Camp Merrie-Woode Newsletter - Fall 2018

CAMP

MERRIE-WOODE Situated, Celebrated on Fairfield Lake

Fall 2018

Remember, Renew, Rejoice: CMW Celebrates 100 Summers!

Happy Birthday, Merrie-Woode! The summer of 2018 saw Merrie-Woode’s 100th summer come to life, and so many of you joined us at the Centennial Celebration. What a weekend it was!

Camp bustled with Merrie-Woode girls (and boys) from every generation during the weekend of June 22 through June 24. Memories were shared as we came together to celebrate this place that means so much to all of us.

Friday began with dozens of volunteers who leaped into action to get camp ready for the merriment. They worked the registration tent, tended the Stock Shop, answered questions, folded napkins, and stepped in to help throughout the weekend. Thank you, volunteers, for all of your hard work. Much of the weekend’s success was a result of your can-do attitude!

The opening event of the weekend was Friday night’s flag raising ceremony, hosted by long-time Merrie-Woode staff member and trip leader Doug Cameron, Merrie-Woode alumna Pam Pittman Turner, and former Executive Director and alumna Laurie Turner Strayhorn. Once the flags were up, the evening’s entertainment began with

Beth Hassinger, Denice Dunn, Bobby Hassinger, Laurie Turner Strayhorn, and Jim Dunn enjoy the Friday evening events at the Centennial Celebration.

a Bluegrass and BBQ dinner on the waterfront.

Alumnae celebrated with their families while reconnecting with cherished camp friends.

Friday evening continued with a traditional Merrie-Woode campfire, which was kindled by members of the 1979 camp staff. These women worked in ’79 on a volunteer basis when the Merrie-Woode Foundation was young and camp’s future was uncertain, and watching them ignite the fire was a subtle reminder to all who attended that Merrie-Woode’s light is brighter than ever!

As the campfire roared to life, a summer shower rolled into our little valley. In true camp

Continued on page 12

Inside...

Robin McKinney Walker, Kelli Talley, Lindsay Garner Hostetler, Betsy Reese Helms, Tweed Cline Eckhard, Liz Counce Irwin, Nancy Conkle Swann, Jim Dunn, and Denice Dunn at the Centennial Celebration.

Wit’s End....................................Page 2 Alumnae News...........................Page 4 Legendary Luncheon...............Page 14 Centennial Ripple.....................Page 19 Restoring Tajar.........................Page 21 Honoring Our Board Chair......Page 22

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

At Wit’s End...

We hope this newsletter finds you doing well. Autumn has been slow to arrive in the mountains and the leaves have not yet created their colorful backdrop in camp. It has been a challenging fall for many of our Merrie-Woode families with the aggressive hurricane activity, and our hearts go out to all of those caught in the path of hurricanes Florence and Michael. We are grateful to those of you who reached out with concerns for camp when Hurricane Florence came to the Carolinas. We were fortunate to have missed the brunt of the storm, but we continue keep those less fortunate in our prayers.

BOO WHOOP and a CMW WOW! Our Centennial summer season has come and gone, but the memories are etched in our minds. We were thrilled that so many alumnae joined us for this historic weekend marking the 100th summer of camping for young women along Lake Fairfield, under the watchful eye of Old Bald. The Centennial Events Weekend was the grand finale for MerrieWoode and our alumnae and their families.

Generations of campers gathered to Remember, Renew, and Rejoice. Throughout the year there were countless ways to experience these elements, from the Centennial book Camp Merrie-Woode: 100 Years of Following the Gleam, Centennial Ripple, Centennial Campaign, Centennial Archives, to the Centennial Events weekend we shared at camp.

While reminiscing with old friends and new, it was clear we all share a very special bond and love for our place of rarest beauty.

Camp’s impressive Centennial goals would not have been reached without years of thoughtful planning by the Board of Trustees, our energetic staff, and the numerous volunteers assembled to commemorate this milestone in Camp MerrieWoode’s history. We thank each and every one of you for the countless hours on conference calls, weekend meetings, time spent on creative endeavors and endless spreadsheets. We all came together remembering our camp promise to live a life of service. Thank you for giving back to Camp MerrieWoode, our camp which has given so much to all of us.

In September, after the excitement of the Centennial summer, Jim and I received a call to head to Atlanta. We were promoted from parents to grandparents. (Our grandparent names are still to be determined!) On September 19th, our son Bradley and his wife Bri were blessed with a beautiful baby boy (7lb 10oz). We were thrilled to welcome Grayson James Dunn into our family. He is precious, and we can’t wait to spend more time with Grayson this fall and during the holidays. May you all have a happy and safe holiday season.

It is truly a blessing to be a part of the Merrie-Woode family. As we bring this Centennial year to a close, let us all pause to Remember, Renew, and Rejoice.

Chug-A-Wump,

Denice and Jim

Grayson James with proud parents Bri and Bradley Dunn, and grandparents Denice and Jim Dunn

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Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

Staff News

After another busy summer at camp, we are happy to hear from our staff who are busy in the outside world. Mary Virginia Adams is enjoying the start of her student teaching internship in Birmingham in order to complete her degree at Alabama in December. We know many of our staff are enjoying exciting adventures around the globe, and we hope all of you love your varied experiences. We recently connected with Adeline Archibald who is studying in London this semester. She is hoping to land a fundraising/ marketing internship while she is there with the Fight For Sight organization. Perhaps the biggest news about a staff adventure is that Madison Beaver started

Merrie-Woode folks during Parents Weekend at Sewanee this fall

her Peace Corps service in the kingdom of Tonga toward the end of August. She will be teaching English at a school and will receive her school placement in November. Best of luck to you, Madison! Langley Barnes reached out to tell us that she and Lucy Gash had a post-camp visit, which included a trip to see Gussie Smith in Wilmington,

