible kept in the Factor's Lodge was donated by the The chapel replaced the former Wolf Cub Chapel, 27th Group in memory of Donald Norton, killed when which had been located on the east side of the campfire struck by a car as he cycled to Mount Nemo on a For- circle, and the Colonel DuBurgh Chapel, located on the estry Weekend May 6, 1951, and in memory of Ralph hill behind Panabode A. Both chapels had been dis- Brook who died December 20, 1952. mantled during the late 1970's when they had deterio- rated to the state that they could not be repaired The painting of Baden Powell in B.P. Lodge was donated by the members of the 42nd Rover Crew in memory of Allan Sandiford who died in 1968.

The flagpole at Confederation Lodge was built by the 81st Venturer Company in memory of Patrick Forestall who died in a car accident while on his way to a canoe trip in 1971.

MOUNT BALDY

This constantly eroding feature located between Nemo and Bronte Creeks at the Training Field has been by far one of the most popular camp play areas for young children. It's a great place to get muddy, even when the rest of the camp is dry. Efforts to stop erosion on the Pat Mulligan Memorial Chapel hill have proven fruitless. THE NATURE GATE

This gate was located on No. 2 Side Road on the east side of the bridge. It allowed access to the property on the east side of Bronte Creek. NEMO CREEK THE PIPELINE

The creek meanders from the western camp boundary, In 1974, an easement over .94 acres at the 2 southern close to the southern boundary and then across the corners was granted to Interprovincial Pipe Line Lim- camp to Bronte Creek. Many fish travel upstream in ited for $3,500 for the construction of an oil pipeline. the spring to lay eggs. The stream can be a raging tor- The pipeline stretches 520 miles from Sarnia to Mont- rent during heavy rains, and almost dry in the summer real. months.

RACOON EYE TRAIL

This was the name given to the trail which runs from the end of the Training Site, around the Bird Sanctuary, passing all the Adirondaks, to the tractor crossing near Hencher Den.

REST-AND-BE-THANKFUL

The hill to the Training Field beside B.P. Lodge is named after what one does once one has made it to the top. Rumour has it that an additional foot is added to the hill every year !

THE ROVER GATE

In the very early years of the camp, this gate was located on No. 2 Side Road at what was next referred to as the Training gate. It is now simply referred to as the lower gate.

SPORTS FIELD OAK GROVE

After the 1983 World Jamboree at Kananaskis, Alberta, Hamilton Wentworth hosted 2 Troops of 77 English Originally, all sporting activities were conducted in this Scouts and leaders from Avon and Essex Counties in field now referred to as the Confed field. There was a England to a week of home hospitality. To commemo- baseball backstop where Confederation Lodge is now rate the event, an oak grove was planted in B.P. Field at located and basketball nets in the field. Mount Nemo, while Maple Trees were planted at SUICIDE HILL Woodhouse Park, Avon and Skreens Park (on Hamilton Avenue), Essex, England.

This former toboggan run was built with the use of a bulldozer in the early years of the camp and runs from THE PINES the top of the Bird Sanctuary down into the valley. It is This reforested area west of Apple Day Lodge is one of no longer used for tobogganing as it is too steep and the most popular camping areas at Camp Nemo. dangerous, due to the trees in the valley. THE SWIMMING HOLE TRAINING FIELD

Every year a dam was constructed in Bronte Creek. The field in the valley at the end of the lower camp Every year it was washed out by ice and high water. In road was the home of the Adult Training Lodge until 1951, a sandbag dam was used to raise the water level the lodge was dismantled in 1981. A sign over the road to 48". In 1956 a dam was built which created a swim- at the gate once stated, "As you have learned, so shall ming pool 100 feet by 5' 6" in depth at the dam. you teach." Gordon Williams would recruit Rolph Barnes to bulldoze the dam into place in the later years. Construction finally ceased in the mid 1960's.

TRUMAN-REID TRAIL

The Swimming Hole - date unknown

TRACTOR ROAD 1957

Started in 1981, it was hoped to run the road from the This trail went from the south-east corner of B. P. Field Training Field, around Campfire Hill to the hill beside (once called Headquarters Field), along the side of the Gordon Williams Lodge. Two gabion mat crossings hill behind what is now Panabode "A", behind Gibson are now in place. One was seriously damaged by heavy Lodge, and wound down the hill to the entrance to the rains in July 1995. The road is used to allow for tractor Training Site. The trail was named in memory of a for- access to the Adirondak Pods. In many places, it fol- mer Rover Leader of the 11th Hamilton Rover Crew. lows the route of the original farm trail around the property. The original route also had roads up the face of Crow's Nest to the south-west field, and up from Pod 4 to the Back Forty. 4. DEVELOPMENT OF THE CAMP

THE COMMITTEES In 1964, the Conservation Authority completed a study of Nemo Creek and announced plans to build a dam In the early days, there were 3 separate camps located across the valley below B.P. Lodge, which would cre- at Mount Nemo Scout Camp. The Wolf Cub, Scout ate a lake 28 feet in depth, and back the water up to the and Rover Camps were each operated by separate first tractor crossing on Bronte Creek. Plans did not Camp Committees and worked with Tom Rogerson, A. proceed but in 1973-74, the council prepared plans to D.C. Training. The Cub Camp was located on the west build its own dam. Plans were discontinued when the side of the B.P. Highway. The Scout Camp was lo- Camp Development Plan was being prepared. cated to the south of the Sports Field and the Rover Camp was located to the north of the Sports Field. On December 4, 1979, The Camp Development Plan was unveiled in a presentation at Scott Park Secondary In the early 1950's this operation was replaced by one School. Created by the Planistics Group in conjunction Camp Committee, with each member responsible for a with the Camp Development Committee, the plan building or other aspect of the camp. This concept con- called for the development of many new facilities in- tinued well into the 1960's. In 1988, the Property Com- cluding a pool, new Cub Lodge, family camping area, mittee was formed to oversee the responsibility of all training lodge, amphitheatre, new roads, a second en- council properties, including Scout House, Ragged trance to the main part of camp and additional parking. Falls Canoe Base and Mount Nemo Scout Camp. The cost of the plan was never determined, nor were there resources to raise the necessary capital and oper-

ating funds. THE PLANS Although the plan was never fully implemented, the In 1960, a 20-year plan was proposed for the develop- early 1980's saw a period of development and activity ment of Camp Nemo. It included roads to the back at Camp Nemo which has never been duplicated. Un- fields, a total of 10 Cub Lodges, numerous campsites der the guidance of Property Committee Chairman Ron and a swimming pool. Pine, many volunteers spent numerous Saturdays and Sundays rebuilding B.P. Lodge, the Stockade, finishing In 1964, a report to the Executive Board recommended the basements in the Panabodes, moving water lines that the older buildings be replaced over time and that a and the pump facilities, adding electricity to 3 more new Field House be built in the Sports Field. Ram Inn buildings, starting the tractor trail around the valley would burned down by accident, Gibson Hut and St. and adding an addition on the barn. When Ron’s term Giles were taken down, and the Rover Chalet and the was completed, many of the buildings had been up- two Panabodes were built. The Field House became dated, or had the plans in place to be updated. In addi- Confederation Lodge. tion the roads and parking had expanded.

During his tenure as Property Committee Chairman, Bill Phillips developed a 10 year capital plan for the development of camp. Although the funding was not obtained to finance the plan, many of the developments contemplated have been completed by subsequent committees.

Through successive Property Committee Chairmen, Brian Laing, Rick Elop and Mike Lethbridge, buildings have been modernized and brought up to modern building and fire code standards through countless hours of labour from many volunteers. The pace has been hectic at times as deadlines to finish buildings were reached.

Gordie Williams Lodge construction - 1970 Another well was drilled in the lower valley near the present tractor crossing near Hencher Den.

Charterhouse - 1990

In 1995 the Council adopted the Conservation Plan for Mount Nemo Scout Camp. Under the guidance of Dr. Hague “Doc” Vaughan, a plan was developed with in- Remains of Well near Hencher Den put from the youth for the future of Camp Nemo based on principles of Land Stewardship. The plan will de- The final attempt at a well was drilled at the rear of the velop over the next few years and will entitle the youth Bird Reserve or Campfire Hill. It turned out to be an members to have an active role in creating natural habi- artesian well which contained sulphur. The well pipe tat for wildlife, allow for sustainable growth and active can still be found just south of the base of Fleur-de-lis use of the property and encourage a wide range of Hill. camping experiences for the membership. The plan has been recognized in the both Scouting and the outside world as a model for all camps to follow.

THE WATER SYSTEM

The lack of drinking water was one of the reasons we didn't purchase the Hermitage property for our camp in 1945. The purchase price was another reason! Unfor- tunately, drinking water has been an ongoing challenge to the development of Camp Nemo.

The first well was drilled 20 feet east of the Factors Lodge, 60 feet deep and cost $500. The water turned out to be full of sulphur and unfit for drinking. The well was plugged with the trunk of a tree.

The second well was drilled 50 feet down at the rear of Apple Day Lodge. The cost was $350. Water tests were favourable during the winter months but turned The Final attempt sour during the summer. The well and pump are still visible in the tree line behind Apple Day Lodge. For a brief time, each building had its own water tank. Tanks were donated by the Steel Company and were The third well was drilled 50 feet deep in front of B.P. installed beginning in 1956. This method did not work Lodge. It cost $500. The water was drinkable but of- because the water would turn sour in the summer ten, the well ran dry and it was filled in during the re- months. Two of these tanks may still be seen. The one construction of B.P. Lodge. for the original Hencher Rover Den is in the tree line at the north side of Rover Field. The second may be seen in the side of the hill east of Apple Day Lodge.

Finally in 1961 a 5000 gallon drinking water tank was constructed by Dave Peat at a cost of $2,000. The wa- Canada moved to Camp Nemo in 1976 when 5000 trees ter was pumped by a pump located in the Factors were planted in Apple Day field. This event, now Lodge to stand pipes around the camp. Over time, called Scoutrees, has been held at Camp Nemo ever those pipes corroded and were not replaced. The cur- since. Open areas began to be reforested. In 1990 we rent system of water lines has been in place since 1982 took over the south-west corner of the property which when the pump was moved to the former Shower until then had been farmed by a neighbouring farmer. Shack, which had been built in 1972. That building Efforts have been made to expand the tree lines as older was replaced by the current Pump House in the fall of species of hawthorn and poplar have died out. The size 1993. Late in 1996, a chlorification system was re- of open fields has been reduced by moving mature trees quired by the Halton Region Health Department and and allowing smaller trees to grow. Between 1976 and was installed in the Pump House. 1996, almost 250,000 trees have been planted at Mount Nemo Scout Camp through Scoutrees. REFORESTATION “Two things grow when we operate Scoutrees at The first trees were planted in the fall of 1946. Prior to Camp,” says John Galloway, “Trees and kids! The kids that, very few trees were located on the property, as all survive but fortunately all the trees don’t. I say for- most of it, even the valley, had been part of the farm tunately because if all the trees we have planted at operation. Early photographs show the lack of trees Nemo since 1947 survived we would be wall-to-wall across the property. Fleur-de-lis could be seen from a trees at camp!” number of vantage points.

Michael Daigle and Norman Manning planting a tree at Trees for Canada

Fleur-de-lis - late 1960’s John is proud of what tree planting has contributed to the development of camp but is much prouder of the The Pines, located beside Apple Day, and the refor- great feeling of accomplishment it has given thousands ested areas in the Back Forty and Training Field show of Scouts. Camp Nemo now has a very different ap- that early plantings were done in a straight line fashion. pearance as the result of the efforts of thousands of ea- Successive groups on Conservation Courses continued ger tree planters to "green" the camp. In 1967, 25,000 trees were planted. After planting trees at Valens and Dundas Val- ley Conservation Areas in 1974 and 1975, Trees for 5. EVENTS

Mount Nemo Scout Camp has been the home of hun- 1947. Ten leaders developed their winter camping dreds of very special events during its first 50 years. skills. On May 10, 1947, 100 Scouts and 20 Rovers Hopefully, every section's camp was an "event" in the and Leaders participated in the first Reforestation minds of its participants! Camp and planted 7,000 White Pine, Scotch Pine, Ash Maple and Elm. Over the years, Hamilton Wentworth has been divided into Divisions, Districts and Areas. Each has run vari- The following is a brief summary of some of the ous events through out the year at Camp Nemo. events which have taken place:

CHOPPEREE

The annual Beaver day event has been run since 1976. It was held at Camp Nemo in 1983, 1991, 1992, 1993 and 1994 when the 20th Anniversary of the Beaver program was celebrated. The participants formed the shape of a Beaver in Confederation Field, photo- graphed from an aircraft and the picture was published in the Hamilton Spectator. Hamilton Wentworth has also run its share of special events for youth and adults.

Participants on a Part One Course

One of the first events was the Daniel Boone Winter Weekend which took place the weekend of January 25,

DATE THEME CHIEF ATTENDANCE 1983 Hands Around the World

May 11, 1991 Cartoon Capers Gail Saunders

May 2, 1992 Beaver Olympics Gail Saunders 1054

May 8, 1993 Hands Around the World Joan Barty 988

May 7, 1994 Outer Space - The Way of the Future Joan Barty 1060 HARRY BRYANT CAMPFIRE COMPOSITE CUB CAMP

This memorial campfire was held on May 26, 1984 at This was held for at least one week every summer he late Harry Bryant request to commemorate his life from 1971 to 1978. The program offered many out- long dedication to Scouting. Conducted by Lorne door activities to Cubs from all across Hamilton Wen- Ellis, the evening program at Fleur-de lis Hill was at- tworth. tended by many of Harry's friends and those whose lives he had greatly influenced through Scouting.

C.J. PRECAMPS CUB FUN DAY

These weekend camps were required for the partici- First held on September 29, 1979, this now has been pants of National Jamborees, and were held in 1977, an annual gathering for Hamilton Wentworth Wolf 1981, 1985, 1989 and 1993. The program included Cubs. sessions on what to expect and how to survive a week with thousands of other Scouts.

CUB FUN DAY DATE THEME CHIEF ATTENDANCE

September 29, 1979 Fall Fair Brian Johnston

September 27, 1980 Fall Fair Judy Evans 714

September 26, 1981 Fall Fair Len Wade

1982 Zulu Days Helen Tune 573

October 1, 1983 Canadian Wild West Greg Anderson 716

October 20, 1984 Medieval Times Linda Langdon 938

October 5, 1985 The Way to the Stars Linda Langdon 983

October 4, 1986 Treasure Island Carmen & Mary Duarte

October 24, 1987 Roman Gladiator Trudy Perry

October 1, 1988 Journey Through Time Lori Carey 825

September 30, 1989 The Land of Make Believe Alex Kinnaird 885

October 20, 1990 Hooray for Hollywood Cindy Carter

October 5, 1991 Transportation: Land; Air and Sea Kathy Bagu

October 24, 1992 Space: The Nemo Frontier Tom Evanoff

October 23, 1993 Stories of the Past Linda Sculthorp

October 22, 1994 Return to Council Rock Haroldene Everett 899

October 21,1995 Daze of Olde Brian McKnight 900

October 26, 1996 Nemo's Birthday Celebrations Jim Bryce 900 ROVER MOOTS

An annual Rover Moot was held for many years, starting in 1946 at Sulphur Springs. The annual moots continued until the early 1960's.

SAP TAP

Gerry Johnston, with the help of Matt Conry, started KLONDIKE WEEKEND the Annual Sap Tap in 1969 using not only metal spikes but his own hand-made sumac spikes. Up- Klondike Camps were run by various Divisions for a wards to one hundred trees were tapped at a time. number of years. The great difficulty was that not all George Guest looked after the event during the early Divisions could book a truly "winter" weekend. Ham- 1970's, followed by Lorne Ellis from 1975 to 1990. ilton Wentworth began to run this Scout event in 1985 Lorne arranged for a new evaporating pan and new in order to ensure one weekend where, hopefully, equipment. For 16 years, Lorne and his 55th Hamil- there was enough snow for the events, and also to en- ton Venturers ran a 10 day Spring Break program for sure that enough expert winter campers could be avail- Cubs and in later years for Beavers. They taught the able to assist. For the first 3 years 3 separate pro- history operation of making of maple syrup and con- grams were run (Bronze, Silver and Gold), which pro- cluded each session with pancakes and maple syrup in vided the appropriate level of program for the experi- Confederation Lodge. They introduced hay wagon ence of each youth rides in 1980.

Lorne speaks with pride about his Venturers. “They planned and conducted the entire operation on their own. When Beavers started, they introduced a puppet show with a talking maple tree. It was hilariously ef- fective!”

