Finding Aid of the Camp Sequoyah Collection, PC.7051
Abstract
In 1923, C. Walton Johnson established Camp Sequoyah near Weaverville, North Carolina.
The "camp with a purpose" attracted young men who spent their summer hiking, canoeing,
swimming, horseback riding, and shooting. Spirituality, Indian lore, nature study
and handicrafts were also a part of the camp curriculum. Camp Sequoyah's mission was
to teach young men to "see with their eyes, feel with their hearts, do with their
hands and live together in a spirit of brotherhood" to foster self-reliance and personal
growth. During its 54-year tenure, Camp Sequoyah adjusted its offerings. A shorter
camp during the month of June was available for young women who wanted a short stay
at the start of the summer. The camp closed in 1978 but the friendships and fond memories
live on in its active alumni group.
The Camp Sequoyah Collection contains catalogs, correspondence, brochures, newsletters
rosters and articles.
Descriptive Summary
- Title
- Camp Sequoyah Collection
- Call Number
- PC.7051
- Creator
- Various individuals
- Extent
- 3.010 cubic feet
- Repository
- Western Regional Archives, State Archives of North Carolina
Restrictions on Access & Use
Access Restrictions
Available for research
Use Restrictions
Biographical/Historical
In 1923, C. Walton Johnson established Camp Sequoyah east of Weaverville, North Carolina
near the settlement of Beech. The "camp with a purpose" as Johnson dubbed it, attracted
boys and young men from many states who spent their summer hiking, canoeing, swimming,
horseback riding, and shooting at North Carolina's first private camp for boys. Spirituality,
Indian lore, nature study and handicrafts were also a part of the camp curriculum.
Walton had successfully managed Y.M.C.A. camps in Tennessee, Virginia, and North Carolina
before purchasing the 120-acre forested tract that would welcome summer campers from
1924-1978. He played a role in the development of the camp, building rustic cabins
from logs on the property. Twenty-seven campers arrived the first summer.
Much more than a rugged summer vacation spot, the mission of Camp Sequoyah was to
teach young men to "see with their eyes, feel with their hearts, do with their hands
and live together in a spirit of brotherhood." Self-reliance and personal growth were
desired outcomes.
During its 54-year tenure, Camp Sequoyah adjusted its offerings. A shorter camp during
the month of June was available for girls who wanted a short stay at the start of
the summer. By 1940, boys and girls could attend the pre-season camp. After a few
successful years additional sub-camps were offered such as woodcraft camp, seashore
camp, and canoe camp. In 1957, a separate junior camp was added for 60 boys ages 7
to 11.
In 1951, Camp Tsali was created for "physically strong mature boys" between 15 and
17 who enjoyed "rugged outdoor camping." In addition to nature study and hiking, Tsalimen,
as they were known, honed skills in wood crafting and used them to construct camp
cabins and shelters. Participation was limited to 24 young men.
The camp closed in 1978 but the friendships and fond memories live on in its active
alumni group.
Contents of the Collection
1. Mark U. Wilde-Ramsing Donation
2. David Glasgow Donation
3. Neil Hackworth Donation, 1954
4. Dr. J. Michael Miller Donation, 1972-1978
5. James Kurtts Donation, 1933-1978
- Container Count
- 3 Boxes