Merrie-Woode staff singing in the rain at the Centennial campfire

NC. After a job well done as Waterfront Director, Mary Grace Bowers transitioned back into her busy life in her final year of nursing school at UVA. We heard that Janie Branch and Natalie Carr are in some of the same classes because they are in the same major at Auburn. They love seeing each other around campus and in classes. Janie is excited because Maggie Hill is her little sister in her sorority! Now that Corinne Foster lives in Cashiers, NC, we get to see quite a bit of her here at camp. Corinne is busy applying to graduate school for next year while working a few part time jobs, including in Merrie-Woode’s Centennial Archives. Corinne and her sister, Courtney Foster attended the Baldaroo Music Festival, which serves as a fundraising event for the Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau and is held at the Inn Site. The World Equestrian Games were held in Tryon, NC this year, and Corinne attended the event dressage with Corinne Driver, Merrie-Woode’s Riding Director. We recently heard that Martha House participated in a 3

week-long boot camp at Tudor Pickering Holt and Co, the investment bank where she will be working next summer, just before returning to Washington & Lee University. We are happy to report that Abby Kuchar is enjoying her new job as the Assistant Technical Director for Theatre in the Park in Raleigh, NC. Abby enjoys working with Nat Conti, the Technical Director for Theatre in the Park, who also served as MerrieWoode’s Technical Director for the past three summers. They have a show that opened on October 5th and then will be busy through the holidays with three Christmas shows. Before starting her college experience at Tulane University, Natalie Pruitt is spending the fall semester

Kit Smith, Mary Stephen Straske, Kelli Talley, and Grace Looney at the Centennial

Corinne Foster greeting guests during the Centennial

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

Staff News cont. studying abroad in Paris. She will move to New Orleans to start school at Tulane in January.

Hannah Rawles recently started her first semester at College of Charleston as a Junior, where she is majoring in Communications.

When not at school, Hannah is busy with her two part-time jobs at Sephora and Madewell. She runs her Sephora store’s social media accounts, as well as her own blog, The Cleansed Review at www.thecleansedreview. com. After a visit to camp for the Centennial and many travels around Europe this summer, Cole Reifsnider is settling into her new job at Oracle Corporation in Washington, D.C. Speaking of D.C., Carter Rice reached out to tell us that she is enjoying her new job as the Management Apprentice at Studio Theatre in D.C. She is thankful to the

Baker Sanders visiting Anna November at Georgetown University this fall

Merrie-Woode D.C. community, especially Alex Ervin, who picked her up from the airport and helped her get settled in her new apartment! Merrie-Woode friends are the best, for sure.

Carter is excited to stage manage for a reading of a new play called Sisterly that was originally developed at UNC Chapel Hill.

Anna November visiting Eden Price at Dartmouth College this fall

The news from Dartmouth College is that in her first semester as a student, Margaret Shufflebarger made the table tennis team! She will be walking on the team for the fall and winter. Best of luck, Margaret!

Thank you, Staff, for staying in touch. We can’t wait to see you on the shores of Lake Fairfield in 2019!

Alumnae News

We are so grateful to our Merrie-Woode alumnae for keeping us up-to-date about their adventures far and wide!

Kate Manos Brown (0415) shared that over the past year she started a new job and officially moved to Statesboro, GA. Stewart and Laura Shelby Dameron Dalton (04-14) have a new black lab puppy named Dammie. What a cutie, and we love her name! Sarah T. Davis (01-15) recently visited Italy, where she met up with her sister, Chandler Davis (02-18) for

Captains Libby Carter (10-present) and Elizabeth Keenan Thompson (76-81) with their Would-Be Hat, Green Cone.

some adventures before traveling on to Ireland. Lucy Dorris (9608) of Atlanta, GA was accepted 4

into the National Association of Professional Child Photographers (NAPCP). Check out her recent work at www.lucydorrisphoto. com. Savannah Duan (04-09) is currently serving as an Officer in the United States Army in the rank of 1st Lieutenant. She is stationed in Fort Drum, NY with the 10th Mountain Division, where she serves as a Company Executive Officer. She will be deploying in the next few months to Afghanistan. Our thoughts and prayers go with you, Savannah!

Thank you for your service to

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

Lucy Dorris (96-08) has been inducted into the National Association of Professional Child Photographers

our country. Sarah Anne Evans (07-17) started her freshman year at the University of Denver this fall. She plans to major in music composition. Rachel Garrett (02-16) moved to Jackson, WY this summer. She is teaching high school math and helping run the experiential education program at Jackson Hole Community School. Camper Lily Marvin is a student there, so they get to see each other every day! Rachel has been putting her Merrie-Woode mountaineering skills to good use while playing in the Grand Teton National Park - hiking, climbing, summiting the Grand, and soon to be skiing. Jennifer Glasse (97-04) has had a busy year in Chicago! After appearing

Future CMW campers Bea Camponelli, daughter of Sallie Reeves Campanelli (9206), with Helen Glassick, daughter of Pattie Gabbert Glassick (97-06), and Eleanor Estopinal, daughter of Carolyn Gabbert Estopinal (97-05) on the Boathouse steps.

in the world premiere production of Hang Man at the Gift Theatre Company, she earned her Equity card, becoming a member of the union representing American actors and stage managers. She was also asked to join the Gift Theatre Company as an ensemble member. This winter she will appear in their production of Doubt which will perform at Steppenwolf, one of the most distinguished regional theatres in the country. Jennifer will also be filming a new show appearing on Showtime, The Chi. Break a leg on all of your exciting projects this year,

Alex Swartsel (90-92) and Stephanie Blessey Lilley (76-83) at a Teach For America dinner in Washington, D.C.

Jennifer! Stephanie Blessey Lilley (76-83) hosted Rowanne McIntyre McKnight (8393) and her daughter, Walker McKnight (09-17), during a spring trip to Washington, D.C. The McKnights also visited with Dorothy Moss Williams (83-90) and enjoyed a tour of the National Portrait Gallery, where Dorothy is a curator of painting and sculpture. Later this fall, Stephanie connected with fellow CMW alumna Alex 5

Swartsel (90-92) at a Teach For America dinner in Washington, D.C. Mark and Landis Carey Knee (92-05) moved from DC to Richmond in July, where they have connected with CMW alumnae Corbin Dunlap Page (94-05), Perry Ellis Lopez (98-10), and Carolyn Gabbert Estopinal (97-05). Keiko LeMon (95-09) will be wrapping up her time on tour with Cirque du Solei’s production of Totem in January. She will then be headed to Montreal to open Cirque’s new production of Alegria: The Return of an Icon as the head of props. After a busy summer of work at Party Reflections in Charlotte, including an allimportant assignment supplying the rentals for the Merrie-Woode Centennial weekend, Kathryn Meyer (85-01) took a bit of time off and traveled to Iceland and Ireland with friends. While in Iceland, they chased rainbows, explored waterfalls, hiked up mountains, took a boat tour of icebergs, and walked along the black sand beaches. After all of that activity, they rejuvenated in the Blue Lagoon and searched

Sisters Elly Straske (03-15), Mary Stephen Straske (06-present), and Davis Straske (04-17)

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

Alumnae News cont.