The increased demands for winter and year-round camping finally closed down the great Nemo Sap Taps. The event ran until 1992, with a year off in 1990. SCOVENROLEA Hamilton Wentworth has become the place to learn rock climbing. With the equipment and expertise, we This event ran only once, on the weekend of Novem- have run successful Venturer Rock Climbing Week- ber 3-5, 1972. It provided separate programs for ends for many years. Scouts, Venturers and Rovers. There was also a training program in the Training Field for Leaders.

SNOWBALL ROVER MOOT Thousands of adults have received training here at sec- Originally run by the 37th Hamilton Rover Crew, with tion Part I Courses(and their predecessors), Group help from various Ranger Companies, this event gen- Committee, Service Team and Trainer Courses. Ham- erally ran on the 2nd weekend of February from 1972 ilton Wentworth pioneered the Combined Part I to 1994. Rovers and Rangers attended from all over Courses. Ontario, with visitors from the U.S.

VICTORIA DAY CAMPOREE

This annual event for Scouts and now Venturers, has TRAINING COURSES taken place since 1955. Programs have been exciting and the weather unpredictable (including rain outs). From the early years when the camp was called Mount We will never forget the great washout of 1960 which Nemo Training Camp, it's a place where many training came to be known as "Swamp Nemo". For many experiences have taken place. Numerous Scout Badge Scouts, this was their first international event as very Courses, including the annual B.P. Woodsman Course often American Scouts attended. The following is a have found their home at Camp Nemo. summary of some of these great camps: VICTORIA DAY CAMPOREE THEME CHIEF ATTENDANCE DATE May 20-23, 1955 International Jamborette

May 18-21, 1956 Martin Schmidt

May 17-20, 1957

May 16-19, 1958

May 15-18, 1959

May 20-23, 1960

May 19-22, 1961

May 18-21, 1962

May 17-20, 1963

May 15-18, 1964

May 21-24, 1965

May 20-23, 1966 Fit For Service Jack Warner

May 19-22, 1967 Centennial Pow Pow Jack Warner

May 17-20, 1968 Scouts 68 Del Reynolds

May 16-19, 1969 Doug French

May 15-18, 1970

May 21-24, 1971

May 19-22, 1972

May 18-21, 1973 800

May 17-20, 1974 John Harbour

May 16-19, 1975 Working Together Gord Peace 800

May 21-24, 1976 Adventures in Participation George Lethbridge

May 20-23, 1977 Harmony With Nature Laurie Smith 800

May 19-22, 1978 Preparing for the Future Alex Shepherd 838

May 18-21, 1979 Scouting on the Move Gord Peace

May 16-19, 1980 King Tut Don Knap

May 15-18, 1981 Mafeking Revisited Harry Bryant

May 21-24, 1982 Brownsea Remembered Ron Mollon

May 20-23, 1983 Preparing for Tomorrow Fred Miyata VICTORIA DAY CAMPOREE THEME CHIEF ATTENDANCE DATE May 18-21, 1984 Back to Basics Jim Carey 556

May 17-20, 1985 M*A*S*H* Glen Bond 500

May 16-19, 1986 Scouting Superstars Rick Elop 750

May 15-18, 1987 Adventure Canada Steve Patterson

May 20-23, 1988 Spy vs. Spy Mike Lethbridge 500

May 19-22, 1989 That's Entertainment Mike Lethbridge

May 18-21, 1990 Blazing Saddles Jeff Dunford

May 17-20, 1991 Rich Man/Poor Man Dave Morley

May 15-18, 1992 Medieval Times Dave Morley

May 21-24, 1993 Surf's Up Dan McMullen

May 20-23, 1994 Home Alone Don Spong

May 19-22, 1995 Chicago John Zimmerman

May 17-20, 1996 Time Travel John Zimmerman

Our membership’s attachment to Mount Nemo Scout Camp can be seen every October through the hard work of Apple Day. The concerted effort of our youth and adult members is a model for Scouts throughout the country. In 1996, we raised over $83,000 for our camp properties and water activities through the street campaign and Distinguished Donor program. A further $5,400 was rebated to Groups and Areas for their own use. We used 1000 bushels of apples, and en- dured some of the worst weather ever encountered.

The roots of our enthusiasm can be traced back to the purchase of the camp property in 1946 and beyond the first Apple Days. It goes back to the beginning of Scouting in Hamilton Wentworth and the need to pro- THE STORY OF APPLE DAY vide a camp experience for our youth at Camp Teton- kah, Sulphur Springs and eventually, Camp Nemo. Although this is not a Camp Nemo event, Apple Day is as much a part of the camp as any of the above ac- There is no accurate account of where the first Apple tivities. Without Apple Day, Camp Nemo simply Day took place in Canada. In the early 1930’s Ontario would not exist. and New Brunswick held their Apple Day in the spring. The original intent was to give an apple as thanks to members of the community In the mid-1950's the Auxiliary would pack and mail for their support throughout the year. Most councils about 300 "Special Apples" to supporters of Scouting. conduct some form of Apple Day in October. Not all By 1960, the "Boxed Apple Drive" had about 100 sup- of the provinces participate. porters. In 1996, 313 Distinguished Donors contributed $33,316.69. "Special Apples" were delivered to Our first Apple Day took place on November 4, 1933, them by representatives of 55 Groups. during the height of the Great Depression. It must have been a success, because it was repeated on June 9, 1934, and was run by the 4th Rover Crew. It was repeated in the spring of 1935, but it moved to the fall for good in 1936, when it appears that "Purchaser's Tags" were handed out for the first time. The Depres- sion continued to take its toll. In 1937, the groups did not receive a commission. Gross proceeds were $1,056 and costs were $160.

Proceeds from the "Street Campaign" continued to grow over the years:

1953 $10,000 1971 $20,000 1979 $30,000 1985 $40,000 1989 $50,000 Getting reading to hit the streets - 1950’s 1993 $70,000 Proceeds climbed slowly through the war years. In 1996 $74,389 1944, 525 bushels were sold, and for the first time, proceeds from Apple Day went to support what came Continued and improved fund raising has become a to be known as the camp fund. We showed our re- priority for Scouting in order for us to continue to pro- sourcefulness in 1945, when, due to a poor apple crop, vide fine outdoor programs. Because of Apple Day, pears were substituted. There were not many pears Hamilton Wentworth Scouts have always felt a great either and the shortage of fruit meant that proceeds sense of ownership where "their" Camp is concerned. were down. Net proceeds for Apple Day were just un- Based on our history, the future for the Apple Day and der $1,800 in 1946. That didn't stop us from paying Distinguished Donor Programs, and hence, Mount the grand sum of $5,200 for a new camp property on Nemo Scout Camp, is bright! Bronte Creek!

Throughout the 1950's, Apple Day was run by the Dis- trict Group Committeemen's Council with support from the Executive Board of Ladies Auxiliaries (now District Committee for Scouting Auxiliaries). In 1955, the Auxiliary put strings on 200,000 Apple Day tags. In 1963, a move of Apple Day to the spring was considered and rejected. 6. FACTORING THROUGH THE YEARS

There has been a Camp Factor for as long as there has Camp Factors view Mount Nemo Scout Camp as a been a Camp Nemo. Early factors stayed in the Head- “Home away from Home”. Their presence has given quarters Building. They were even paid! After the campers a wonderful feeling of assurance over the fire in 1952, the Factor's Lodge was built in 1953. years. By camp standards, Factor’s Lodge can provide Generally, a factor was on duty, daily, throughout the a setting for luxury living for couples or an entire fam- summer months, when the camp was busiest. With ily. the development of Winter Camping, and the decline in summer camps, the Factor present on weekends Countless Scouters have factored for decades. One of throughout the year. Factors are a part of a Service our Factors, Darryl Buckle, has created a book of car- Team responsible to the Property Committee. A man- toons during weekends on the job with is wife. The- ual was developed in 1988. Every Factor is required reas. Darryl’s collection “Factoring Sketches” resides to take a course and is given a copy of the manual. in the lodge and is a source of merriment for Factors, This manual is updated annually at the Factors' Meet- especially on those wet weekends. The following are ing in January when the schedule for the year is deter- but a sample mined.

7. THE WARDEN STORY

The need for a Warden at Mount Nemo Scout Camp was discussed on numerous occasions in the early history of the camp. It was generally felt that a warden was needed to save the time of the Executive Staff at camp. It was also felt that the mere presence of a full time resident would reduce the amount of vandalism which had begun to occur. The Warden would help to protect the substantial investment of buildings and equipment and would be able to ensure that the buildings were being properly maintained. Seasonal tasks such as grass cutting and snow plowing could also be the responsibility of the Warden

The “Barn” - Warden’s work shop and storage area

Camp warden’s at camp are as follows:

January 1, 1973 to Wendell Rodd September 1973

January 1 1974 to Lorne Packham December 1979

June 1980 to George & Christine Guest Warden Gerry Bluhm in Scout-Guide Parade - May August 1985 (“Camp Dog” - Sheba) 1997

Eventually, it was felt that it was essential to hire a March 1 1987 to Gerry & Bev Bluhm part-time Warden, and to leave some of the mainte- Present (“Camp Dog” - Mandy) nance tasks to the Property Committee volunteers

Anniversary Lodge Construction - Camp Warden Gerry Bluhm the back hoe operator- 1997 8. THE PEOPLE

Many people have worked very hard over the years to especially by the members of the Camp Committee. shape Mount Nemo Scout Camp. The first and fore- most was Gordon Williams. While it is impossible to "We never minded it though, because working along- list everybody who has influenced Camp Nemo, many side Gord Williams was a rewarding experience. He of the others follow Gordon's story in alphabetical or- was very knowledgeable about camping, he under- der. stood people, was an interesting philosopher and our greatest camp promoter. Gord had us ripping out fences and clearing the upper field to form larger camping areas, laying out trails, tearing down the GORDON WILLIAMS barn, planting trees, building shelters, constructing living quarters and K.Y.B.O’s and we were always paint- Born in Bristol, England in 1903, Gordon became a ing something". Scout with the 61st Bristol Scout Group in April, 1915 at the age of 12. A King's Scout, he attended the First Len remembers spending one entire summer painting World Jamboree at Olympia and the Second World the inside of the Factors Lodge and the inside of all Jamboree at Copenhagen in 1924. He was later a the K.Y.B.O.’s--YELLOW! Rover and acted from time to time as Cub, Scout and Rover Leader. He came to Canada in 1929 and imme- diately was in a leadership role in Montreal. While living in Trail, B.C. from 1930 to 1941, he was involved in a Scout Group and was active in the District. In 1941 he moved to Ottawa, where on November 30, 1945 he was appointed as a Field Commissioner for Canadian Scout Headquarters. He became the Execu- tive Commissioner for Hamilton on February 1, 1946.

Gordon was instrumental in the purchase of the Camp Nemo property and encouraged and supported its early development. During his tenure, Scout House was built through public subscription and the Ragged Falls Canoe Base developed. Gordon was enthusiastic about the outdoors, especially canoeing. Gordon had what our camp needed--boundless energy, outstanding camping skills, a good sense of humour, a charming Gordon Williams - date unknown persuasiveness and an uncanny sense of what a Scout camp should be. There's no question in the mind of Glen Tydd, another member of the first Camp Com- his family that Camp Nemo became his second home. mittee, remembers painting Ram Inn with Gord on a For 20 years Gord Williams was the chief architect single weekend. "You never slept inside when you and driving force behind the development of our Dis- camped with Gord", Glen states. "The entire work trict camp. party would sleep out under the stars!"

There are many stories about Gordon's ability to re- Many tell how they would be so tired on Saturday cruit and encourage work parties. He had a never- night after working on some task all day that they ending list of camp projects to be undertaken. How would swear they would not go back to camp for would Gordon organize a work party? It could start months. Gord would then cook up a grand dinner, fol- with a simple telephone call on a Monday, and by the lowed by a campfire, with one of his famous ghost weekend the crew, often Rovers, each with the neces- stories, and he'd tell them how important they were to sary tools and supplies would assemble at camp. It camp and as partners in its development they had could take a few hours, or a summer of weekends. ownership rights and responsibilities. Sure enough, Len Brittain recalls that the early years required a they would all be back the next weekend. For Gord, great deal of hard work, Scouting had to be fun and no matter how gruelling the weekend assignment or how grim the weather he would find a way to introduce some fun- Rolph Barnes who installed 300 gallon water tanks filled diversion at just the right moment to lift the spir- throughout the camp. The tanks had been taken from its of all. Work crews were organized and in opera- ships being scrapped at Stelco. tion almost before the ink was dry on the camp deed in Claire Maitland, who later became Gord's son-in-law, 1946. Since Gord steadfastly refused to ask others do recalls the 1951 Christmas holiday Silver Arrowhead something he himself would not do, he was often a Training Course at Mount Nemo. He was one of 30 member of the project team. Scouts who, in Patrols, set up their campsites in a sub- Hugh Halley and a bricklayer friend of his agreed to zero blizzard on a Thursday. At the end of the course build a large stone fireplace in Headquarters Building. three days later they dismantled camp in mud and They spent weekends throughout the fall and early pouring rain. winter of 1952 at the job. Most of the field stones Gordon always encouraged Scouts to feel at home at came from the foundation of the old barn. "It was a Camp Nemo. The spirit of a "Nemo home away from tough slugging assignment, carrying field stones and home" is very much alive today, 50 years later. In the mixing mortar week after week but we finally com- early days it was this spirit and shortage of camp pleted it and enjoyed the first fire in the fireplace on buildings that resulted in camp equipment being stored December 24th," recalls Hugh. It was also to be the throughout countless Hamilton basements and ga- last fire, because the building was totally destroyed by rages. In spite of this, Gordon insisted on keeping ac- fire on December 28! The only thing left standing was curate inventory records, and nothing was wasted at the fireplace, which gave Hugh and his friend no small camp. Encouraged by Gord Williams' leadership, amount of comfort. "wise in the use of our resources" has always been a Gord believed that if at all possible, a Scout Camp part of our Camp Nemo credo. Much of our success at should have a swimming hole and he turned to the Nemo during our first 50 years can be credited to a Bronte Creek. Little did he understand the power that quiet, unselfish and totally dedicated Scout, Gordon ice jams and spring floods possessed. Damming the Williams. Bronte Creek became one of his pet projects according "We had a real fun time," said Claire, "and we didn't to Peter Walker who was one of the first Scoutmasters leave Nemo until all the camp equipment was stored to take his Troop to Nemo. "Gord tried everything. away in the Training Lodge." Rocks, sandbags, you name it, Gord tried it. Yet every spring was the same, everything washed away with Gordon Williams retired from Scouting in 1968. He hardly a trace." subsequently was awarded the Silver Acorn. He returned to the camp he created for the opening of the Hugh Halley remembers one summer storm washing lodge named after him on December 6, 1970. Gordon out the dam! But Gord was undaunted. He called passed away October 8, 1986 Rolph Barnes, who was in the gravel business. Large stone blocks were placed across the stream and when finished off with rocks and stones, the swimming area was a record 4 feet in depth. It provided a summer of the best swimming ever. In the spring Gord and Tom Rogerson stood surveying the swimming hole. "Where's my dam?", asked Gord.

"Probably at the bottom of Lake Ontario", replied Tom.

It was shortly after this that rafting down the Bronte on camp-made contraptions became our major water sport!

