Below is text from the very first Camp Dark Waters Brochure, published in 1928.
Up and away, with blanket roll and knapsack; forget lessons and books in the joys of swimming and canoeing. Where shall we go? To the Camp prepared for us by a kind and generous Friend who knows the real sport of camping. Listen and I will tell you the whole story.
The Camp consists of four large sleeping cabins, each provided with double-deck spring beds with thick mattesses; a commodious dining cabin with complete set of tableware for thirty-six people; and a main cabin in which are an assembly room with fireplace, a kitchen, and three bedrooms (the latter each containing two double beds). The kitchen is amply equipped with large refridgerator, stoves, etc. All cabins are thoroughly screened.
The Camp is on a beautiful branch of the Rancocas, one and one half miles from Medford, New Jersey. This situation, on a fifteen acre tract, amid the sheltering shade of mature beech and poplar, combines the advantages of a secluded spot with those of civilization; making possible an abundant supply of fresh vegetables, fruit and tuberculin-tested milk. There is a pure water supply. An efficient doctor is within call. Auto and bus directions will be sent on acceptance of application blanks.
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In front of the camp is a fine place for good swimmers and divers, and nearby a shallow pool for learners. The swimming counselors will give us all the help we need.
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There are four canoes for our use and the canoeing is especially fine on this branch of the stream.
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Tennis and volleyball are made possible by the untiring labor of Medford and Moorestown boys.
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There will be ample oppourtunity for becoming acquainted with birds, plants and trees. There is excellent leadership along this line.
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Long hikes will be a real feature of Camp and some of us know how good bacon and eggs fried on stones taste at the end of the trail. -
Basketry and other craftwork will be taught by a skillfull director.
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Books selected by a competant librarian will be enjoyed in leisure hours.
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There will be all manner of group games, camp-fire stunts and singing.
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The group will divide into working squads for cooking, dishwashing, staightening up camp, wood chopping, and other duties.
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Real live discussion around the camp-fire will add to our fellowship.
A Typical Day in Camp: The counselors and campers will together plan how the days shall be spent; but the following may give a general idea: Setting up excercises. Morning dip. Breakfast. Putting camp in order. Handcraft. Swimming. Dinner. Relaxation and reading. Hiking. Dip in the stream. Supper. Camp-fire stunts. Singing.
Ages Invited: There are no hard and fast rules in regard to the ages admitted; but in a general way this summer camp is intended for Friends (and those affiliated with us) from eleven to sixteen years inclusive.
Rates: Fee for the two weeks in Camp is $20.00. $2.00 are to be paid when notified of acceptance, the balance one week prior to entering camp.