Betsy Hamilton Verner (76-90), Holly Pierce Ambler (80-96), and Robin McKinney Walker (89-present) after a paddling trip down the Nantahala River

for the Northern Lights (with no luck). They continued on to Ireland, drove along the Ring of Kerry, and visited an Irish friend in Baltimore, where they might have had a pint or two! AnneWorley Bauknight Moelter (90-98) and her husband, Mike, recently opened a third location of Movement Climbing and Fitness in the River North Art District (RiNo) of Denver. The new facility is 40,000 square feet, with over 250 boulder problems to suit every level and

style of climber. You can see the many activities they offer and view the new facility at www.movementboulder.com.

Nicolette Quintero (15), former head of camp’s dance program, recently appeared as a company member in Orlando Shakespeare Theatre’s production of In the Heights by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Emily Rich (00-14) graduated from School of the Art Institute of Chicago with an MFA in Writing. She is now an instructor at SAIC in the writing department, in addition to being a professional dog walker and after school theater teacher. She also adopted a dog named Dot. Liv Rooth (90-00) is appearing in the Broadway cast of Aaron Sorkin’s adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird at Lincoln Center.

Palmer Smith (02-15) writes that she is working for two real estate attorneys in NYC as a paralegal and applying to

both law school and writing MFA programs for next fall!

She has been able to see Deane Pless (05-14) a bunch, and they always have a great time catching up. This past summer she wrote a short story while taking a class at Columbia about playing tetherball at CMW. She says it was really special to reminisce on such a wonderful place and its immense impact.

Betsy Hamilton Verner (7690), Holly Pierce Ambler (80-96), and Robin McKinney Walker (89-present) met up for a weekend of paddling on the Tuck Gorge and the Nantahala this September. They enjoyed getting back on the river and spending time at the NOC. While visiting schools in Washington D.C., Jane Wilde (09-present) and her mother, Mary Leland Davenport Hutchison (76-82), enjoyed a visit with Dorothy Moss Williams (83-90).

CMW Weddings and Engagements

Matt and Carrie Coker Kuykendall (96-15)

Many congratulations to our Merrie-Woode alumnae who celebrated engagements and weddings this season! Over Memorial Day weekend, Carrie Coker (96-15) married Matt Kuykendall at her family’s home in Bluffton, SC. Her three sisters, Carter Coker Simpson (92-08), Eliza Coker (98-09), and Joanie Coker (01-10), and friends Libby Page Sibley (9706) and Elizabeth Harrison Carrington (00-09) served 6

as her bridesmaids. Lots of Merrie-Woode alumnae were also on hand to celebrate the happy couple, including mother of the bride, Sylvia Sparkman Coker (69-72) and grandmother of the bride, Maria Trosdal Sparkman (45-48), as well as aunt Lucy Sparkman Crosswell (74-81) and cousins Maria Crosswell (06-13) and Ellie Crosswell (11-16). Maddie Davis (04-14) married Jeremy Moore on October 14, 2017 in

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

Andrew and Sara Huffman Schmidt (95-12)

Jeremy and Maddie Davis Moore (04-14)

Birmingham, Alabama, where she is now living and working as a humanitarian and wedding photographer. Kaley Garner (02-12) is engaged to marry Caleb Lukas on February 16, 2019. Caleb proposed at sunset on the cliffs of Etretat,

honor, Leigh Huffman (0010) and Sarah Logan (01-12), bridesmaid Lindsay Garner Hostetler (93-present), and guests Betsy Reese Helms (89-present), Denice Dunn (99-present), Emily Rich (0014), Gwen Graham (72-79), and Katie Butler Murphy (96-99) all joined in celebrating the new Mr. and Mrs. Schmidt. Mary Parke McEachran (01-11) married Hanes Dunn on May 5, 2018 in Louisa, VA. CMW alumna Lucy Curran (0107) was in the wedding party, and alumnae Frances Taylor McEachran (75-76), Elizabeth Bean (00-10), Hillary Hardy (00-10), Emma Coogan (01-04) and Frances Stone Edge (0005), cousin of the groom, were in attendance. Kara Leigh Pulley

John and Nancy Ratcliffe Currin (98-03)

(01-15) is engaged to Mark McPoland. They are planning a wedding in Greenville, SC in April 2019. Nancy Ratcliffe (98-03) married John Currin on August 11, 2018 at The Farm at the Old Edwards Inn in Highlands, NC. Mother of the bride, Anne Tomlinson Ratcliffe (72-73) and bridesmaids, Anne Carroll Ratcliffe (98-05), Sallie Ratcliffe (09-17), and Ashton Ratcliffe Molster (0211), are all CMW alumnae.

Also in attendance to celebrate the newlyweds was Nancy’s best friend from camp, Anne

Caleb Lukas and Kaley Garner (02-12)

Tyler and Kate Manos Brown (04-15) with their family.

France this summer. Sara Huffman (95-12) married Andrew Schmidt on September 15, 2018 in the Merrie-Woode Chapel. Following the wedding ceremony, they celebrated with family and friends at Lonesome Valley, including many CMW alumnae and staff. Maids of

Douglas Sessoms Gangwer (97-03). Kate Manos (04-15) married the love of her life, Tyler Brown, on March 24, 2018. They were surrounded and celebrated by friends and family, many of whom are CMW alumnae, including mother of the bride Laura Northen Manos (70-74) and grandmother of the

Hanes and Mary Parke McEachran Dunn (01-11)

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Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

CMW Weddings and Engagements cont. bride, Tinsley Orr Northen (47-57), daughter of Fritz and Augusta Orr. Tinsley’s sisters, Polly Orr Bates (52-59) and Cille Orr Morrison (54-61), as well as their daughters, Tinsley Bates Spessard (78-81) and Mimi Morrison Harrison (84-95), were all present for the ceremony and celebration.