Another project that never met with success was the search for a fresh water well. Regardless of digging Gordon Williams Lodge - 1987 locations, every work party came up with the same result--sulphur water. Gord's solution was to call upon BRIAN BOTTRILL WILF DARBY A member of the Executive Board during the 1960's A member of the Executive Board during the 1960's and 1970's, Brian was active in camp work parties and and 1970's, Wilf was active in camp work parties and various committees which dealt with camp issues. various committees which dealt with camp issues. REDVERS D. F. “RED” BOURNE JOHN HENCHER Red’s contribution to Scouting was through program John’s contribution to Nemo was indirect, through his for almost half a century beginning in 1929. A self influence upon Rovers in the District. John was a taught naturalist, he became known locally as Mr. Na- Cub, Scout and Rover leader in Hamilton for more ture, and eventually as Mr. Old-time Scouter! He was than 20 years beginning in 1947. He became known one of the people with his name on the original camp as “Mr. Rovering” in Ontario. As A.D.C. Rovers in property deed and acted as one of the Trustees until the 1950's, he encouraged a very strong and active the property was transferred to the Provincial Corpora- Rover presence at Camp. These Rovers worked on tion, created for holding all Scouting lands in Ontario. Gordon Williams work parties and established a He also served a term as District Commissioner. Red model that is followed to this day. The Rovers named was our camp naturalist, and through his instruction a den after John, which was destroyed by fire in 1964. locally, and on Part II Courses, thousands of Ontario A replacement building was finished in September Scouters became excited junior naturalists. He opened 1965, complete with John’s name. John was also ac- their lives to an outdoor world they had never dreamed tive in training both locally and provincially. His use of before. Red’s wife was also an outstanding natural- and encouragement of Nemo as a training centre es- ist and when instructing on training courses, they tablished a pattern which also continues to this day. would often split groups into 2 sections to give mem- Hencher Den stands as a proud reminder of John’s bers more personal attention. Everybody enjoyed contribution to Nemo and Scouting. Red’s nature columns in the Scouter’s Dispatch. He GERRY JOHNSTON was also a lay preacher and enjoyed speaking at indoor and outdoor services alike. Red was a gifted When Doug Johnston joined Cubs in 1952, his parents story teller and a much sought after speaker at Scout Marg and Gerry joined also. During the next 20 years, events across the Province. He was also a talented Cub Leader Marg was actively involved with the rope specialist and while speaking would delight audi- Scout Swim Club, served as Division Cubmaster for ences with his rapid hand constructed rope monkeys the old Mohawk Division and became a secretary at climbing rope trees or rope webs complete with rope Scout House. Gerry, a Scout leader, turned to Mount spiders. Red was real gentleman, a dedicated natural- Nemo and quietly became somewhat of a legend there. ist, a born instructor and a great promoter of Camp He became Chairman of the Camp Committee, and as Nemo and outdoor Scouting. a friend of Gord Williams, shared Gord’s vision of Camp. Gerry was a self taught naturalist and as such introduced hundreds of Scouts to the mysteries of birds and trees on camp nature walks. He showed them how easy it was to be good conservationists and also shared with them his great love of ropes and knots. He started the Sap Tap program. Gerry was a great “maintainer” of camp. He was forever “puttering” on one repair job or another. He person- ally built the old cedar rail fence around Confederation Lodge. He had a delightful way of encouraging others to take on Camp projects. People liked to work for Gerry because, “he was such a great guy”.

R.D.F. Bourne - date unknown DAVE PEAT TOM ROGERSON

A member of the Executive Board during the 1960's Tom Rogerson came to us from Scotland with a strong and 1970's, Dave was active in camp work parties and Scouting background. he and his wife settled locally various committees which dealt with camp issues. when Tom was hired by Dofasco as a machinist. He Dave’s company built the water tank, now the only was Assistant Scoutmaster to Bob Gibson at the 40th source of water at camp. He also designed and engi- Hamilton (St. Enoch’ss) from 1938 to 1941 and Scout- neered the construction of Confederation Lodge. master at the 27th Hamilton (Adelaide Hoodless) from 1941 to 1949. By then he was very much involved with District and Provincial Training at Blue Springs. Locally, he became Assistant District Commissioner RON PINE Training and was a most active member of the Nemo Ron came to Hamilton Wentworth in 1974 with 20 Camp Committee. He was certainly one of its early years of Scouting experience in Oshawa. He quickly architects. His Medal of Merit was well deserved. became A.D.C. Venturers and served a term as Dis- Tom died in 1994. trict Commissioner. Shortly thereafter, he took over the Camp Development Committee which had been given the job of implementing the Planistics Camp HARRY SUMNER Plan. Eventually this committee merged with the Camp Committee and Ron was in charge. He was a A Division Commissioner in the 1960's, Harry served breath of fresh air which gave a fresh start at Camp on many work parties at Camp. It was Harry who Nemo. In no time at all, he was drawing people in constructed 2 gorgeous cedar tables and matching from all sides and getting them involved in a much benches for the Panabodes from scraps left over dur- needed camp resurgence. He’s been described as a ing their roof construction. whirling dervish, for he had no fewer than 15 projects on the go at all times! The basements were finished in the Panabodes, cedar siding was added to buildings, B. P. Lodge was gutted and completely refurbished, the JIMMY WRIGHT Stockade was rebuilt after the fire, an addition was James Wright spent more than 30 years in Scouting in added to the barn, the water system was upgraded and Hamilton. Many remember him as the person in the pump moved from the Factor’s Lodge. These charge of the Eaton’s Scout Shop. He served as Dis- were but a few of his projects. The most important trict Commissioner from 1957 to 1960. Jimmy was thing Ron did for Nemo was to promote the concept of the epitome of a Scout, always band-box fresh in his individual ownership of the Camp by every Scout in uniform, the model of B.P. He lent a dignity to cere- the Council. Like never before he encouraged Scouts monies at Camp that truly stirred the heart. He was to buy into the attitude “This is ours!” Because of just the right person to be the Scoutmaster of the Ham- Ron, that ownership attitude is today our greatest ilton Troops to the 1953 Coronation and to the 1st Ca- strength and our guaranty for the future. nadian Jamboree.

Ron Pine - 1980 9. VOICES OF NEMO PAST AND PRESENT

EARLY RAM INN There was a wood stove for heating and cooking. The walls were still covered with chicken feathers and Peter Walker advises that it was early March, 1947 other remnants of chicken, but these rustic conditions when he and the 42nd Normanhurst Scout Troop with didn't seem to bother the Scouts or their leaders and Bob Gretton as Scoutmaster, arrived at Camp Nemo they had an enjoyable weekend. There wasn't too for the weekend. They attempted to drive in the much left of the near by farm house which had earlier muddy lane (no gravel then) but got stuck about half burned to the ground. The field stone lower level was way and had to lug all their equipment and supplies very much intact, but the wooden beams and what was through the mud to Ram Inn. What a surprise when left of the superstructure were all caved in. they opened the door to find 4 metal bunk beds with straw ticks and a rat trap under each. DANIEL BOONE WEEKEND a Scout Camp. I think we camped in Ancaster area before." The lack of buildings was no deterrent to Gordon Wil- liams to get camp courses off to an early start. Proba- "Gord gave me a rough map. A friend, fellow Scout bly the first was the January 1947 Daniel Boone week- Jim Hardman, and I found our way by bike to the end which qualified Scouts for the Winter Camping "farm" that became Mount Nemo Camp. A neighbour Badge. These became annual affairs at Nemo and Len farmer pointed out the camp site but could not under- Brittain remembers them well. stand why anyone would want such a rundown farm."

"We slept in the open and often woke up covered in "Jim and I first noticed a chicken coup (messy, ugh!). snow. If it was really cold there would be an icy body It later became Ram Inn. I went on to many weekends contour under your ground sheet. Fleecy bedrolls winter and summer camping at Mount Nemo as a were unknown in those days and you were always youth." scrounging around for an extra grey army blanket when the temperature took a nose dive. I remember "Time or space will not allow a full listing, but here Gord Williams waking up one morning with a frozen are some highlights: finger. He took quite a kidding because he was the author of the Scouts Canada handbook, "Winter • the camp had an artesian well Camping and Survival Skills". Among other things, • the only song I can sing is "By the blazing..." he loved showing Scouts how to build snow shelters and to bake with the reflector oven." • we slept on the ground until ugly buildings came • fun to let the air out of Scouter's air mattress GOURMET COOKS OF TODAY..."EAT YOUR • Lowville was a fantastic store HEART OUT" • parents and Group Committee were great driv- Twenty-five Scout Leaders gathered for a weekend ers Scoutmaster's Preliminary Training Course in Septem- • I have many great Mount Nemo memories ber 1947, the first ever at Mount Nemo. They set their tents up around the only building, Ram Inn, which • climbing the gap up atop Nemo" served as the Headquarters/Cookhouse. "As I eventually evolved into a Scout Leader, I continued weekends at Nemo. I often remember how the Long time east Hamilton Cub Leader, Bill Corrance, May 24th Camporees at Nemo were so great." was the cook. After a breakfast of bacon and eggs on Saturday and Sunday he saved the bacon drippings. "I eventually met a cute Cub Leader (Jackie) at Mount On Sunday morning Bill picked fresh blueberries from Nemo. You may not be aware but when your Cubs, the patches at Camp and using the drippings served up Scouts and nosy assistants are sound asleep, the moon fresh blueberry pie for dessert at lunch. What a sur- whether full or new has the most profound romantic prise! effect, only available at Camp Mount Nemo."

The members of that course still talk about those great "After I married Jackie, we continued Cub and Scout pies, the highlight of the weekend! camping at Nemo. We also were Camp Factors many summers." "Jackie and I eventually left Hamilton and

Scouting for other adventures. We never forgot Nemo NOTES ABOUT CAMP NEMO FROM and I am sure the moon effect helped us enjoy 43 KEN GOOD years of

"My first real job was as part time janitor for the then Scout H.Q. The H.Q. was then on James St. N. It was there that I met a great friend, Gordon Williams."

"I did not realize that it has been over 50 years since Gord told me about a farm that had been purchased for BRIDGING THE MIGHTY NEMO CREEK Hospital. It was a typical case of, "Do as I say and not as I do!" It was a proud Troop that finally lined up to be honoured by the District for having constructed Camp Nemo's longest bridge.

How long did it last? As Nemo bridges go, it lasted a long time, over 10 years. The eroding creek banks finally claimed this magnificent span which through its lifetime echoed to the boots of thousands of happy campers.

During his years in Scouting, Len Brittain served as a Scout, Scoutmaster, District Commissioner and member of the Camp Committee for Camp Nemo

Group of Scouts bridging the Nemo Creek - 1971

It was to be the Good Turn of all Good Turns...to per- manently bridge the Nemo Creek, to conquer the raging spring floodwaters that turned the summer creek trickle into a solid wall of water which tore trees out by the roots, carved out tons of embankment in minutes and swallowed bridges whole! The year was 1952 and every attempt to span the creek to date had met with failure. Len Brittain was about to change all that. Len had a vision which he shared with his Scouts. As a result, he and 15 boys of the 56th Hamil- CAMP NEMO: FOR SO MANY A FAMILY ton Troop, which he founded in 1950 at Hess Street EXPERIENCE School, decided to make the building of a permanent bridge across the creek their summer project. The Bob Tice, wife Bev, 5 month old Suzanne, 2 year old necessary trees for the project would be cut from the Paul and 3 year old Peter were on a 2 week forested side of Campfire Hill and four weekends were "Factoring" stint at camp in August, 1953, living in set aside for the task. Ram Inn. They enjoyed leisurely hours watching the early development of camp, the construction of the Len first gave each Scout careful instruction in the Factor's Lodge, the Stockade and B.P. Lodge. The proper use and care of an axe. Then they selected 2 Tice’s used coal oil lamps, cooked on a Coleman stove stately trees which they felled and trimmed to form the and a wood stove provided heat. The kids loved main supports for the deck of the bridge. Each sup- watching the antics of the field mice. Bob said, "The port was 2 1/2 feet in diameter and 40 feet in length. place was lousy with them! It's a wonder they didn't The first weekend the logs were put in place, 5 feet walk off with Ram Inn." Bev disliked them with a apart above the creek. Len recalls that it took plenty passion and lost a fair amount of sleep because of of ropes and all the Scout power in camp to muscle them. them 300 yards across the valley and into position. The next 2 weekends were spent laying the bridge The kids liked to help their dad with his camp chores. decking consisting of 2" x 8" planks. The bridge was When going off to clean the K.Y.B.O.'s, Bob headed completed on the final weekend when the fresh cut out with the cleaning tools, Peter followed with the T. pole railings were secured in place. It was a time for P. and Paul brought up the rear with a bucket of lime. celebration. To the campers, they looked like a patrol on safari.

Unfortunately the celebration had to wait because of a "Where else could a family have such fun and at the last minute accident. Len himself was the casualty. same time give their kids such good training?" asks On the last day his axe slipped and sliced into his leg. Bob. Always the leader, that Bob Tice! He spent the next 10 days in the Hamilton General Today Glen Tydd and Peter Walker are two very active retiree living in East Hamilton. Together they amassed 68 years of Scouting service.

TORNADOES AND HURRICANES

Can a tornado and a hurricane strike the same place on the same day? It did, on Friday, October 15, 1954 at Mount Nemo Scout Camp! The name of the tornado was Jim Carey and the name of the hurricane was Ha- zel.

Beverley Billings and her Cub Pack had just set their All Inn - date unknown tents up around Apple Day Lodge and were settling in for the weekend. Bev set out across the field to the ALL IN ALL INN ALL IN Factors Lodge decked out in her rain gear because it Does this title make sense to you? It certainly does for had started to rain rather heavily. Jim Carey saw her Peter Walker, Glen Tydd and 8 or 10 other former and mistook her for his buddy Jim Quinn who was Hamilton Scout Leaders. It all happened at our Mount also at camp that weekend. Carey decided to surprise Nemo Camp one September weekend in 1954. In just Quinn. He raced across the field and threw a flying 2 days they built an Adirondak style log structure in tackle at Bev, flattening her in the mud and grass in the valley using only the natural materials available at one second flat! camp. They accomplished this feat by dividing the Hurricane Hazel, the worst inland storm in our history group into teams of choppers, haulers and builders. dumped 2" of water on the countryside in less than 12 The axe wielding choppers felled and trimmed trees hours. It blew over tents, trees, trucks and homes. It from as far away as the Bird Sanctuary. The haulers took us years to recover from the devastation of this then laboriously handled them through the woods, disaster. down the steep slope to the valley floor below. There The final outcome of tornado Jim Carey tackle took a the builders cut and notched the logs and framed the few years but when the story was completed, Cub building. Glen recalls being a member of the building Leader Beverley Billings married and now is know to crew along with Tom Rogerson, Harry West and Jim everyone as - Bev Carey Wright.

When the shelter was completed, the weary, but happy participants all piled inside. Someone called AH, THE MAGIC OF MIST-O-VAN! out, "Are we all in," to which another replied, "I don't know about you but I'm sure all in!"

A voice from the back then shouted out, "Maybe we should call the place "All Inn". They did and the name stuck. So there they were...all in All Inn all in!

Glen Tydd and Harry West returned to install a complete hardwood floor on Thanksgiving Weekend. Their reward was a canned whole-chicken dinner for two served in the luxury of the Cub Lodge. All Inn was then officially ready for the winter camping season.

By 1990 All Inn was itself "all in" and was torn down and used for firewood. This was a fitting end to this Transporting a new K.Y.B.O in front of the Baseball once proud monument of Nemo Scouting. backstop - now the sight of Confederation Lodge - Date - early 60’s Bill Tallman, assistant to Gord Williams from 1956 to Bill Tallman also remembers escorting Gord on an- 1965, fondly remembers accompanying Gord on his other tour each year. "Gord was very P.R. conscious. Monday rounds of the camp. Off they would go During the year the neighbours had occasion to be equipped with tools for minor repairs, cleaning sup- concerned about our campfires, or unhappy with plies, plenty of rolls of toilet paper, lunch, a notebook Scouts taking shortcuts across their fields when hik- and always a goodly supply of Mist-O-Van for the K. ing, or upset when the Scouts delighted in chasing Y.B.O.’s. There was a certain air about Gord when he their cows when they would wander into camp, so returned to Scout House after his K.Y.B.O. tours. If each Christmas we would make the rounds of the sur- there was enough snow in winter, they would ski. rounding farms to distribute chocolates and cigarettes Gord loved to ski. "It was a working tour," Bill re- to the families in appreciation for their understanding calls. "Mother Nature and weekends of active camp- and support. On Gord's part it was a very sincere ges- ers guaranteed a supply of damage needing repairs. ture and one that was appreciated by all of the Camp Damages needing a specialist or a work party would Nemo neighbours.” be recorded and the telephone calls would start that very same day. Gord felt that if you had worked on a MORNING EXERCISE project earlier and it now needed repairing, you would naturally feel honour-bound to offer your services." Kevin O'Halloran recalls being with his brother Terry on a Scout Foresters Badge Course. They camped in Gord's daughter Elsa remembers tagging along behind what was left of the old apple orchard in front of B.P. her father at camp when she was very young. She Lodge. The course was put on by Bill Tallman and would help him sweep out cabins, carry supplies and Harlie Duncan, who had a wonderful sense of humour. of course spray the K.Y.B.O.’s with Mist-O-Van! Terry and Kevin were told that the program would start early Saturday morning around 8 a.m., but at 6:30 a.m., they were roused from their sleep by the voice of Harlie Duncan extolling the virtue of early morning exercise of one, two - one, two. Rubbing the sleep from their eyes and dreading the thought of push-ups in the morning as the sun was just appearing over the horizon, they tumbled from their tents to see Harlie, a man of large stature, standing in a stride jump position, with his two hands level with his shoulders, shouting one, two - one, two, as only the index fingers of each hand moved up and down. Needless to say, the joke was on them! They needed no urging to jump back into their warm sleeping bags for an extra hour of blissful sleep.

As Kevin wrote in June, 1996, "I have just turned 48 years old and that memory of 36 years ago is just as Confederation Lodge K.Y.B.O - wheelchair accessible fresh in my mind as if it were yesterday. Scouter Har- toilet , 2 urinals and one regular toilet - 1995 lie, wherever you are, thank you for showing me that a sense of humour is what every Scouter should have." In mapping out the camp, Gord discovered 6 major patches of poison ivy. Hugh Halley recalls only too well the bad case of poison ivy he had as a result of working with the group constructing the Colonel DuBurgh Memorial Chapel. Harlie Duncan agreed to be a one-man poison ivy eradicator. On spring and summer weekends for years, Harlie, with a spray can mounted on his back, could be seen attacking the ivy. They were a great team: Harlie with his poison ivy spray and Gord with his Mist-O-Van! MOUNT NEMO HOSTS THE STOMACH FLU great night's sleep. Peter thought that they must have been wearing ear plugs, but he was happy, his "night On a Friday evening early in December 1994 the 19th from Hell" was over. Everybody wondered why the Cub Pack moved into Panabode "A" for a 20 hour floor was so clean! David ate a big breakfast, but camp: 2 adults, Akela Peter Gauthier and Chil, a Jun- Mike turned green at the smell of the sausages. His ior Leader, Raksha and a dozen boisterous Cubs. Af- parents were called and he was taken home to bed be- ter unpacking, they headed out for a 7:30 p.m. ramble fore 9 a.m. around camp, an exercise designed to burn off an obvious overabundance of energy. Cub David asked if The rest of the day was great. The Cubs completed he could stay in the cabin and sleep instead but was most of the requirements for their star and Chil and convinced that the fresh air would probably perk him Raksha covered beautifully for a very tired and weary up. When they returned, mug-up was ready: hot Akela. It is not surprising to note that during the next chocolate, hot cider and cookies. Everyone pitched week all the other Cubs who went to camp came down into the food, except David who announced that he with the flu. It left Peter shuddering at the thought of wasn't hungry. Akela Peter later said that he should what he would have done at Nemo if they had all have seen this as a warning since he had never known taken ill on that fateful Friday night! a Cub to refuse mug-up before.

Finally the excited Cubs settled down and everybody drifted off to sleep. Around 2 a.m. Peter was awak- CAMP NEMO CAPTURED IN BLACK AND ened by his son Nick who told him that he had just es- WHITE AND IN COLOUR corted David to the K.Y.B.O. where David had thrown up. David said that he was now feeling better and after Hundreds of thousands of snapshots have been taken a drink of water was ready to return to his lower bunk at camp. They're filled with happy faces and Scouts in to sleep. Peter placed an empty bucket beside him just every attire imaginable. They're filled with laughter, in case and headed out to check the K.Y.B.O. It was a the determination that challenge demands, the concen- disaster. David had missed the target completely. tration of a Scouts Own, the pride of accomplishment Armed with a flashlight, a pail of water, soap and a and the wondrous joy of fellowship. They show mop Peter spent the next half hour cleaning up. Scouts in costumes that would rival the Stratford Theatre, Cubs struggling to erect a tent in a wind He returned to the cabin and was just dozing off when storm, Venturers cooking in the rain over a smokey he heard the sound of a Cub bringing up, this time all fire, a moonlit campfire ceremony, a formal flag rais- over the floor. He grabbed his flashlight and headed ing, Rovers planting trees, a work party re-roofing Ap- for David who was quietly pointing to the top bunk ple Day, the playing fields covered in boisterous activ- beside him. A very pale faced Mike apologized, said ity, proud group shots taken in front of campsites that he was feeling better and that he didn't think he would run from immaculate to total disarray, solemn mo- be sick again. It was back to the pail and mop for Pe- ments and happy moments. The history of Camp ter. He was just about to sleep the second time when Nemo is written in the faces captured by thousands of Mike let fly again, missing the pail, of course! Again, cameras over the years. he announced that his flu was over because he was feeling much, much better. Another clean up job for Peter. Peter barely made it back to bed when Mike was sick a third time. Peter now discovered that he had used up all their water and, cursing the flu, headed off to the camp water tap.

It was 6 a.m. before the cabin was finally cleaned up. By then Peter knew that it was useless to try and sleep so instead set about making breakfast, starting with a huge pot of steaming, hot coffee. By 7 a.m., the juice, oatmeal, pancakes and sausage were all ready. The coffee aroma woke Chil and Raksha who had had a 58th Hamilton Cubs - Fall Camp 1986 MEALTIME GRACE... to remind us of the contribution Camp Nemo has ANOTHER NEMO TRADITION made to our Scouting Tradition.

It's impossible to measure the impact that a Nemo Scouts Own, an Investiture Ceremony or mealtime grace has had on us, but they seem as close to the heart of Scouting as breath is to breathing.

When those assembled for a meal rise, clasp hands in a circle about the table and sing grace, it strengthens bonds of friendship and serves to remind us of our need to give thanks It is the same whether in a crowded lodge or in a small group under the pines or whether , in the past singing, "Be Present at Our Table Lord", or today, the more popular, "Johnny Apple- seed".

BE PRESENT AT OUR TABLE LORD MEMORABLE EVENINGS ON CAMPFIRE Be present at our table, Lord, HILL

Be here and everywhere adored, Campfires have always played an important role in the Scouting life of Nemo. A quietness falls over every- These mercies bless, and grant that we, one as they assemble around the campfire. Sparks reach for the stars or clouds and there is an expectancy May feast in paradise with Thee. in the air. No electric light bulb under red crepe paper JOHNNY APPLESEED and a few logs, this is the real thing. The leader approaches the fire with an upraised arm to declare the Oh the Lord is good to me, campfire open with the words, "Who have smelt wood-smoke at twilight" (Rudyard Kipling), or one of And so I thank the Lord, a thousand other invocations.

For giving me, the things I need, There is a magic about the skits, a mystery about the stories, especially the ghost stories, and a joyous fel- The sun, and the rain, and the apple seed, lowship accompanies the songs. To the Scouts of any one decade there seems to be a timelessness to their The Lord is good to me. skits, stories and songs but in truth they are constantly NEMO HAS BEEN WELL CRESTED changing to reflect the interests and values of the day. Many British based song favourites of the 1940's like If only the unique crests issued at the countless events "Song of the Wood" and "A Capital Ship" have disap- held at Nemo could speak, what a story they would peared probably because of the global nature of Scout- tell. Our camp history is reflected in these beautiful ing today. We continue to sing many of the spirituals memento’s. Rover Moots, Training Courses, Jambo- popular in the early Nemo days because they are still rees, Division and Area Camps, Beaver Chopperees, very much a part of our North American culture. Glen Cub Fun Days, Klondike Days, Daniel Boone and Tydd remembers compiling a songbook of spirituals Victoria Day Weekends have been captured in their with the help of Reverend John Holland of Stewart distinct crests. Many adorn campfire blankets, others Memorial Church around 1951. The book sold to are in diaries and albums, some are in valuable crest Troops for 2 copies for a nickel. It contained such collections but most have been squirreled away with spirituals as "All Night, All Day", "I Grieve My other lifetime treasures. They represent accomplish- Lord", "Kum Bah Yah", "Do Lord", and "Go Tell it ment in our lives and serve on the Mountain". Since then, we've added others, the circle. Their chants and dances were the highlight like "Amazing Grace" and "When the Saints Go of the weekend. Gord had arranged for them to visit Marching In". camp from their homes at the Six Nations Reserve at Brantford. A grand pow-pow at the end of the camp- Skits have always been popular at campfires. During fire gave everybody a chance to get acquainted the early Nemo years, the 40th Rover Crew wrote and produced a number of favourites. One in particular made an obvious point. It went something like this: TWINS AT NEMO Scene 1: At the Job Site: Louis comes on stage in baggy clothes carrying a pick and shovel. He is During its 50 year history, Nemo has seen its fair seen digging 12 hours per day, Monday to Friday for share of twins. It has been a very important place for the Cecil Cecciloni Cesspool Digging Company. Each the Duarte identical twins who were Beaver leaders st day he becomes more weary and stooped. with the 81 Hamilton in the early 1980’s. They are now Mary Elop and Carmen Galloway having married Scene 2: Louis Arrives Home Friday Evening: Louis Scouters Rick and John respectively. Nemo has stumbles through the front door exhausted only to be grown in importance to them because of the increased met by his enthusiastic and voluptuous wife. She an- use of camp for Beavering. Carmen, having served as nounces her great plans of the evening. Louis re- A.R.C. Training, says that first time leader training sponds with a deep and long groan. weekends, if held at camp, are the greatest because the participants become closer sooner and more easily Scene 3: Saturday Morning at Camp Nemo Front than anywhere else. She says the Beavers love the Gate: Louis and his friends, all in full Rover uniform freedom of the outdoors and, in spite of the weather, and carrying their backpacks approach the Scout never stop wanting to run and explore. Luckily for the Camp loudly announcing their plans for the weekend leaders, the Beavers tire easily! of good food, games, but mainly - REST! PLENTY OF GORGEOUS REST! Mary, who has served as A.R.C. Beavers, will never forget the first campfire at Nemo while on her Part I... They are welcomed to camp by an energetic Gord impressive!...majestic! Mary tells of the happy excite- Williams. who tells them of all the fun they are going ment that surrounds Beavers on a fall hike at camp, at to have working alongside him on a little 2-day project their winter Freezeree, planting trees for Scoutrees, at Erosion Hill. He tells them he has everything they'll experiencing their first sleep over or just jumping in need right there with him. He turns and grabs some- puddles or climbing trees. They don’t seem to mind thing and hands to Louis - you guessed it - a pick and the dirt or damp, they love a place where they can just shovel! be themselves in the wide open spaces. There is no The skit was a real crowd pleaser! better place than Nemo. Gord Williams campfire stories were outstanding and often quite dramatic. Glen Tydd remembers one in particular. It was told at the Saturday night campfire at a long weekend camp, probably in 1952. Before- hand, Gordon had hidden a Rover in a tree by the campfire. The Rover had a bow and arrow with a hefty hunk of magnesium attached to the head of the arrow. At story time, Gord told the assembled Scouts that a fire god lived on the top of Mount Nemo. He had them all look across the countryside and fix their gaze on Mount Nemo. At a special moment in the story, the Rover fired the arrow into the fire, the flames leaped over 8 feet into the air and at that particular moment, the chant of Native Canadians coming up Campfire Hill struck the air. The wide-eyed as- sembly sat in amazement as 8 Native Canadians in full costume, including head dress, entered THE REUNION...JUNE 1, 1997 SCREECHING PUPPIES ON CROWS NEST Ron Mollon (Nemo: 1965 - 1996) Despite overcast weather, over 300 past and present Scouts and Scouters attended the Camp Nemo Reun- One Friday evening in the spring of 1974 the members ion on June 1, 1997. The following stories were told of the 5th Hamilton Troop set their half dozen tents up by some of those present. on Crow’s Nest just back of Gordon Williams Lodge. Leaders Ron Mollon and Bill Nutley were just dozing One summery day in the late 1950’s Jean and George off when the third leader Jim Jenkins called out, “How Lethbridge carried their infant son Mike on a tour of are we to sleep when all we can hear is the sound of Camp Nemo. Mike liked what he saw and has been those screeching puppies?” Since no one else heard there ever since. As he grew he delighted in tagging the cries of puppies, Jim was told to keep quiet and go along beside Gerry Johnson (Property Committee to sleep. Every time Jim settled down, the whining Chair) as he conducted his nature hikes or worked on puppies started up again. “But I hear puppies!”, he one of his many construction projects. Because of his would say. “Shut up and go to sleep!!”, was the keen interest in the camp and his natural skills, Mike unanimous reply. This continued throughout the is today the Property Committee Chair and is as com- night. By morning the feeling was that Jim was fortable on a back hoe or front end loader as anybody ‘loco”. at Nemo. Mike’s big project in 1997 was the construction of our new Anniversary Lodge. Jim was vindicated when a groundhog hole was discovered in the side of the hill with a tunnel leading For Bette Kinnaird, there is nothing quite like the an- right under his tent. Jim’s bedroll was smack over top ticipation that steals over her as she approaches camp. of a nest of baby groundhogs fighting for the best Once there, there is nothing to match the warmth and feeding spots. Needless to say, Jim moved his tent! wonderment that fills her heart especially early morning arrival for a Chopperee or Cub Fun Day. It’s It is interesting to note that Bob Tice got Jim Carey amazing to see the fields come alive as Scouters build, started in Scouts who got Ron Mollon started, who got assemble and prepare activities for the youth mem- Bill Nutley started and so on and so on. bers. To her, this is Camp Nemo at its best. GRAB BAG OF MEMORIES To Jim Russell, like most, Camp Nemo is many things. It’s a sea of coloured tents spread over the Mary Elop (Nemo: 1980 - present) has many wonder- fields on a Victoria Day Weekend, Confederation ful memories of Nemo. Her eyes will always light up lodge lined with parkas as their owners crowd in for as she tells of the wonderment of her first ever camp- dinner on a -17 degree Saturday night at a Klondike fire on her Part I at Nemo. She smiles as she recalls Camp or Fleur-De-Lis Hill covered in Scouts and seeing Beavers mired in mud valiantly planting “Trees Venturers at an early evening Scouts Own. for Canada”, now “Scoutrees”, at Nemo. She is proud of the big breakthrough in 1995-96 when the Coun- cil’s first Beaver sleep over in Panabode A became a reality. She laughs as she remembers a mother calling out, “Where’s the bathroom?”

Nancy Braun (Nemo: 1995 - present) remembers clearly her first impressions of Mount Nemo. “How could a camp like Nemo exist so close to cities like Burlington and Hamilton? It’s another world outside world of woods, streams, mosquitoes and all the won- ders of nature.” Sounds pretty good for a place that was just a sheep farm 50 years ago!”

Lashing exhibit built by the 21st Hamilton Rovers - June 1, 1997 Doug Waller (Nemo: 1977 - present) was a total “city Malcolm and Bill also tell their Swamp Nemo story. boy” when, as a Cub, he first experienced Nemo and At a Victoria Weekend after all the kids had been ‘nature”. “It was neat to find out that our leaders were evacuated from a very wet camp on a Sunday morn- entirely different people at Camp. Camp does that to ing, they and several other leaders stayed on, the sun people, I guess. I knew that I wanted to be a leader came out and the rest of the long weekend was super! myself someday.”

Doug and his wife Sue have both been leaders and are starting a Scouting family of their own. They introduced their 2 week old baby Danniella to Nemo at the Reunion on June 1, 1997.

Jim Matson and Ron Hart (Nemo: 1947 - 1970’s) tell how they loved to take their boys on 2 special nature excursions: one to the back of the camp to view the woodcocks; and the other to see the “Front Gate Owls” feeding their young. In each case, great stealth was required. To see the owls, they had to crawl up through long grass and lay motionless for a long time. It was not easy for kids until the owls appeared, then there wasn’t a twitch in the crowd!