Kate’s “something old” was her Merrie-Woode bracelet, which was also her mother’s bracelet, and her “something borrowed” was Augusta Orr’s handkerchief. We know these beautiful family heirlooms brought a special note to your wedding day, Kate! On August 11, 2018, Grace Thorington (98-10) married Dougie Coffed in the Merrie-Woode Chapel.

A reception followed on the waterfall field with many CMW alumnae in attendance, including members of the wedding party Adria Thorington Tapp (98-03), McKenzie Davis-Martin (07-11), Maria Schmitt (98-present), Perry Ellis Lopez (98-10), and Egen Thorington Arnold (01-06).

Jim (02-present) and Denice Dunn (99-present) gave the

Grace Thorington Coffed (98-10) with Merrie-Woode friends at her wedding

blessing at the reception, where they celebrated with other CMW alumnae and friends Alden Denny (9808), Josh (08-11) and Betsy Reese Helms (89-present), Julie Griggs Newton (88-17), Norris Clay Morrison (99-01), Courtney Dwight Broun (9800), Caroline Dwight (98-01), Laurie Easterwood Smith (0117), Audrey Dyer Hall (95-09), and Katie Drew Clay Rhett (00). Alumna Amanda Werner

Amanda Werner (95-07) and fiancé Stephen Jessup

(95-07) is engaged to be married to fiancé Stephen Jessup. The wedding will take place in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on February 2, 2019. Sister and alumna Jessica Werner Moskowitz (94-03) will be Matron of Honor.

Amanda enjoyed attending the Centennial Celebration in June and reconnecting with old camp friends! Margaret Cheatham Williams (98-07) married Frank Driscoll in Charlotte, NC on September 15, 2018. Many CMW alumnae joined in the celebration, including mother of the bride, Margaret Williams Williams (71-75), and sister of the bride, Eleanor Williams 8

Margaret Cheatham Williams Driscoll (98-07)

(09-present), as well as family and friends, Connor Williams (01-11), Marion Williams (0207), Rush Williams (95-00), Elizabeth Williams (02-12), Caroline Williams (97-02), Boo Tyler Kennedy (72-80), Scottie Springer (98-12), Missy Underwood Miller (73), and Liza Wooten (01-07). Laura Wyllie (95-09) married Mark Ratliff on July 21, 2018 at the Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo, FL. The Graham family has many CMW alumnae, a number of whom were on hand to celebrate with Laura and Mark,

Laura Wyllie Ratliff (95-09) with family Alison Martinez Allen (99-10), Suzanne Graham Gibson (76-81), Cissy Graham McCullough (73-78), Cynthia Graham Gordon (66-72), Katie Martinez (0214), Kay Gordon (99-13), Beth Graham Martinez (68-74), and Carol Graham Wyllie (62-70)

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

CMW Weddings and Engagements cont. including mother of the bride Carol Graham Wyllie (62-70), Katie Martinez (02-14), Alison Martinez Allen (99-10), Beth Graham Martinez (68-74), Kay Gordon (99-13), Cynthia Graham Gordon (66-72), Cissy Graham McCullough (73-78), Kendall Graham (0414), Suzanne Graham Gibson (76-81), and Gwen Graham (72-79). Charlotte Young (98-

Robert and Charlotte Young Henry (98-09)

09) married Robert Henry on October 6, 2018 in New Orleans, LA. Many CMW alumnae

friends attended the ceremony and celebration, including Bess Young Meeks (98-09), Sophia Bruton (09-present), Clare Bruton (12-present), Amy Nusbaum (99-11), Evie Bories (03-11), Mathilde Semmes (98-06), and Mathilde Villere Currence (82-87). Best wishes to all of the happy couples!

CMW Births

With great excitement, we share the joy of these Merrie-Woode families who recently welcomed new babies into the world. Lauren Norton Andrews (97-09) is expecting a daughter in March 2019. Sam and Meg Roach Booth (9000) welcomed their third child, Paul Meachan Booth, on July 22, 2018. He weighed 9 lbs, 2 oz., and is already adored by his big sisters, Libby and Alice.

Lilly Brantley, daughter of Drew Brantley (02-09)

Paul Meachan Booth, son of Meg Roach Booth (90-00).

It’s a Merrie-Woode girl for Drew Brantley (02-09) and his wife, Elizabeth. They welcomed Elizabeth “Lilly” Grace Brantley into the world on September 20, 2018. She weighed 7 lbs,

1 oz. Elizabeth Harrison Carrington (00-09) welcomed a new baby girl in December 2017.

Elizabeth “Libby” Carrington is named after her mother and grandmother - both CMW alumnae! We’re looking forward to Libby carrying on the MerrieWoode tradition as a thirdgeneration camper. Jimmy and Calene Wertymer Chambers (00-09) welcomed new baby, Evelyn Harper Chambers, on January 29, 2018. Bradley (0612) and Bri Ratte Dunn (13) are overjoyed by the birth of 9

Evelyn Harper Chambers, daughter of Calene Wertymer Chambers (00-09).

Grayson James Dunn, son of Bradley (0612) and Bri Ratte Dunn (13).

their first child, Grayson James Dunn, on September 19, 2018.

Proud Merrie-Woode directors and new grandparents, Denice (99-present) and Jim Dunn

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

Audrey Ann Fogarty, daughter of Juliet Gablehouse Fogarty (91-93)

(02-present), as well as brother and sister-in-law Kelsey and Tyler Dunn (06-09), were on hand to greet baby Grayson when he made his debut in Atlanta.

Juliet Gablehouse Fogarty (9193) and her husband Brennan Fogarty welcomed future MerrieWoode girl, Audrey Ann Fogarty, into the world! After going into labor on Labor Day, Audrey was born September 5, 2017. She weighed 7 lbs and measured 20 inches. Travers and Caroline

Gadsden, Juliette, and Brigitte Emmaline Foster, children of Caroline McKinney Foster (92-97)

William Knight Halloran, son of Lee Hadlow Halloran (91-00)

McKinney Foster (92-97) have a new future camper! Brigitte Emmaline Foster was born on August 6, 2018 weighing 8 lbs, 7 oz and measuring 20.5 inches.