Wilf Pugh (Nemo: 1946 - 1957) recalls winter camp- Jim Hyslop (Nemo: 1947 - 1970’s) says it didn’t mat- ing in Ram Inn in a wild blizzard. The stove pipes ter what time of year you camped at Nemo, it always were red hot and the windows were not made of glass rained! On a tobogganing weekend in January it at all. They were screens just shellacked over several rained so long and hard that it turned into a “winter times! He also remembers planting trees, building a canoe” weekend and everyone had a great time canoe- wilderness shelter and mapping the Bronte Creek from ing down the slopes on the wet grass. Camp up to the escarpment as a part of his First Class Badge. During the first International Jamborette held at Nemo in the spring of 1956 Jim listened in amazement to the Malcolm Hurst (Nemo: 1960 - present) and Bill Nut- exciting stories of 4 Polish Scouts who escaped from ley (Nemo: 1972 - present) will never forget operat- Poland during the war . ing a Kim’s Game part way along a trail during an all night exercise for Venturers during the Victoria Week- Jim also tells his Swamp Nemo story. The kids came end Camp in 1984. At about 2 a.m. they were alone down with the flu like flies and parents were sum- and relaxing when suddenly, out of nowhere, a pack of moned to Camp Sunday morning to pick them up. B. wild dogs came racing towards them. When Bill and P. lane was packed bumper to bumper with cars com- Malcolm were asked “where did the dogs come ing and going and police were needed control the traf- from”, they answered, “We didn’t stop to ask, we were fic on “quiet” No. 2 Sideroad. too busy running in the other direction.” Donna and Pete Miedema (Nemo: 1969 - present) Matthew Horyn (Nemo: 1980 - present) says that, “As have spent years camping with their 2nd Dundas boys a Cub, Mount Baldy was like Mount Everest! It took at Nemo. “It’s the friendship, the camaraderie, It’s the us about 4 days to get to the top!” people you meet at Nemo that make camping so worthwhile. Did the rain ever beat us? Yes!! It His fondest memories of Nemo are as a Venturer Ad- rained so hard and so long at the C.J. ‘89 Precamp that visor, especially on Victoria Weekend Camps canoe- we all packed it up and left Sunday morning. We’d ing and rafting on the spring flood waters of Bronte had it!” Creek or on John Harbour’s ingeniously planned night hikes especially the one where the thickest fog in his- As Factors since 1974, their most gratifying moments tory descended on 100 Venturers just after they’d been have been those helping strangers to Nemo orient dropped off at various points miles from Camp and themselves to Camp. “It’s wonderful seeing them told to find their way back. The result was that Opera- leave later as confident “Nemo-ites" tion Retrieval was established where all the Venturer Advisors burned up tanks of gas before getting every- They remember the year Dundas Scouts hosted 20 body home again. Other favourite activities include Japanese Scouts at Nemo. caving on Mount Nemo and rock climbing on Rattle- snake. Matthew said, “Camp Nemo is not only a great One of the funniest moments was watching Bill Truax camp in itself but a great base from which to range out shinny up the flagpole in 1981 to retrieve the flag over the countryside”. when the line broke.

Don Spong (Nemo: 1952 - present) loves to tell about standing on the top of “the big hump” in the floor of old B.P. Lodge surrounded by 35 to 40 Cubs. It was easy to give the daily instructions. You just had to rotate through 360 degrees!

Like other leaders, Don also believes that kids really don’t know their leaders until they have been to camp together.

Ed Gawley was a District Field Commissioner with Gord Williams from 1951 to 1954. He tells of the swimming pool they dug in those early years. It didn’t work any better than the Bronte Creek attempts. It took water from Nemo Creek but the silting was so bad that it was soon abandoned. He remembers: to- Archery at Camp Nemo - Victoria Day - date unknown mato soup at all of the winter camps which was heavily spiked with pepper to keep everybody warm; mov- Tom Booth (Nemo: 1979 - present) and Jay Prodger ing K.Y.B.O.’s - “I always felt sorry for the guys at (Nemo 1996 - present), Scout leaders with 5th An- the back as they would invariably end up with a caster, were 1970’s Beavers, Tom locally and Jay in soaker”; a springtime P. L. Training Camp where St. Catharines. Nemo has always meant fun to Tom. the Scouts were told to pack up in a hurry as they were He says he spent all his spare cash at the Tuck Shop being trucked north to fight forest fires. The true des- and remembers getting so sick on candy and junk food tination was Blue Springs with no fires but with a that his mother, Janis (4th Ancaster Leader) had to great program lined up for them. When setting up come and take him home! Jay finds it hard to believe their tents, they found that they had all forgotten to that such a wonderful facility exists so close to urban remove the strips of flypaper hanging inside, “Have centres. He’s impressed with the mammoth organiza- you ever tried to remove that stuff from a tent?” tional structure in support of the theme approach to our Victoria Day Weekends. He says he has never Tony Sarson (Nemo: 1946 - 1952) said, “Gordie Wil- seen anything like it before. liams had me working on one project or another all of the time. The only way I got rid of him was to get married. It was pure bliss no more 8 day weeks working at camp for Gord!” Chris Kivell (Nemo: 1979 - present) as a Lynden Bea- Gord McLean (Nemo: 1982 - present) was a Scout ver in 1979 thought Nemo was a huge endless place. with Dan Peace at the 44th Hamilton Troop, located at As a Rover today it seems much smaller to Chris who St. Giles United Church. He was later a leader with says, “I think it’s more used today. There’s more Dan. Nemo was always a favourite camping spot for room for a fuller, richer level of activities and Doc the 44th and it follows that when Gord became the Vaughan’s Conservation Plan is going to make it even Mate to the 21st Rover Crew, the Crew centred its ac- better!” To talk to Chris is to sense a strong element tivities around Nemo. of Camp ownership within him. Gord and Brian, both strong on lashing and pioneer- Chris said the 2 Australian Rovers who visited Nemo ing, constructed an amazing array of towers and plat- at the time of our May 1997 Victoria Day Weekend forms for the June 1, 1997 camp reunion. For Brian, were, “blown away and Tim Horton’s is only 5 min- Nemo is definitely his home away from home. He utes drive away!” said, “It’s all here, everything you want from rock climbing to rafting. Watching the salmon run in Liz James and Janis Booth (Nemo: 1984 - present) Bronte Creek is just plain amazing!” remember, as Venturer mothers, being invited by John Harbour to drive kids to camp in 1984. They recalled that No. 2 Sideroad was still a gravel road. It was hard surfaced in 1985. John then invited him to join him as leaders in the 4th Ancaster Venturer Company which was co-ed. John told them, “It will only take you a few hours a week.” They still laugh over that line.

Little did they realize in 1984 that the magic of Scout- ing and especially of Nemo would lead them to become joint Camp Chiefs for the Venturer Subcamp at Victoria Day 1997. They found that the non-mom aspect of being leaders of their own kids (6 in all eventually), especially in the casual outdoor surroundings of camp has been a most rewarding experience. They Preparing Dinner at Pod 4 on a Klondike Gold Stage stated, “You become close to your children in a differ- Hike - Date Unknown ent way.” OVERHEARD IN THE RAIN AT JUNE 1, 1997 They tell of one winter camp where they had to help a CAMP REUNION leader find his way back to his campsite after getting lost at the back of the camp. It gave them each great 1st Old-timer: “The camp sure is different to what it satisfaction, as the lost leader was the veteran John was 50 years ago!” Harbour. 2nd Old-timer: “Weather’s about the same, though!” According to Bev Tice, Janis Booth, Bev Carey and Liz James one of the greatest things about Nemo is the For Terry Lloyd (Nemo: 1955 - present) Scouting is a wonderful moment when you get home on a Sunday family affair. He has a cherished picture of his dad as afternoon home from Nemo and settle into a bath with a Scout Leader, his brother as a Scout and himself as a hot, running water and shampoo!. The next greatest Cub. Nemo can be a cold spot according to Terry. He thing is a stove and a dishwasher. recalls staying in B.P. Lodge as a Cub: “You just couldn’t get warm!” Brian Winchester (Nemo: 1986 - present) has done it all through Beavers, Wolf Cubs, Scouts, Venturers and Later, as a Scout, he tells how they would place a now Rovers. His first Nemo experience was as a Cub metal sheet across the front of an Adirondak with a at Cub Fun Day 1986 with its Treasure Island theme. roaring fire against it on the outside: “and we still In 1996 he again attended Cub Fun Day with the 21st froze inside!” Hamilton Rover Crew who constructed a 2-stilt tower about 50 feet high for the Cubs to climb. Todd Martin (Nemo: 1969 - present) feels that Nemo AFTER THE REUNION... helps groups like his, the 31st Hamilton at Delta United Church, develop as a family. When their Cub Following the reunion on June 1, 1997, the celebra- Camp featured a medieval theme, the Rovers dressed tion of the 50th Anniversary and the completion of up as a horrible dragon who carried off a beautiful this book were far from over. Jim Russell continued princess and tied her up to a tree in the forest. The to collect stories, and people continued to tell them! Venturers, as King Arthur’s knights led the Cubs on a rescue mission to save the princess and behead the dragon. Finally, the slain dragon spewed forth dragon FROM NEMO TO THE KLONDIKE GOLD eggs (Donut Bits) and other mug-up goodies. “No FIELDS place can bring kids together like Nemo”, says Todd. 1997 marked the 100 year anniversary of the famed Klondike Gold Rush in the Yukon. Thousands of people from around the world backpacked the rugged Chilcoot Pass as part of the celebration. Among them was retired 66 year old Jim Hardman whose lifelong passion for hiking and camping was born while a Scout at the 4th Hamilton Troop at All Saints Church. Jim says that he and his buddies took day hikes, night hikes, winter and summer hikes and he will never forget trying to light a fire in the pouring rain with only 2 matches! Before Camp Nemo was officially opened, Jim remembers cycling there and almost breaking a leg when he jumped off a beam in the old barn, missed the straw pile and hit a wooden feed box instead!

Dog Sled Presentation during a Klondike Weekend - The Scouts used Camp Nemo as a base for their rock early 1990’s climbing and cave exploring trips to the “other” Mount Nemo and Rattlesnake Point. They seldom had Five 4th Ancaster Venturers with an average of 9 access to a car and Jim marvels at how they peddled Nemo years each to their credit were asked why the 15 to 20 miles on a one speed bike carrying food, camp was so important to them. Here’s what they clothing, cooking gear, canvas tent, rubber ground said: sheet and blankets.

• “It’s a wonderful place to get away from brothers, sisters and parents” • “It’s a great place to meet new people” • “You really feel close to nature at Nemo” • “It’s a getaway where you can’t get into trouble like you can back home and you are free to do the things you chose” • “Nemo is a place where you can help others and it is always appreciated” • “It’s a place where you can accept responsibilities that aren’t possible at home” • “It’s a place of fun: fun learning new skills; fun in- teracting with others; fun for not being criticized all the time for what you do” “Makes going home to family a fresh start affair. You have actually got something to talk about again, at least for a little while!” Rock climbing at Rattlesnake Point - date unknown “It was anything but lightweight camping in those SPREADING THE SPIRIT IN SANDS, STONE days,” said Jim. “The things I learned in those years AND SOIL became a part of my personality: self reliance; making do with what you have; pushing oneself to the limit. 1997 saw sand, stones and soil brought from all our That is why I feel totally at home in the bush and the past major campsites and spread at Nemo: Chilcoot Pass. We’re old friends. After all, this will be my fourth trip over the pass. It is all rooted in my - from the shores of Burlington Bay where our first Scouting days around Camp Nemo in the 1940's” camps were held, - from the sand dunes at the site of Camp Tetonkah at Port Maitland on Lake Erie,

- from the Spencer Creek in the Dundas Valley

- from Sulphur Springs in Ancaster.

Cub Keith Miller spread a “bit of Nemo” on Boule- vard Lake in Thunder Bay at C.J. ‘97 and returned with sand from its shores for our camp.

An exchange of soils between Nemo and Blue Springs was carried out at the time of the 1997 Gilwell Reun- ion.

Fire lighting skills practised - date unknown Soil from the Scout House property was also spread at Nemo. According to Beaver Leader Sharon Miller, TRAINING AND THE NEXT MILLENIUM we need not deliberately carry soil from Nemo back to Scout House because no amount of cleaning will ever From day 1, Camp Nemo has been a centre for council eliminate the Nemo soil deposited there by returning training. The first organized camp was held in Janu- campers and their equipment. ary, 1947. It was a training for District Patrol Leaders. A Training Lodge was built early on, and although its Who knows where this will take us. Maybe some day role changed during the years, the training continued. Camp Nemo will be the site of soil, sand and stones from clear across Canada--maybe even the world! In light of the fact that Hamilton Wentworth became a part of the new Battlefields Region extending from Niagara to Brantford in September, 1997, what will be Nemo’s role in the field of training? There was no G O O D B Y E S P E C T A T O R - - doubt about it in the mind of Donna Baillie then A.D. WELCOME ANNIVERSARY LODGE C. Training. Donna says, “With one of the best training facilities in Canada, Scouts from across the entire Labour Day weekend 1997 saw the framing of the new Region will be looking to Nemo for help in their walls of Anniversary Lodge. Beside it, and no longer training. What a great place for courses in “no trace” a camping site, Spectator Lodge stood proudly, seeing camping, for example. We will be needing a modern its last days out as a construction shed for the new Training Lodge. It is becoming a “must” in the minds building. Four members of the Lethbridge family of trainers as we head towards the year 2000. Could a were part of the volunteer construction crew: George Training Lodge be our gift to the next millennium?” and his sons Mike, Mark and Glenn. Nemo has been a part of the lives of this family almost from the outset. Jean and George, when very young leaders, spent their first wedding anniversary night in 1954 in a pup tent in front of B.P. Lodge. Gord Williams, who was factoring that weekend, knocked on their tent in the morning with 2 cups of steaming hot tea! As well as Lynda Gardner: The Beavers have a ball at Nemo, pioneering the pack and troop at Emmanuel United and some of them now represent the 3rd generation of Church, Jean and George were very active in the entire campers there. Council. Jack Atkinson invited Jean to open and operate our first Scout Shop at Scout House. Her cheery Joan Barty: For tranquillity and peace, the chapel is greetings warmed the hearts of all of us. George, on the best place to go. It lifts loads from the shoulders. the other hand, involved himself in construction pro- (Husband Colin agrees totally) jects at Nemo. In 1977, his 55th Rover Crew laid the railway tie steps down to Hencher Den. These were Pat Troughton: A wonderful place for fellowship and replaced during the summer of 1997 by the 81st Rover fun. There is a sense of the spiritual there. Crew. Gerry Johnston introduced George to log construction which resulted in his building of about 40 % of our 2 Panabodes by himself. As he surveyed all of the power equipment available for the construction of Anniversary Lodge, he laughingly remembered that the Panabodes were built entirely with hand tools. George also recalled how he and Ron Pine, with the sweat pouring down their faces, laid the patio stones around B.P. Lodge during one very hot summer day.

Camp memories are made of stuff like this, and the construction of Anniversary Lodge will supply a million more.

Lynda Freeman: You can’t beat it for wide open fun and MUD!

Marcel Martel: Because of Apple Day, we have the use of one of the best possible nature camps sitting on our very own doorstep.

Helen Tune: As long as they can handle mud and out- wit mosquitoes, generation after generation of kids will find Nemo to be consistently one of the safest and most exciting places for growing up.

Averill Tune: It’s wonderful to watch first time campers as they struggle to learn that mom doesn’t suddenly appear and come to their help, dirty dishes don’t clean themselves and the bathroom is called the K.Y. B.O. What a wonderful adventure awaits kids at Commemorative Plaque unveiled at official opening of Nemo. Anniversary Lodge by Hamilton Wentworth District president David Wands - October 1998 Frances Re: Where can you take kids where it is so safe and where they will find few “Do’s” and COMMENTS ABOUT NEMO FROM SOME OF “Don’ts”. Let’s keep it that way. It’s the great adven- THE SCOUTERS ATTENDING THE 1997 GIL- ture. WELL REUNION AT BLUE SPRINGS Lori Carey: It’s not only a place of fabulous child- Donna Baillie: Nemo is where my Cubs become hood memories, it’s a place where wonderful memo- Cubs. ries keep on growing! Scott Weaver: It’s the place where you find the “out” in Scouting at its best. Jim Carey: The place of a million wonderful memo- Bob Provo: If you want a place where you can rest ries: many in the kitchen while serving 40 or 400; and totally relax, go to Nemo! You can spread my many in work parties; many around the campfire. ashes there!

Louise Bushell (nee Scott): My most wonderful Fran Hopkins: I’ve seen city Cubs come home from a growing up memories from Hamilton are Nemo. My soggy weekend at Nemo, some wearing wrapping pa- 3 kids are in Scouting and my favourite dog for 17 per because everything else was wet. When you ask years was called...Nemo! I love bringing Mississauga them how things went, they tell you they had the ad- Groups to Nemo. venture of a lifetime.

Susan Crockford: For the 41st, it’s a second home and Doug & Jackie French: Just look at the myriad of it brings families together like nothing else can. Our courses that have been conducted there over the years! family (parents and kids) vacation event at Camp is It has got to be one of the best sites for training any- now a cherished annual affair. It really helps build a where in Scouting. sense of community. (Husband Johnmark agrees.) Richard Keast: It’s the complete camp. At one end Florence Patrick: The success of Nemo is rooted in you can run a program while living in a modern lodge. friendship. At the other end you can have a wilderness experience, centred around a totally self contained operation. Don MacAngus: It’s the best place I know to share good Scouting experiences. It is the greatest Ada Bartlett: A great place for hugs! place to go to reflect and relax. Bill & Chris McCready: Nemo is a grand mix of the familiar and the unfamiliar. There are always old friends and routines, yet at the same time something new always awaits you.