Her older siblings, Juliette and Gadsden, are very happy to have a new baby sister. Molly Davis Foukal (98-05) and husband Nick are expecting a baby girl this spring. They recently moved to Cape Cod, MA. David and Lee Hadlow Halloran (91-00) welcomed their son, William Knight Halloran, on August 12, 2018, weighing 8 lbs, 12 oz. Big brothers, James and Charlie, are so happy to have Will as another playmate! Tucker and Franny Couch Hurt (97-06) were thrilled to meet their son, Robert Blakely Hurt, a few weeks early on September 15, 2018. Bo weighed 6.5 lbs and measured 19.5 inches. Mark and Landis Carey Knee (92-

Barksdale “Dale” Rhodes Knee and Charles “Charlie” Bowen Knee, sons of Landis Carey Knee (92-05)

05) had identical twin boys, Barksdale Rhodes Knee and Charles Bowen Knee, better known as Dale and Charlie, on August 31, 2018. Kyle and Sarah Jo Trimble Luby (9705) are expecting their first child in February 2019! Sarah Jo’s parents and former MerrieWoode Board members, Jay and Mary Jane Scott Trimble (61-72), are very excited about their future grandchild. Ginny Hendley Rushing (94-03) and husband, Dalton, welcomed their second child, John Gatlin Rushing, in July 2018. Big sister, Georgia Grace, was very excited to meet him! Christopher and Chelsea Eubank Smith (99-01) are expecting their first child.

Chelsea’s mom, Linda Siefried, tells us she is thrilled about her grandchild. Congratulations to all of these wonderful families!

In Memoriam Jody Shartle Anderson (1930 – 2018)

Merrie-Woode lost one its most gregarious alumnae when Joanne “Jody” Shartle Anderson (42-46) died in her Arizona home on September 22, 2018. Grandmother of young alumnae Hannah Curtis (07-present) and Lucy Curtis

(09-17), Jody continued to lead a life of high adventure following five spirited years at Camp Merrie-Woode in the 1940s.

Her daughter, Jane Anderson Curtis, reflected recently that “CMW was so special to mom – she arrived as a sickly 12 year old in the summer of 1942, having had rheumatic 10

fever at age 10 resulting in a heart murmur, and she spent part of the winter recuperating in the dry climate of Arizona. When she arrived at camp with her sister, Sarah, she could not pass the swim test because she was too weak. At camp she learned to swim and then some, and it helped her get stronger. She also

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

Jody Shartle Anderson (42-46)

learned to sing in choir and to weave, and these three hobbies formed the backbone of her adult life. When Bill and I chose to send our girls to Merrie-Woode, it meant a lot to Mom, stirring up memories of the view of Old Bald, the order and names of all of the front line cabins, fun moments with her best camp pal, Edith Fitzhugh Camp of Louisville, and the words to every single camp song - these memories stayed with her to the very end. Hannah came with me in August to see her, and I have a few fantastic short videos of Hannah and Mom sitting up and singing and laughing!”

Following graduation from Chatham Hall in Virginia and Smith College, Jody put her love of the outdoors to work at the A Bar A Ranch in Encampment, Wyoming in the summers and Rancho de los Caballeros in Wickenburg, Arizona in the winters. Jody was lured to outdoor adventure the rest of her life actively pursuing horseback riding, fly fishing, camping, skiing, hiking, tennis, and masters swim competition well into her 80s. Jody’s devotion to the outdoors connected her to a number of worthy conservation efforts throughout her life, including supporting

the Hassayampa River Preserve in Wickenburg, Arizona, and volunteering annually with the Audubon Bird Count.

Denice remembers Jody as “someone who remained the ultimate Merrie-Woode Girl throughout her long and productive life. Jody was a steady contributor to all aspects of Merrie-Woode’s success, including addressing our campers with two inspiring guest sermons at Chapel during the summers of 2009 and 2015 and offering financial support through the annual fund, capital campaigns, and even as a participant in the Kindred Spirit planned giving program. She will be missed.”

Mildred Cobb Carr (1930 – 2018)

Together the MerrieWoode family mourns the loss of alumna Mildred “Millie” Cobb Carr (45-46), who passed away on August 18, 2018 in her home surrounded by her two children.

Millie was born in Goldsboro, NC, the eldest daughter of four children of Dr. Donnell Borden Cobb and Sara Elizabeth Cobb.

She graduated from Goldsboro High School, attended Saint Mary’s College in Raleigh, NC, and in 1953 graduated from Finch College in New York City.

During her childhood, she spent several summers at MerrieWoode, which she recalled with great joy. She especially delighted in sharing the MerrieWoode connection with her daughter, granddaughter, and cousin.

In 1957, Millie married Austin Heaton Carr, Jr., who predeceased her in 2016. They made their home in WinstonSalem, where Millie was an active participant in many civic 11

and social societies including the Garden Club of America, the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America of North Carolina, The Debutante Committee of Winston-Salem, Old Town Club, and the Coral Bay Club in Morehead City.

She was also a member of Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church.

Millie is survived by her children, Laura Noell Carr (73) and Donnell Borden Carr, as well as two additional Merrie-Woode alumnae, granddaughter Ella Carr (08-15) and cousin, Mary Ann Borden (09-17), and many devoted family members and friends.

Ann Haas Cox (1934 – 2018)

The Merrie-Woode family is greatly saddened by the loss of former staff member Ann Haas Cox (55-57), who passed away on March 17, 2018 in Fairhope, AL. Ann was the riflery instructor at Merrie-Woode during the summers of 1955 – 1957.

Ann was born in 1934 in Mobile, Alabama, and attended Visitation Academy, Bishop Toolen Catholic High School for Girls, and Murphy High School.

She graduated in 1956 from the University of Alabama, where she was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. Ann married her husband Emmett Ripley “Rip” Cox in 1964 at St. Joseph’s Chapel on the grounds of Spring Hill College, and they later established their home in Mobile. While raising her children, Ann was involved with many charitable service organizations, including the Junior League of Mobile and the Art Patrons League. Ann was also a member of the Maids of Mirth Mardi Gras society.

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

In Memoriam cont.