50th Anniversary Committee: Everyone seems to have in their mind a personal Nemo they can escape to and dream on. That will never change. 10 SUMMARY OF BOARD AND COMMISSIONER REPORTS

hearted enthusiasm, energy and loyalty. Perhaps this is best illustrated by the fact that the most recent cen- sus shows that we have moved numerically into second place in the Province. In addition, Mr. Williams is really putting the 'out' into Scouting. He is an ar- dent, capable outdoor Scouter.

And this prompts a few remarks concerning a very important event in the Scouting life of our district. I re- fer to the acquisition of our camp site two North of Tansley on the Bronte Creek. Deserving of very special mention in this connection are Mr. A.W.E. Van- Someren and Col. H.S. Robinson, the former for his innumerable trips to the property and untold time spent in negotiations, the latter for the time and trouble taken to iron out the extremely involved legal entan- glements of the whole transaction.

Camp Report (Sulphur Springs)

Mr. Williams took charge of our Campsite at the Her- mitage as Camp Factor, and with the help of three As- THE ANNUAL REPORTS sistant Factors operated the Camp for the month of July during which time 550 nights were spent under canvas by Scouts and Cubs, and 350 Group Commit- teemen and parents visited the Camp. 1945 The Campsite was also the site of a picnic of the Lead- From the President’s Report ers and their wives on Saturday, June 22nd when 50 Mark Tew gathered for an afternoon of fun and games - and also of our first post-war Rover Moot in September, when During the summer, a purchaser for the Scout Camp eighty Rovers spent a weekend under canvass. This came into sight and it looked very much as if this very important branch of our Movement which has property would be lost to us. At the request of the Ex- been out of the picture during the war is showing vig- ecutive, Mr. VanSomeren went to Washington to see orous and enthusiastic growth, and under the leader- the owner and as the result of that trip and subsequent ship of Bob Gibson, our Assistant Commissioner for correspondence, we are pleased to advise that Mr. Rovers, will not only provide an opportunity for train- Speiden has continued our lease with a view of giving ing in advance Scouting and citizenship to our young us additional time to attempt to finance this purchase. men, but will provide an ever-increasing flow of qualified, competent leaders for the carrying on of our work. 1946 We have given up the Hermitage Campsite and pur- From the President’s Report chased a new property on Bronte Creek where we will Dr. Gordon Jackson have every opportunity of providing our boys with this most important part of their training. Forty-five of We feel that we have built up a strong central head- our Leaders have already spent a weekend there on a quarters under Executive Commissioner Williams, and working party, making a start on preparing our new that Scouting in the District has been very considera- site. bly strengthened in every way by his whole- 1947

Training Report A.D.C. for Training Tom Rogerson

Reforestation - May 10th our activities moved out to happy Mount Nemo where we held our first Reforesta- tion Camp. 100 boys camped out as individual Groups and took active part in the planting of trees. Sunday we were assisted by a group of 20 Rovers and Leaders and in all planted 7000 young trees. The species were White Pine, Scotch Pine, Ash, Maple and Elm. This effort was completed only after an average of 6 hours work per boy. In conjunction with the Camp, a Reforestation Course was held at Headquar- ters and a goodly number of Scouts received their For- esters Badge.

Daniel Boone - Winter weekend - January 25th 1948 marked the first of our Leaders Winter weekends and set the pace for Hamilton's Winter Camping. 10 Lead- Training and Camp Committee Report ers attended and slept out under shelter with reflector A.D.C. Tom Rogerson fires. Canned goods were left at home with the baked bread, and cooking was of the backwoods style. Our 1948 programme of training opened with our An- Tracking, Bird Stations, Nature Study completed the nual Daniel Boone out-door week-end at Mount programme and a comparison of the various articles of Nemo. Twelve stalwart leaders attended this course clothing and equipment was taken for future use. This and proved once again, that 16 inches of snow and course created a great deal of interest and has gone a zero weather could not dampen the spirits nor incon- long way towards putting the 'out' in Scouting during venience the well prepared and wood-wise Scout. this time of year. Yes, it will become a definite part of Erection of shelters, reflector fires, and making our- our yearly programme. selves comfortable for the night were our first objectives. When settled, we enjoyed a meal of three chick- Camp Committee Report ens cooked over the open fire, contrary to expectations they were delicious and tender. Tracking, erecting The year past has been one of both success and sur- bird stations, archery and a Scouts' Own comprised the prise. Success because we completed all we set out to rest of the programme. do, namely the drilling of wells, reforestation’s, getting the buildings removed from Ancaster and set up THE RAM INN proved once again to be a very popu- on our own property, improving Ram Inn, and fixing lar place for Winter Camping and was booked up well the road. Surprises, because of the efforts of Mr. Van- ahead during the season. A good sign that our Winter Someren and the Executive, who have completed the Programme is getting over to the boy and the Scout building of our Headquarters, and are no doubt work- group. ing on another surprise for next year. THE SILVER ARROWHEAD COURSE (Southern Rovering Report Ontario) contrary to expectations was again held at A.D.C. Rovers Robert Gibson Mount Nemo. Owing to last minute arrangements the attendance was not up to our usual standard, but the At the Mr. Nemo Camp Site, the District Rover Coun- staff (under the leadership of Mr. Wm. Robson) did a cil has been given a tract of land for their own devel- wonderful job and the remarks by Scouts attending, opment. They have built a cabin which is being used and their Scouters, have been very gratifying. and have constructed a rustic stairs to the cabin from the road. Many winter activities are on at the present time such as Winter Cabin camping. 1949 the Scouters' Training Course and the work being carried out by the members of the Scouters' Club. Camp Committee Entrance Way - Parking lot and erecting of signs have Our second year at Mount Nemo while not showing engaged the attention of our members and have greatly the spectacular advance of our first year, has been one improved the appearance of this part of our camp, the of progress. There is still need of a supply of good roadway is gradually improving and with continued drinking water. efforts on our part, over a period of time, we shall have this problem off our minds. THE REFORESTATION CAMP was held last May when 3,000 trees were planted. Over a hundred Ram Inn - The Ram Inn came in for lots of attention, Scouts, Rovers and leaders attended and took an active new floor, new wall, with raised windows and com- part, all Scouts qualified for the Forester's Badge. pletely lined inside with ply board. Our Friend Jim Torswick has every reason to be proud of his efforts Training Report here. A.D.C. Tom Rogerson Cooler - The cooler has been completed except for a Our 1949 Training opened in February with our An- little earth work and will become of great value during nual Daniel Boone weekend. Twelve stalwarts at- the summer months. tended this course in Winter Training. The venison supplied by Dr. Gordon M. Jackson and prepared by Reforestation - Reforestation under the leadership of Mrs. Pekins added the finishing touch to our Wood- Herb LeVan still goes on with bigger and better craft programme. courses coming up each year and more and more young trees appearing on the Campsite. The Scouters' Course in September hit a new height in attendance and was enjoyed by all, a total of 24 certifi- Winter Log Shelter (All Inn) - Work has been started cates were earned by members completing the neces- on a log open front shelter for fall and winter Patrol sary meetings and the weekend camp. The cook staff Camp well down the valley towards the back of the must be congratulated for their efforts on our behalf at camp and should prove a worthwhile addition to Ram Mount Nemo, any Scouter or Cub Leader wishing a Inn for the purpose of Winter Camping and adventur- special course on outdoor cooking and management ing, and according to some of our Lumber Jacks could not do better that join our training department should be ready for at least part of our Winter Activi- cookhouse team. ties this year.

Badge and Tracking courses were held and conducted These are only a few of the larger projects for 1949, by the Scouters' Club. Attendance and number of many Campsite improvements have been made by badges earned show the wisdom of holding these one various Scouters, Rovers and the boys themselves, too day training outings. numerous to mention here. If you are not up to date in these things then it is time you paid a visit to Mount Camp Report Nemo and had a trip around our Campsite. To our factors, training teams, Scouters' Club, Akela Club The Camp Report is one of still further advancement and all the many who played a part in our 1949 effort, towards our joint ideas of what a Scout, Cub and I can only say "Well Done" and may your future ac- Rover Camp should be. A new camp committee sys- tivities be so successful. tem has been set up and already new plans, new enthusiasm and greater efforts on the part of all are appar- Hamilton District Rover Report ent. During the year the following additions have D.C. Robert Todd been made. Headquarters building now boasts a real kitchen in the making. Window and door added, sink At the Mount Nemo Rover Training Camp trails have cupboards and drainage system with further plans in been cut by the 11th Crew, council fire and chapel re- the offing. Main hall, good start has been made to- constructed by the 22nd Crew, 40th Crew worked on wards installing a large stone fireplace, and before the gateway and the 27th Crew on many months, or should I say weeks, will be ready for use. The stones for this project are being taken from the old barn. The idea was born at shingling the Gibson Cabin and a number of Crews Ram Inn, I am glad to say can no longer be referred to combined and are now constructing a larger camp K. as the Chicken Coop having been completely over- Y.B.O. hauled, new roof, floor, log siding, wood shed lined inside, extra door and a new wood stove. We owe a Many excellent programmes have been run by the dif- vote of thanks to Scouter James Torswick for his mag- ferent Crews and I trust that you will go ahead and try nificent effort. and operate at least one outdoor programme each month. The Cub Lodge is now a reality and by all reports is meeting the approval of the Cub Leaders. Naturally we have still more work to do on this building before we can write it off our account sheet. In the meantime I am sure that Cub Camp committee will be busy on ways and means of beautifying the surroundings.

The Rover section has also seen many changes. The Gibson Hut has been re-built inside and lined with plyboard, the playing field graded. The bunky has been erected and is being improved and plans are going ahead for further work.

The Scout playing field has been greatly improved and boasts a baseball diamond, football field and baskets for basketball. 1950 Reforestation is carried out every year with 3000 Training and Camp Report young trees going in yearly. Logging has been carried A.D.C. Tom Rogerson out each fall and many deceased and old dead trees are being taken out for Camp use. The wisdom of doing TRAINING - Training opened early as usual with the so can been seen in the fine crop of natural seedlings Daniel Boone Winter Camp. Two Patrols of Leaders springing up where such work has been carried out. attended the Course on Winter Scouting and further The general condition of camp is good, small and not logging was carried out at the side of the Adirondak so small improvements are far too numerous for me to shelter. mention in this report. To the many Leaders who have given so much of their spare time and unlimited effort The Scouters Outdoor Preliminary Course was held at to the improvement of the Camp I can only say "well Mount Nemo. Twenty-five members attended the done." Course. Owing to sickness and other unforeseen cir- cumstances we had to call upon various other leaders Camp Committee’s Achievements During 1950 to assist the staff with the work. To all of these members I give thanks for a job well done. • Erected 3 wire gates to main entrance of camp Gravelled road twice, and graded 3 times CAMPING - 1950 will go down as one of vast im- • provement at Mount Nemo. After four years of persis- • Two rubbish burners installed tent effort I feel confident that we are well on the way to having the problem of B.P. Road beat, with the ad- • Gallon water tank, located on site and platform dition of the wire gates, gravel parking lit and the fur- erected at end ther dispersal of the barn. The approach has been • New camp signs erected greatly improved, much of this work has been done by individual groups. Thanks for the efforts of the La- • Loads of stone transferred from barn to Leaders dies, the Leaders Lodge living quarters have taken on Lodge for fireplace a more homey look and we hope to show our appreciation by having new floors laid, our stone fireplace completed and propane stoves installed. • All wells tested twice During the summer months many happy hours of Cub holidays were spent around this Lodge, with the jungle • Ram Inn reconditioned taking a period of 8 in the hollow and the sports field across the road and weeks the dam enlarged in Bronte Creek. • Cub Campsite cleaned I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Cub • Parking and turning gravel arranged at end of road Leaders who gave their time so voluntarily to improve our section of the Mount Nemo Scout Camp. • New stove erected in Ram Inn Hamilton District Annual Scout Camp Report • New trees tagged for Nature Lore Harry West, Chairman, Scout Camp Committee • Fire door installed at back of Leaders Lodge • Museum improved in Leaders Lodge This has been quite an active year at Camp Nemo and we have been able to accomplish a lot but there is still • Erection of new Cub Lodge more projects and work to be undertaken. A new flag • Cub totem pole started centre has been built with flag poles, surrounded by rope fence. A weather station has been installed. • Trails cleared Painting of Scout Lodge was completed, also tarring • New Rover gateway started of roof, and putting up water troughs. Two blue • Rover chemical toilet erected spruce were planted in front of lodge. Quite a number of additions have been added to our museums. Cup- boards and a serving door have been built inside the lodge kitchen. Existing toilets have been moved and placed in new locations.

A new road leading to lodge from car park has been opened. The council fire has been made more comfortable with some new painted seats. The sandbag dam was built about 200 yards downstream from the old dam, raising the water level to about 48" high, making better swimming. A few projects have not been completed as yet, but hope to get on with them in the near future.

All in all, we have had a very successful and active year.

Hamilton District Annual Rover Camp Report Harlie F. Duncan 1951 Chairman Rover Camp Committee

Hamilton District Annual Cub Camp Report 1951 saw many changes made at Mr. Nemo Rover Marion Hill, Chairman Cub Camp Committee Camp Site. Gibson Hut was lined, painted and move- able bunk beds and new stove installed, also a veranda During the year, the Cub Leaders' Camp Committee built on it. operated 6 working parties on the Cub Campsite. The committee feels our Cub Lodge, containing kitchen, The construction of Hencher Hut was completed, 4 dining room and bedroom is a credit to our Akela bunk beds and a stove and 4 chairs installed. Club. This year the cabin has been oiled, the kitchen door cut in half for serving, propane cooking stoves The floor and 4 walls have been put up in the con- erected, sheeting inside re-arranged, the wiring started, struction of a new hut, but due to lack of funds a new road located to keep the field clear for campers, the tables and forms painted. the building has not been completed. The main field 1952 was seeded, and the driveway put in. 1,000 trees were planted in the nursery. On the Rover Camp Site, B.P. Camp Report Road was widened through the gully to accommodate George Jaap, Chairman - Cub Camp Committee the extra traffic to the Rover Camp Site. Harry West, Chairman - Scout Camp Committee Ed Ascott, Chairman - Rover Camp Committee I wish to thank all the Rover Leaders and Crews who helped on construction and repairs. A number of improvements have been made this year at Mount Nemo Campsite. Heavy earth moving In closing may I wish all the success to our A.D.C. equipment provided by the kind co-operation of the Rovers and to my successor on the Rover Camp Com- Hamilton Street Railway, the Steel Company of Can- mittee ada, Aldershot Equipment Rentals and Mr. R. Barnes of the Executive have permitted the following work: a Rover Scouts Report new and larger dam on the Bronte Creek, levelling of John Hencher, Assistant District Commissioner the barn foundation, a new pool near the artesian well, the parking lot enlarged, roads improved and grav- Under the guidance of my loyal assistant, D.R.L. Har- elled. lie Duncan, there has been continued improvement of our campsite. The field and roadway have been Through the efforts of Leaders and Boys, too many to graded, trees have been planted in strategic spots and a mention individually, the following works were com- great deal of work has been done on our cabins. Both pleted: new bridges across the Nemo Creek, more K. Gibson Hut and Hencher Hut are quite habitable and Y.B.O.’s erected, fireplace in the Leaders Lodge com- we will encourage some winter camping this year. pleted, stairs in the Leaders Lodge moved, lodges painted, Council Fire made Indian Style, new floors in the Rover Lodges.

The Campsite has been well used this year with over 1,000 boys camping there. Groups came from Bronte, Woodstock, Niagara Falls, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, New York and Pennsylvania. Many visited the Camp- site for one day.

Twenty-one groups with 476 boys took their annual summer camp to more distant campsites.

We wish to thank everyone who gave of their time and effort in a true Scouting Spirit in making such a wonderful report possible.

Rover Scout Report John Hencher, Assistant District Commissioner

The Rover Story this year revolves around two points, the Campsite and travel.

During the last year, new enthusiasm has been shown which it is hoped will grow into a real revival of interest in our Campsite at Mount Nemo. At the present time the site looks better than it ever has. Our trees are beginning to show up, Hencher Hut has been win- terized, the extension on Gibson Hut is practically completed. There is still a great deal of work to do before our Site is buildings, or assisting with the raising of Apple Day a show place, but by basing more Rover activities there, funds, I am sure you will feel as I do, that it has not we hope to stimulate interest. been a bad old year and it certainly got all of us pull- ing in the same direction. During the year Hamilton Rovering has been represented at all the publicized Rover activities in the Prov- Yes! We have much to do yet in furnishings, etc. in ince. A canoe trip into the wilds of Northern Ontario 1954, but the road is clear. Let's keep digging, your and a motor trip to Mexico to film native art and cus- accomplishments speak for themselves. toms were also successfully accomplished.