She is survived by her husband, Emmett Ripley “Rip” Cox, Senior Judge of the 11th Circuit Court of Appeal, son, John Haas Cox, and daughter, Catherine Cox Jouet, as well as Merrie-Woode alumna and granddaughter, Lila Caroline Cox (16) and many beloved family members and friends.

Condolences:

The Merrie-Woode family offers its condolences to

Carla Hulsey Simmons (5462), alumna and former Board Chair, on the loss of her husband, Thomas “Tommy” Russell Simmons II, on May 17, 2018.

The family honored Tommy with a private memorial service at the First Christian Church in Jasper, Alabama on May 20, 2018, followed by a celebration of Tommy’s life at the Simmons home. We extend our deepest sympathy to Carla, her daughters

Mary Simmons Evans (82-86) and Lee Douglass Simmons Christoferson (88-00), and granddaughter, Mary Douglass Evans (11-present) on the loss of their beloved husband, father, and grandfather.

Remember, Renew, Rejoice: CMW Celebrates 100 Summers! cont.

Fritz Orr III and Annie Wortham take the flame out on the lake in Hugh Caldwell’s restored canoe, after Friday evening’s campfire.

fashion, a little foul weather didn’t stop the party! Campers of all ages continued to sing around the campfire and enjoy each other’s company through the downpour, not letting the rain stop them. Raincoats went on, umbrellas were opened,

and the singing continued. As the final song was sung, Annie Wortham Webre took the torch, symbolizing the spirit of MerrieWoode, back to the Lady of the Lake. As Annie was paddled by Fritz Orr III to the center of the lake in Hugh Caldwell’s restored red canoe, the crowd crossed their hands and circled up on the swim dock for Taps. The view of the lake was especially lovely with a vibrant rainbow stretching across Little Bald and hundreds of lit candles floating through the lily pads, all carrying well wishes for the next 100 years of camping on the shores of Lake Fairfield.

As if Friday evening did not offer enough fellowship and fun, Merrie-Woode opened its gates bright and early to visitors on Saturday morning. The day commenced with a dedication of the refurbished camp bell and the ribbon cutting of the Centennial Archives. While the Legendary Luncheon got underway, honoring Merrie-Woode girls 12

Kathryn Meyer and Emily Pittman Funderburk, Centennial Volunteer Coordinator, enjoy the festivities.

from the 1930s through the 1950s, Merrie-Woode friends and alumnae were treated to traditional camp activities and a gourmet picnic lunch. MerrieWoode staff members facilitated free swim and free boats, kickball on the landsports field, arts &

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

CMW’s 100th birthday cake at the Saturday evening event

crafts, and the dam swim, lake trail walks, as well as multiple hikes up Old Bald. A big shout out goes to all of our staff for the passion and commitment you put into the weekend. So many of

our guests’ happy memories from the weekend are possible because of your unwavering dedication to Merrie-Woode!

Just when it seemed that the weekend could not get any better, Saturday evening’s party was just getting started!

What could be more perfect than spending a few hours with generations of Merrie-Woode friends on a warm, summer night? The tent, positioned perfectly at the top of the hill at the old Fairfield Inn site, was filled with gorgeous flowers and delicious food.

The music, furnished by The Voltage Brothers, kept the crowd dancing through the night, and the fireworks display over Lake Fairfield allowed the crowd a moment of calm to reflect on our appreciation for all that Merrie-

Henri Dibrell Brown brings the Spirit of Merrie-Woode into the Centennial Campfire.

Woode has added to our lives.

There is no doubt that the entire weekend was the culmination of 100 years of love, commitment, faith, and drive on the part of all who have loved Merrie-Woode and given it their best. As we commemorate this significant time in MerrieWoode’s history, we give thanks to everyone who attended the Centennial Celebration.

Flicker of the Centennial Campfire By: Gay O’Neal Abbott (Rewritten after CMW Centennial Celebration, with apologies to the original author)

The flicker of the campfire, Dark clouds in the sky, ‘79 & ‘80 staffers, In our whites and our ties,

So give us the light of the campfire, In the pouring rain, Singing with our old friends, We’re so glad that we came,

A place where we all gathered, Remembering simpler times, A place where all our troubles, Were always left behind,

Love is where you find it, And we found it here, So give us the rain and the campfire, And the songs we love to hear.

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Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

2019 CMW Mother & Daughter Weekend Join us for the 5th annual CMW Mother & Daughter Weekend this spring!

Calling all alumnae of every age to join us for a fun filled weekend at Merrie-Woode!

If you miss staying in cabins along the shores of Lake Fairfield and gathering by the campfire roasting s’mores with friends, then this is the weekend for you.

Friday, May 3 – Sunday, May 5, 2019 The weekend will be full of a wide range of activities geared towards mothers and daughters of all ages. You’re never too old for Merrie-Woode’s traditional programming including a hike up Old Bald, fun on the waterfront, Evening Program, and Chapel. $600 per Mother/Daughter pair, $120 per additional daughter Fees include all meals, cabin lodging, and activities.

This event is designed for Merrie-Woode girls of all camp generations and their moms or daughters.

The only requirement is that one person in your party must be a CMW alumna or current camper.

Sign up early! Space is limited to 100 people. Reserve your spot today on the CMW website! www.merriewoode.com/camp-programs/off-season-programming/

A Legendary Luncheon

Looking back over the past 100 summers of Camp Merrie-Woode, the campers of the 1930s, 40s, and 50s stand out as a remarkable group of women whose resolute and adventurous spirits embody the true nature of a MerrieWoode girl. The alumnae of this era attended Camp during the tenure of Dammie Day, as well as Fritz and Augusta Orr, and together with these early directors, they created many of the distinctive camp traditions that continue to the present day. When the Merrie-Woode

Beautiful garlands designed by Centennial Décor Committee Chairs Elizabeth Simpson Poynor and Boo Tyler Kennedy adorn the tables at the Legendary Luncheon.

Foundation formed in 1978, these women stepped forward and stood side by side with Hugh Caldwell to ensure that Camp would remain open for their daughters and granddaughters.

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Their determination and devotion to Merrie-Woode make them a unique and significant group in the history of Camp.

As a tribute to the many sacrifices they made in order to ensure MerrieWoode’s continued operation, the alumnae of the 1930s, 40s, and 50s were honored with a special Legendary Luncheon on the Saturday of the Centennial Events weekend. Chaired by alumna, parent, and former Board member Sylvia Sparkman Coker, the Legendary Luncheon incorporated treasured readings,

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

songs, and story telling that captured the atmosphere of Camp during the early part of its first century. Following the dedication and ceremonial ribbon cutting of the Centennial Archives, the alumnae guests of the Legendary Luncheon gathered on the porch of Castle for reunion and fellowship. As they reminisced about their camper years, they perused a selection of historic photographs displayed in window panes salvaged from the original Castle building. Each alumna received a Centennial special edition Merrie-Woode tie embroidered with “100” to mark the occasion.

When the alumnae entered Castle to take their seats, they were greeted with a beautiful setting of green garlands adorning the long tables, flanked by magnificent arrangements of greenery and hydrangea blooms on the stone fireplaces. Sylvia welcomed all of the guests and thanked them for their numerous contributions to Merrie-Woode. Alumna Sharon Bleakley Ansley gave a moving opening prayer expressing the gratitude of all gathered for the blessings that Merrie-Woode had bestowed upon their lives. The alumnae joined together in singing the luncheon prayer that campers sing in the Dining Hall to the present day, “For health and strength and daily food, we give Thee thanks O Lord. Amen.”

Recreating the experience of a Sunday Dinner at Camp, the ladies dined on fried chicken, fingerling potato salad, green beans, heirloom tomatoes, and

Anna Ferguson Duff accompanied the Legendary Luncheon guests singing their favorite Merrie-Woode songs.

buttermilk pie. Young alumnae volunteers, wearing recreations of the early camp uniform of middies and bloomers, served the guests.

Former Board Chair and alumna, Mary Jane Scott Trimble, led a wonderful panel discussion featuring stories from four extraordinary alumnae, Virginia Neal Almand, Ginger Somerville Hallock, Carla Hulsey Simmons, and Barry “Beanie” Lohmeyer Stout.

Laughter rang out through the Castle rafters as the panelists regaled the guests with tales of camp pranks, memorable trips, Hugh’s antics, and many other exploits from their camper years. With all feeling jovial at hearing these recollections, the guests enthusiastically sang a selection of favorite songs, including “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “Chug-AWump,” accompanied beautifully on the piano by alumna Anna Ferguson Duff. Maria “Carter” Trosdal Sparkman, mother of Sylvia Sparkman Coker, and grandmother of four MerrieWoode alumnae, offered a reading of a poem from an early edition of the Ripple.

A surprise announcement from Executive Directors, 15

Denice and Jim Dunn, brought a standing ovation from the gathered alumnae. MerrieWoode’s Centennial Campaign successfully raised the funds to establish the first Endowment in the history of Camp. A long-anticipated goal of the Foundation, the new MerrieWoode Endowment honoring former Board Chairs will now serve as a permanent foundation ensuring Camp’s financial security for the next century.

What a legacy to build upon the efforts and achievements of the legendary alumnae gathered on this special anniversary!

The former Board Chairs were invited to the stage for a round of applause honoring their dedication and achievements.

The Legendary Luncheon proved to be a highlight of the Centennial Events weekend for the cherished alumnae whose determination and strength of character embody the MerrieWoode spirit and inspire all generations of campers who follow them. We thank these alumnae for their many contributions to Camp MerrieWoode and for the legacy that they have created.

Legendary Luncheon panelists Virginia Neal Almand, Mary Jane Scott Trimble, Carla Hulsey Simmons, Barry “Beanie” Lohmeyer Stout, and Ginger Somerville Hallock entertained guests with hilarious stories from their camper years.

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

Centennial Chapel – A Grateful Gathering

The capstone moment of the Centennial Events weekend concluded on a postcard perfect Sunday morning, when the Merrie-Woode family gathered together in Chapel for a worship service as the finale of the 100th anniversary weekend. After a weekend of reunion with Camp friends, reliving the excitement of camper days during Saturday activities and celebrating with a Saturday evening gala and fireworks, the alumnae gathered together for a final moment of solemn reflection and joyful thanksgiving for the many gifts that Camp Merrie-Woode had bestowed upon them and their loved ones over the past century.

Alumna Jill Crawford accompanies the Centennial Choir, led by Julie Harrower Diaz, during the Centennial Chapel service.

Hundreds of alumnae, many dressed in their Sunday whites, arrived at Chapel before the beginning of the service to take in the majestic scenery of the Chapel and its peaceful surroundings. With Old Bald standing tall in the distance and sunlight shimmering on the surface of Lake Fairfield, Jim Dunn called everyone to worship, and alumnae of all generations – grandmothers, mothers, daughters, cousins,

The Merrie-Woode family gathered for the Centennial Chapel service on Sunday morning.

and sisters, along with loyal husbands, fathers, brothers, and friends – took their seats beneath the trees. The graceful notes of flute and cello set a tone of quiet contemplation as the worship service began. Two extraordinary musicians, flautist Jill Crawford and cellist Andres Diaz, brought their respective talents into perfect harmony during the Beethoven duet that opened the service.

Denice Dunn shared a prayer in honor of the Centennial, followed by a responsive reading of Psalm 121, “Lift thine eyes to the hills,” a frequent passage read during Merrie-Woode Chapel services. A Centennial Choir of thirteen exceptional voices, led by Julie Harrower Diaz, performed the Camp Hymn, with accompaniment by Jill Crawford on flute. An Old Testament reading from Deuteronomy and a New Testament reading from Matthew introduced the themes of John Brantley’s sermon, A Place of Rarest Physical and Spiritual Beauty. As the MerrieWoode family contemplated these sacred words, world renowned cellist, Andres Diaz, 16

performed Bach’s Prelude from 1st Suite for Solo Cello in memory of former executive director, Hugh Caldwell. Hugh’s love of Chamber music inspired him to create a special trust in his will to fund Chamber music performances at Camp, which has now become the Hugh Caldwell Chamber Music Endowment. Andres’ performance in Hugh’s memory was the first piece presented under the banner of the new endowment.

John Brantley encourages the Merrie-Woode family to keep Dammie’s vision alive by shining their inner lights.