Once again Hamilton Rovers have spent a year living the knight's creed of Service and Adventure. 1954

Executive Board Committees

Mr. Rolph Barnes, Chairman Camp Committee, with his committee of Scouters under A.D.C. Tom Roger- son, has carried on a programme of construction and conservation to improve facilities at our Mount Nemo Scout Camp so that thousands of boys will continue their year-round camping. Improved facilities in all Lodges, construction of a dam in the Bronte Creek, encouraged over 8,000 campers and visitors to Mount Nemo for a one day camp or more. To date, over 29,000 trees have been planted to improve the value of our camp property.

From the President’s Report James Wright Area Commissioner President: John Hamilton

CAMPING Mount Nemo, our District Campsite, has been used once again for 52 weeks of the year. Winter Camping, Rallies, Jamborette, Training Courses and Group Camping has kept the lodges and campsite full 1953 of activity. Nineteen of our Packs and Troops camped for 127 days away from our own site, with 527 Cubs Camp Committee Report and Scouts taking part in the Camps. George Jaap, Chairman - Cub Camp Committee Harry West, Chairman - Scout Camp Committee Ed Ascott, Chairman - Rover Camp Committee

The year 1953 started out for us as one of gloom and heartbreak after the Mount Nemo fire, but quickly turned to hope, determination and plans for the future. Mount Nemo was on the march again and today we see the camp in her infinitely more satisfactory dress, namely the new buildings.

To those of you who played a part in this transformation, whether it be in cleaning up the rubble planning the new 1958

From the Area Commissioner’s Report James Wright

Have you every thought that when our Boys pitch their tents at Mount Nemo, thousands of boys throughout the World are doing the same thing? They join the Movement for the 'out' in Scouting and we, here in Hamilton, are justly proud of our record - close to 10,000 camper nights during the past year.

1957

Area Commissioner’s Report James Wright

CAMPING - Mount Nemo has again continued its record of keeping its gates open 52 weeks in the year. Winter Camping, Courses, Rallies, Camporees and 1960 Group Camping have kept the campsite full of activity, with never a dull moment. Our thanks are ex- From the President’s Report tended to our new Camp Committee, who have do- Norman MacGregor nated hundreds of hours of service to maintain the high standard throughout the year. Maybe the most spectacular development of the year was the increase in the use of Mount Nemo, and to LADIES AUXILIARIES - Every time I attend a support this development, our Apple Day Campaign Scouting event, I see our most loyal supporters, the went away over the top allowing us to create a fund Mothers, working and aiding all our Committees in a for the purchase of a northern camp site. hundred and one ways, sewing, catering, providing transportation, cooking at camp, operating canteens, Our Annual Boy Scout-Girl Guide Parade was larger, counting Apple Day money, stringing Apple Day tags, more colourful, and better organized than ever before. issuing Headquarter's mail, purchasing projectors, training equipment, first-aid equipment, sponsoring The Hamilton Spectator, not being content with pro- boys and leaders to take advanced courses, even paint- viding the financial support for our parade and with ing and decorating at the Mount Nemo Scout Camp on giving us editorially and pictorially a most satisfactory work week. We could not get along without them. coverage in our public relations, also gave us the funds One of our outstanding pioneers in Ladies Auxiliary for another much needed Cub Lair at Mount Nemo. work came to the end our her term of office this year. We have also during the year been able to fill a much- I was very happy to present our friend, Mr. J.G. Ham- needed want at Scout House by erecting a wing to take ilton, with a Gold THANKS BADGE. Thank you, care of our own and the Girl Guides' much expanded Mrs. Hamilton for an excellent job. activities. From the Area Commissioner’s Report MacKenzie, in addition to their regular maintenance James Wright and improvement programme, installed and finished an addition to Tetonka donated by Baldasaro and Mac- Throughout the year we have specialized in conserva- Gregor Ltd. contractors. By an outstanding effort they tion-our forestry course planted 2,000 trees, and hun- prepared the new Spectator Lodge for opening on June dreds of leaders donated their time to keep our camp- 24th at which time representatives from the business site to a high standard. Again I would like to say world, press and radio, along with any friends of Thank You to Harlie Duncan and his staff for this ma- Scouting, participated in the opening by the Rev. John jor achievement. Witzel, of Mount Hamilton United church. A Scout- ing flavour was added to the proceedings with the 17th Our greatest achievement of the year is our record of Cub Pack and the two Jamboree Troops, all of whom 28,000 nights of camping, a gain of ten thousand over were in camp for that weekend. The new Spectator the record of 1959. This has been possible only Lodge, through its facilities, extends the spirit of ad- through the tremendous effort of our voluntary leaders venture to many more of our Cub groups. to keep their 'Out' in Scouting.

Mount Nemo Camp Committee Report Jack MacKenzie

The two greatest achievements at Mount Nemo Scout Camp during the past year have been the construction of the new water storage tank, and the completion of the Spectator Cub Lodge, with the Rover Scouts and Scouters putting up most of the Cub building. Throughout the year a steady record of maintenance was carried on:

All lodges were painted inside, and repairs done to several. The veranda and walls of St. Giles Lodge were repaired, also the doors of B.P. Lodge. The Har- vester Cub Lodge was fitted with windows and screens. A new stove was put in the Ram Inn. Floors and walls of Hencher and Gibson, the two Rover cabins, were replaced. Tetonka Lodge was enlarged. Camp equipment and all K.Y.B.O.’s were painted. 1961 The three Cub lodges received new signs. Grounds maintenance has been considerable. The Fleur-de-lis From the President’s Report crest on the hillside has been made permanent, the G. B. Hamilton parking lot extended, trails have been cleared, potholes in the Sports Field were filled in. The Scouts on In June, we opened our new Spectator Cub Lair, do- the forestry courses planted new trees. nated by the Hamilton Spectator, giving us increased Cub capacity at Nemo, and we were supported again I would like to pay tribute to the quantity and quality by the International Harvester Company, who main- of work accomplished by my predecessor, Mr. Harlie tained their Cub Lair, showing further evidence of the Duncan and his Rovers. To continue his standard of wonderful support we receive from the citizens of this maintenance, I require the assistance of more Rover community. Crews, each of which I would like to see responsible for some area of camp upkeep. I wish also to thank District Council Commissioner’s Report the members of my Camp Committee for their loyalty C. H. Clark and labour.

As in previous years, operation of the camp at Mount Nemo has filled its proper place in the Scouting life at Hamilton. The Camp Committee under Mr. J. Mount Nemo Camp Committee (1961):

First Aid & Factor's Lodge - Dorothy Forrest Forests - Gerry Johnston B.P. Lodge - Elliott Aggus #1 Cub Lair - Doug French #2 Cub Lair - Bob Madill #3 Cub Lair - Gord Worthington Ram Inn - Royce Gunn St. Giles Lodge - Rich Pearson Tetonka - Don Clitsome Gibson Den - Rich Etherdon Hencher Den - John Webb Camp Trails - Colin Leech-Porter 1963 DuBurgh Chapel - Pete Smith From the President’s Report Fleur-de-lis Hill - Walt Simmons W.R. Macpherson #1 Cub Field - Wayne Block In many ways, the year 1963 was one of accomplish- #2 Cub Field - ment. At Camp Nemo, improvements were made to #3 Cub Field - the Factor's Lodge, and further allotments were made Sports Field - Bob Bernat to the funds being provided for the building of a Rover Chalet and a Cub Lair. Unfortunately, our perennial Swimming Pool - Arnold Fowler problem, the water system, was not completely solved, Poison Ivy Control - Rick Provo but it is fully expected that needed improvements will be completed in 1964. #1 Troop Site - Jack Tamborn Council Committee Report C. H. Clark 1962 At Mount Nemo - Early in the season, an extension Council Committee Report was built onto the Factor's Lodge to provide better ac- C. H. Clark commodation and to improve our First Aid set up there. The equipment that was installed in 1962 to im- In the early part of the year the first phase of a perma- prove the water services for the campsite met with nent water system was installed at the Mount Nemo limited success and further development is being in- Campsite, designed to eliminate the use of contami- vestigated. Work was performed late in the season to nated storage tanks and to provide water services for bulldoze the toboggan slide and remove much of the the nearby lodges. As is the case with all new devel- hazard that we have experienced on the slope in the opments, some problems arose and remain to be past. worked out, so that the water service to the Cub side of the camp will be more readily available than at pre- Mount Nemo Camp Committee Report sent. However, this installation of an approved perma- R.F. Baxter Chairman nent water storage is a major step in eliminating the cause of water problems, that have been serious in the 1963 saw a start to several important projects at past at Camp. Mount Nemo Scout Camp. In three work weekends in April the interior of most of 1964 the lodges were repaired where needed and then all were repainted. A good deal of camp maintenance Mount Nemo Camp Committee Report was also done at this time. In June, work started on a Chester Mulholland, Chairman ten foot addition to the Factor's Lodge and this project was completed by mid summer. A telephone has been In the fall of 1963 plans were made for many impor- installed in the stockade and is already proving its tant projects to be completed for the following year. worth. Hencher Lodge and Tetonka Lodge were relined with new hardboard. All lodges were repainted outside, Plans have been made to extend our water system to and all kitchens also received a fresh coat of paint. all the Cub Lodges by means of a pressure system to Roads were graded and oiled, the parking lot was ex- assist those working in those areas so far from the sup- tended. ply. Late in the year we had a bulldozer in camp which besides doing routing chores of filling the dump A major improvement was made in the Factor's and cutting a path around the bird reserve, completed Lodge: a small addition to house pumping facilities at long last our toboggan slope on the bird reserve. was built, electricity was installed, along with an in- Many thanks go to those who, over the preceding side toilet and running water, and this lodge will be months had worked endless hours making the slope heated throughout the winter months. A new refrig- ready for this winter. erator and a radio were donated by Scouters for the further comfort of the Factor and his family. Water MOUNT NEMO CAMP COMMITTEE (1963) can new be extended to all lodges by means of a pressure system. Executive Board Camp Consultants: W.A.T. Gilmour, J.M. Pigott Jr., T. Rogerson I would like to give a big hand of Thanks to all who Chairman - R.F. Baxter have made this year what I believe to be a successful period for Camp Nemo. Factor's Lodge - Mrs. F. Forrest First Aid - Mrs F. Forrest 1965 Stockade - M. Imrie From the Rovering Report

Camp Forests - Gerry Johnston Some three hundred Rovers from the Region attended All Inn - C. King the Spring Moot hosted by Hamilton District at Camp B.P. Lodge - Ancaster Crew/H. McCullough Nemo. The Moot was very successful both financially and in numbers attending. By October, the shell of the Scout Chapel - 68th Crew/D. MacDonald Rover Chalet was completed, and it promised to be a #1 Cub Lair - 1st Crew/N. Manning very fine building indeed. On Thanksgiving weekend three Crews painted the outside of the Chalet and put Rover Chapel - P. Smith insulation underneath the floor. #2 Cub Lair - 42nd Crew/R. Madill Mt. Nemo Camp Report Flag Circle - R. Pearson Chester Mulholland, Chairman #3 Cub Lair - 25th Crew/H. Shannik Fleur-de-lis - W. Simmons Throughout the year we have continued to develop winter camping in the lodges from Thanksgiving until Ram Inn - 63rd Crew/J. Hislop Easter; summer camping from May 1st to Thanksgiv- Sports Field - R. Bernat ing, and Cub Camping in the Cub Lairs from June 1st until October 1st. On some weekends 4-1/2 packs St. Giles - 6th Crew/J. Webb were accommodated, using the three Cub Lairs, B.P. #1 Troop Site - J. Tamborn Lodge, and Ram Inn. During the year, 23,238 camper Tetonka - 12th Pack/D. Clitsome nights were recorded. Gibson Den - 4th Aldershot Crew/G. Hutchings At the annual Executive Committee supper at Mt. and out of the Camp. Nemo last June, plans were finalized for the long- awaited building of the Rover Chalet, one of our 1967 I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone Centennial projects, and for the replacement of who has helped with the many camp Good Turns Hencher Lodge destroyed by fire in 1964. Construction throughout the past year, those who turned out on our was begun and I am happy to report that the outer shell work parties to paint the kitchens and floors, clean up of the Chalet can now be seen in the Rover Field, and repair broken facilities, and clear and maintain the whilst a greatly improved Hencher Den is now located ground. Their efforts are of real benefit to the camp- in a sheltered site below the orchard. It has been ers and leaders painted and insulated by the 21st Rover Crew and will soon be ready for use.

During the year, Venturers have built five small bridges over the creek to complete our Racoon Eye trail which starts from the training site in the valley, winds amongst the maples and firs of the conservation area and around the Bird Reserve, to give the camper and the visitor a refreshing look at our Ontario heritage.

Rover Scouts have continued to build the dam at the lower end of the swimming hole, while Scout Troops have built the ripple dams above the swimming hole. Those ripple dams aerate the water running over them, cleansing and clarifying the waters of our swimming hole. Throughout the summer months we have repeat- edly mowed the camping sites to keep down the weeds; the poison ivy and thistles have been sprayed; in the 1967 early spring, grass seed was spread around the eroded hill, toboggan run and trails, whilst 3500 new trees Mount Nemo Camp were planted in our conservation area by the Scouts on Dave Peat, Chairman Committee the Forester Badge Course. Mount Nemo Camp continues to attract a large num- During the summer months our water system continued ber of boys and leaders. The majority of Scouts and to pump water to four stand-pipes located around the Rovers only use the camp for overnight or weekend camp, easing the task of our Cub Leaders. An im- camping. Cubs, however, make full use of all avail- provement in our summer Factor's programme was the able facilities during the summer months. scheduling of their duty periods from Friday evening to Our Rover Chalet was officially opened by Controller Friday evening for the ten weeks of summer camping. Ann Jones on January 15th. Confederation Lodge, our Our winter weekend Factors supervised the camp for Centennial camp project was not completed due to cir- the remaining 42 weekends. These invaluable Scouters cumstances beyond our control but should be ready for and Group Committeemen allotted "Good Turns', or- use early in 1968. The District Camporee held on ganized swim periods, arranged for campfire locations, Victoria Day Weekend attracted more than 1,000 rendered First Aid, supervised the burning of rubbish, Scouts. This number included approximated 400 from arranged for the Scouts to tidy the Camp and swimming Niagara District Council, New York, USA area, and created a spirit of cheerfulness and good will. I would like to thank all who helped in any way with During the Victoria Weekend, we had the satisfaction our camping programs, from work parties to factors, of seeing 800 campers arrive with their Group Commit- and those who assisted with the boy programme, tee drivers, locate themselves in their separate parking Scouters, Group Committeemen and Ladies' Auxilia- lots, and transport their equipment to the assigned cam- ries; all played an important part in our camping suc- poree sites, under the direction of the District Group cess. Committeemen's Council who controlled the traffic into improved. The removal of all the old mattresses from the lodges has been another step in this direction.

The next concern was the condition of the lodges now present. It was indicated on the camp questionnaire that a number of the older buildings should be removed from the site. It was decided that this should be a three year project with St. Giles Lodge being replaced first. Ram Inn was destroyed by fire so the committee approved replacing both in the near future. To increase the scope of our winter Cub camping programme, we have insulated #2 Cub Lair and so the Scouts will not feel left out we have insulated Hencher for their use. Confederation Lodge is finished and available to all groups of over 50, providing they comply with the policy as outlined by the camp committee. 1969 The Factor's Lodge has now been improved to the ex- tent that it is pleasant to live in all year round. The From The District Committee Report addition of a new stove, new ceiling, florescent lights, new drapes and painting all the inside has given the Throughout the year the Camp Committee was active place a real home air. Our family of "all Inns" located in attempting to assess immediate and future needs of along the creek in growing in number and new mem- our camp at Nemo. A mailing survey was used to con- bers to the family have been promised. tact all leaders in the Council and we must acknowl- edge that the return is truly representative in that we received returns from 68% of the leaders expressing their feelings and the feelings of their boys concerning our campsite. In the early fall, the Camp Committee submitted recommendations to the Executive Board of the Council incorporating many of the ideas put for- ward which will improve winter camping and other activities on the campsite.

Camp Nemo Report Gerry Johnston - Camp Administrator Wilfred Darby - Camp Executive

1969 marked the approach of a new era in the quality of camping offered by the Hamilton District Council. There has begun an all out campaign to improve the appearance, serviceability and capacity of our facilities at Mt. Nemo.

One of the major concerns was to comply with the restrictions that the Board of Health recommended. To this end, there has been the addition of 7 new K.Y.B. O’s of a greatly improved design over the ones used in the past. Four new drainage systems have been added to the Cub Lodges and the Factor's Lodge. The garbage dump has been replaced by an all metal garbage shed from which the garbage is hauled away once a week, resulting in the overall cleanliness of the camp being vastly 11. THE ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

On November 15, 1995 a group of 4 people met for the • Having areas/groups adopt a building for the first time to start planning the 50th Anniversary Cele- year to ensure all maintenance and painting was brations for Camp Nemo. This committee was a sub up to date. committee of the Property committee and was chaired by Rick Elop.. • Finalize the Conservation plan for camp • Develop a trail system During the first meeting the founding members of the Anniversary Committee brainstormed for 2 hours on • Increase “signage” the major objectives of the celebrations. • Slide show at annual banquet Recorded in the minutes of that meeting were the fol- • Gather all the history lowing 5 major objectives: • Develop quick fact sheets for all buildings 1. History - research, preserve, understand and • Photo display to be used at district events communicate the rich history of Camp Nemo.. • Develop a camp crest and logo 2. Public Relations - external (increase the public awareness of Scouting) and internal (ensure that • Market souvenir items all members of Scouting feel proud of what they • Special push with an anniversary tie-in for the have) distinguished donor’s program 3. The opportunity for all current youth and adult • External Media at the open house and grand members to participate. In addition former lead- opening of the proposed new lodge ers and youth members should also have the opportunity to take part in the celebrations. • Special edition of The Scouter’s Dispatch • Camp Nemo Anniversary presence at all district 4. Leave Camp Nemo a better place at the conclu- events sion of the celebration It became apparent that many of the ideas were not the 5. Fund raising - natural tie in with the above objec- responsibility of the Anniversary Committee and some tives of the ideas were forwarded to other committees. We realized additional resource people were needed and the From these objectives many ideas were generated - original committee grew in size. During the Anniver- some of which ended up happening and some which sary Celebrations the following people were members never got off the drawing board. The minutes from the of the Anniversary Committee next few meetings reveal some of the following ideas: Rick Elop (Chair) • Reception/Open House (past and present people) George Guest • Replacing Spectator Lodge Carmen Harvey • “Wall of Fame” Bette Kinnaird • Time capsule Mike Lethbridge • Ensure all routine maintenance is up to date Catherine Martin • Develop a good camp map Camp Book of “light” Camp Nemo stories and memo- Bob Miller ries. Jim Russell Dave Wands The success of the Anniversary celebrations was the This brochure: result of countless hours given by these people to or- Introduced the anniversary logo (as illustrated on ganize the event. • the back cover of this book) As always there were contributions of time and talent • Announced the Anniversary Lodge project by over a 100 other volunteers who worked a specific project such as baking a cake for the birthday party, • Introduced the Anniversary Wall project painting a building, tending a to barbecue, greeting and directing guests etc. • Contained a “Did you Know?” section testing everyone’s knowledge of Camp Nemo Listed below are many of the events or accomplishments that took place during the anniversary celebra- • Gave an overview of other “Items of Interest” tions that would be happening during the celebrations.

ANNUAL MEETING The printed program for the evening featured the anniversary crest as illustrated on the front cover of this On March 4, 1996 the annual Hamilton Wentworth book. District meeting was held. This was the first time that the 50th anniversary message was introduced to mem- The Anniversary Committee also gave a visual presen- bers of Hamilton Wentworth Scouting. tation of one of the potential improvements that could take place at Camp Nemo in 1996. A static display board showing many of the old camp crests and pictures welcomed everyone to the meeting. What follows is the text of that presentation: This display was used throughout 1996 to showcase the What do you think of when you hear the following: history of Camp Nemo Rain, Mud, Wet Clothes, sun burn, more mud, spe- lunking, flashlights, a little more mud, a 2nd thunder shower, camp fires, no sleep, wet boots, just a little more mud

If you are still confused let me help you. From “the New Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language” we find the following description of the word MUD. Slimy sediment Wet or soft earth Can I be referring to anything other but Mt. Nemo Scout Camp?

In November of this year , our very own Camp Nemo will be 50 years old. To many of us in this room, it is hard to believe that we have reached this milestone.

We are very fortunate in this region to have such a magnificent camp as Nemo. Only a stones throw away 2 panels from the table center piece from Hamilton in the shadow of the Niagara Escarp- ment, Camp Nemo offers so much to each group that On each table there was a folded brochure that gave uses the facility. everyone at the annual meeting an outline of what was going to be happening over the coming year. Your own thoughts of Camp Nemo probably run the gather at your meeting hall before heading out for the gamete. weekend. It’s Saturday morning and the Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Venturers and Rovers have been given To parents, a weekend at Nemo has meant 48 hours of their mission. Camp Nemo, “the Final Frontier.” Your peace and quiet on the home front. There is a small two day mission is to seek out and find every puddle or price to pay for this peace and quiet. This price could patch of mud. To boldly go where no one has gone be- be a ¼ inch of mud everywhere in the back seat of the fore. car. It could be Johnny arriving home with an extra 5 pounds of clothing caused entirely by the mud indis- The mission is a success. Everyone is covered in mud. criminately found everywhere. It could be the cost of Jackets, clothes, body and even hair have Nemo grade distance phone call that you made Sunday evening to A mud caked on. What would you do to be “zestfully” Tide - saying I have the perfect test for your next com- clean? mercial. Imagine no longer. After hours of deliberation and For Leaders, Nemo had provided the opportunity to see planning, poring over blue prints, countless revisions , the “out” in Scouting and the smiles it brings to our on behalf of the anniversary committee I am happy to youth members when they see what the great outdoors unveil, on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of has to offer. However, these smiles will never cure the Mount Nemo Scout Camp the : leaders headache as they wonder - “Where did all this mud come from?” or “How am I going to explain this Acme 2 portable Shower to the parents?” or “Am I ever going to get this building clean?” (At this point in time a 45 gallon drum - complete with shower head, drain and door was uncovered and every- To the kids a weekend at Camp Nemo means memories one enjoyed a good laugh.) of searching out and finding the largest puddle and likely stepping in it. Pillow fights, night hikes, getting This shower will be mass produced in the summer once along in a group and just maybe accidentally on pur- we have registered all trademarks and patents with the pose staying awake all night. government. We plan on having 25 of these showers available for use by all members. These showers come To mark the 50th Anniversary, we are planning on hav- with running hot and cold water (just hook them up ing a very special year. In the interest of time I will tell with hoses that will be supplied.) you that many of the highlights are listed on the special table centre piece. In addition a Anniversary Edition of At the conclusion of the meeting feel free to take a bet- the Scouter’s Dispatch will be coming listing many ter look at this prototype. more details. You will be hearing much more in the months to come But I would like to tell you of one special plan. One of about this shower, the new Anniversary Lodge, the 50th the objectives of the camp anniversary committee is to birthday party, the Anniversary wall. Please join us leave the camp a better place at the conclusion of the over the coming months as we celebrate 50 years of year. We have discussed many ways in which we could great camping at Camp Nemo! do this. We considered adding running water to all of the buildings(complete with flush toilets) but his would just be too expensive. We thought of paving an area in SOUVENIRS the main field to be used as a basketball court or road hockey surface in the good weather and as an outdoor The celebrations of the 50th Anniversary of Camp skating surface in the winter. What about the idea of Nemo was a perfect lead into a full launch of souvenir adding a jungle gym and swing set for every building? items available at Scout House and at various anniversary events. Close your eyes and imagine if you will - you are camping at Nemo for the weekend. It pours with rain all The anniversary logo or crest designed by Bob Miller week long. Thankfully it stops raining just as you was proudly displayed on the souvenir items. The following items were sold during the year: The 10 page special edition also contained

Jumbo corded pen • 15 classic pictures from the 50 years of camping 10 oz. travel mug • over 10 articles highlighting such topics as Flippy Flyers (cloth Frisbee) ∗ Well, Well, Well … - a story of the drinking Metal Dog Tag water at camp.

Sports water bottle ∗ Camp Fire stories - a brief history of build- Crest (logo design) ings lost to fire . T-shirts with the camp crest ∗ Mud! - a look at what the soil of camp is made of . Baseball Caps Over 2,500 items were ordered and sold during the 50th • Pictures of 30 plus crests from the various re- anniversary celebrations. The success of the metal dog gional, district, area, division and group camps tags caught everyone by surprise and the 250 ordered held at Camp Nemo. disappeared very quickly. • 24 short “Did you know?” facts. No doubt you would find one of the anniversary travel mugs proudly holding a leader’s coffee today. CAMP BIRTHDAY PARTY

One of the largest discussions held at anniversary committee meetings was how do we get current and past members involved with a large reunion. After much deliberation it was decided that a large birthday party would be held for all current members to serve as a nice start to the Scouting year and a reunion would be held for adults with the focus on past leaders and past youth members.

On Saturday October 5, 1996 the 50th Anniversary Birthday Party was held. It was hoped that over 250 Dog Tags people would attend and enjoy the festivities. The date was early in the Scouting year and many groups would SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY DISPATCH have just started to meet. Registration came in very slowly but was slowly creeping up to the 250 mark. th In June 1996 a special Camp Nemo 50 Anniversary Then 48 hours before the party registration took off. edition of ‘the Scouter’s Dispatch” was released. The The plans made had to be adjusted at the last minute front page had an artist’s concept drawing of the new and on the fly. It was difficult to estimate the number lodge that would replace Spectator Lodge. of people at the party but some guesses had close to 1000 people there. We do know 960 pieces of corn on the cob were bought with about 6 dozen left over. Thank goodness the fall weather had co-operated and there had not been a heavy frost to damage the corn crop. Even given the good weather most of the local farmers (or stores) could only supply 10 to 20 dozen cobs of corn. Five different farmer/stores eventually sold us their corn for our corn roast. In addition to the corn on the cob, hamburgers and hot Just before Dinner there was a brief ceremony where dogs were cooked on over 15 propane barbecues and the Anniversary Wall (see below for more details) was our gigantic birthday cake made by Heather Martin was unveiled for the first time. The ceremony concluded shared. with the singing of “Happy Birthday” and the candles blown out on the Birthday cake. As darkness fell Bev Carey led everyone in a sing-a- long around the campfire. At the conclusion of the sing-a-long fireworks brightened the sky to bring an end to the birthday celebrations. The Hamilton Spectator had a photographer and re- porter in attendance. On October 9 the Spectator published a large picture of Ted Burns standing next to the camp bell with the Headline Ð Mount Nemo celebration Ð Scouts honour 50th Anniversary of ‘Swamp Nemo’. The article started out with Scout Garth Chap- Birthday Cake - about 16” x 26” man, 12, stating “No matter what time the season, it’s all mud.” A number of other Scouts, leaders and for- During the afternoon of the birthday party there were mer leaders were interviewed for this article. over 25 events for youth members and leaders to enjoy. Many of these events were similar to what you would find at a Cub Fun Day, Victoria Day Weekend or a OPEN HOUSE Beaver Chopperee such as: Mini Golf Fishing Pond Tug of War Horse Back Riding Magic show String Maze Sucker Tree Hay Rides Aerial Runway Bingo Door prizes Popcorn In addition to this Daryl Buckle was there to give a history lesson through his cartoon drawings. For people that wanted to know more about the history of Camp Nemo there was a display inside Confederation Lodge

Invitation from the Open House - 1997

Over 300 past and present Scouter’s were in attendance on June 1, 1997 at the Open House at Camp Nemo. The weather was overcast with intermittent showers just to make sure everyone felt at home. The Open House was a chance for people to see the camp and compare it to their memories from years past. It was also hoped that people would share some of their memories with the “newer” generation. And with any luck some people would met former Scouting friends that they had lost touch with over the years. Cooking area at birthday party - before the rush for dinner - 1996 The day was a tremendous success. The visitor’s regis- ANNIVERSARY WALL ters that was signed by all indicates members from the past and present enjoyed the day. Some visitors indi- One of the major objectives of the celebrations was to cated that their Scouting experience began in the get all youth and adult members a chance to participate. 1930’s. What started out as the “Wall of Fame” during the ini- th tial brainstorming sessions ended up as the Tony Sarson - 1934 - 26 Hamilton Cubs “Anniversary Wall”. Hugh Halley - 1931 - 5th Hamilton Bob Miller with help from Sharon Miller, Lynn Shed- th Glen Tydd - 1930 - 5 Hamilton den, Roger Shedden and Gary Ralph collected the sig- Bill Millar - 1937 - 31st Scouts nature of each registered member in 1996 on a paper maple leaf. These leaves were shrunk in size, coloured st Wilf Pugh - 1936 - 31 Hamilton and laminated for inclusion on one of 6 displays. These Fulton Seunarine - 1933 - 43rd Hamilton displays are now in Anniversary Lodge for all to enjoy. Former leaders and youth members shared hundreds of stories with everyone in attendance. Jim Russell recorded many of them, some of which appear in this book. In addition the 21st Rovers used a video camera to record memories. People met former Scouting friends that they had not seen in years.

As with any open house conversation is the order of the day. To stimulate conversation the following was done:

1. All the old group records (registration information) were taken out to camp so that research could be done to help people remember who had been in their former groups. Photocopies were provided as a memento. 2. Pictures from the last 50 years were on display to bring back memories. 3. History boards of the buildings were provided. Tours were provided to all of the buildings to remind and to “show off” the many changes that have taken place. (All buildings were spruced up the day before with SWAT cleaning teams).

Terry Elop pointing to an Anniversary Wall Plaque - 1999 Research team awaiting the start of the open house - 1997 ANNIVERSARY LODGE The new building was officially opened on Saturday October 24, 1998 - Cub Fun Day, with over 750 people One dream of the Anniversary Committee was to see a in attendance. Dave Wands, President of Hamilton new building replace Spectator Lodge. Plans were Wentworth District Scouts and a member of the Anni- drawn and approved. The estimated cost of the build- versary Committee presided over the ceremony. Ben ing if built by a contractor was in excess of $70,000. In Simpson represented the major donor - The Edith H. order to build the lodge, funding was needed. The Turner Foundation and participated in the ribbon cut- Edith H. Turner Foundation was approached and after a ting. Many other donors were present and were recog- formal presentation a grant was received for $35,000. nized and thanked during the ceremony. This amount was the estimated amount needed for materials. Labour was still needed to build the lodge. For Everyone in attendance had the opportunity to take a the most part volunteer labour was used. Few of these tour of the building. The building is 24 x 60 ft one volunteers has professional experience in construction floor building that will comfortably accommodate 40 but their collective skills and knowledge combined to people. The building consists of a kitchen, 2 youth build a lodge of which we can all be proud. Work done bedrooms and 2 leader bedrooms necessary for privacy by volunteers was recorded in a log on the job site. On with co-ed groups. A separate eating area was main- completion of the building the log indicated that: tained to minimize the disruptions during the day and of course a large mud room is provided. ∗ over 64 people helped on the project ∗ total hours exceeded 2,200 hours ∗ the following people had over 200 hours on the project Ben Boers Rick Elop George Lethbridge Mike Lethbridge Bruce Riddiough Don Spong Dave Wands Interior of Anniversary Lodge - 1998

Anniversary Lodge under construction in front of Ben Simpson representing the Edith H. Turner Founda- Spectator Lodge just prior to it demolition - 1997 tion cutting the ribbon to officially open the building - 1998 Anniversary Lodge would never have been completed • District Committee for Scouting Auxiliaries (In without the generous donations of the following: Memory of Bernice Gordon) Principle Donor • Hamilton Plumbing Supply J.A.T. Plumbing and Heating • Edith H. Turner Foundation • Founding donors • Ontario Plywood Specialities Ltd. • A M Roofing Systems • Weber Architectural Products Inc. • Aldershot Commercial Services • McBride foundation • Battlefield Equipment Rentals • Rotary Club of Hamilton The Royal Bank • H. G. Bertram Foundation • • Blue Circle CBM • Comin Masonry • Georgia Pacific, Canada Ltd. • Golden Windows Ltd. • Kenaidan Contracting Ltd. • Martin & Stewart Contracting • Pellet Tools & Drywall Supplies Ltd. • T. Lloyd Electric • Union Gas Eastern Region employees Charities Fund • Electromart • Nedco • Turkstra Lumber Company Ltd Thank you plaque displayed in Anniversary Lodge Supporting Donors • Active Framing Ltd. • Apollo Concrete Contracting • Brovi Investments Ltd. • DiBattista Forming