Opening his sermon with a passage from the Centennial Book, John transported everyone back to the moment when Dammie first stood on the shore of Lake Fairfield envisioning the camp that would take shape there. Dammie knew it was a hallowed ground, a spiritually rich place of immense physical beauty. John posed the question of how to keep Dammie’s vision alive for another century. He offered that the best way to honor that vision would be to help others to discover the light that is in themselves. Just as Jesus’ words from the book of

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

Matthew exhort believers not to hide their light under a basket, but let it shine where it can give hope to those around them, John reminded the alumnae that Merrie-Woode is a place where young women find the courage and confidence to shine their own lights, which they can then use to help others find their light, thereby passing the vision on from one person to the next.

Inspired by John’s call to keep Dammie’s vision alive, everyone rose to join the Centennial Choir in singing “Ode to Joy,” with the resounding final verse capturing the spirit of triumphant love that all were feeling after this tremendous weekend of renewed friendships

Jill Crawford and Andres Diaz perform Chamber music during Centennial Chapel.

and collective devotion to Merrie-Woode. With closing remarks from Board Chair, Elizabeth Keenan Thompson, the centennial guests joined in a Merrie-Woode favorite, “In Years to Come (1951 Banquet Song)”, accompanied by Jill and Andres, singing the familiar words, “our eyes will shine, our

hearts will yearn remembering Merrie-Woode.” In closing, John Brantley gave a benediction to the worship service, calling all to go forth into the world rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Spiritually renewed and eternally grateful for the blessing of Merrie-Woode in their lives, alumnae and friends hugged each other and said their last “goodnight, but not goodbyes.”

Though the Centennial weekend had come to a close, all were thinking ahead to their next opportunity to return to their favorite camp!

John’s sermon is available; please contact Annette@ merriewoode.com.

A Living, Growing Archives

One of the highlights of the Centennial Events weekend was the official opening of the CMW Centennial Archives.

Once Mary Jane Scott Trimble, Centennial Archives Chair, and Lindsay Garner Hostetler, Camp Archivist, cut the ceremonial ribbon, alumnae of all ages flooded into the Program Office to view the new archival facility.

Also inside on display was the special exhibit, “Going Back is the Best of All: 100 Years of Merrie-Woode,” featuring over 150 historic items. It was thrilling to watch multiple generations walk through the exhibit, soaking in the tangible objects which represent the remarkable story of MerrieWoode’s first hundred years on

Ginger Sommerville Hallock and Dorothy Moss Williams enjoy visiting the CMW Centennial Archives exhibit this summer.

Lake Fairfield.

Visitors were also given their first glance at two recently renovated rooms in the Program Office dedicated to the CMW Centennial Archives. Visitors can now browse our collections in the reading room. This quiet and welcoming space is the perfect place to come and look through what the Archives 17

hold. The Archives’ collections are permanently stored in the stacks. This separate room is temperature and humidity controlled to best prevent the deterioration of our records and artifacts. The CMW Centennial Archives include documents, scrapbooks, photos, artifacts, film, books, and personal collections significant to MerrieWoode’s history. Funds from the Centennial Campaign were allocated to establish the Archives, and as an archival facility, we are able to preserve these collections according to current archival standards.

So what’s next for the Merrie-Woode archives? Though the centennial summer is over and the Centennial Book has

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

A Living, Growing Archives cont.

Inside the CMW Centennial Archives

been published, this does not mean that archival work will stop. The CMW Centennial Archives will continue to be a living, growing archive. Lindsay will continue archival work with help this year from Corinne Foster, graduate of Clemson University with a degree in History. Corinne will be working at Merrie-Woode on a regular part-time basis until next summer as an Archives Assistant.

Together they will continue to catalogue items into our ever growing collection. New archival donations are steadily arriving as

excitement for Camp’s archives has grown over the past year.

The CMW Centennial Archives are open to visitors by appointment. We anticipate welcoming a variety of researchers, the bulk of which will likely be casual visitors who may want to look through items of their own camp era or items from a mother or grandmother’s time at Merrie-Woode. We also look forward to assisting researchers for academic purposes who may be writing dissertations or publications. We have already had two college students, one graduate and one undergraduate, use the Archives for academic research. We’ve also seen authors and local journalists show an interest in our archival collections. The CMW Centennial Archives hold materials not only significant to Merrie-Woode history but also local history and the history of

Dorothy Moss Williams, Elizabeth Simpson Poynor, Denice Dunn, Corinne Foster, Lindsay Garner Hostetler, Mary Jane Scott Trimble, Jim Dunn, Elizabeth Keenan Thompson, Boo Tyler Kennedy, and Nancy Conkle Swann at the CMW Centennial Archives ribbon-cutting ceremony.

the girls camping movement in America.

If you wish to make an appointment to see what treasures the CMW Centennial Archives hold or if you have items you’d like to donate to our collection, visit our Archives page (merriewoode.com/ activities/centennial-archives/) or email lindsay@merriewoode. com.

Order your Centennial Book!

Camp Merrie-Woode: 100 Years of Following the Gleam This beautifully designed, award winning, hardcover book documents the history and legacy of Camp Merrie-Woode and her founders. The coffee table sized book is over 250 pages with stunning new photographs and significant archival imagery. This is sure to be a keepsake that grandmothers, mothers, daughters, and granddaughters will share for generations.

Price: $100.00 All proceeds will go to the CMW Endowment.

Order online: merriewoode.com/activities/publications/

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Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

Cashiers Historical Society Presents Their Preservation Awards

On Friday, October 12th the Cashiers Historical Society hosted the 2018 Preservation Awards Ceremony in Camp Merrie-Woode’s Castle on the hill. Preservation North Carolina’s President Myrick Howard was the keynote speaker at the CHS event. Mr. Howard spoke about the importance of historic preservation in the local communities as well as Preservation North Carolina’s role in this field.

During the evening, the Society’s Board of Trustees recognized the community’s achievements in preservation.

The Cashiers Historical Society announced the recipients of the Village Heritage Award, Jane

Denice Dunn, Lindsay Hostetler, and Corinne Foster with the Cashiers Historical Society’s Jane Nardy Archival Award

Nardy Archival Award, and their Volunteer of the Year Award.

The community members and organizations were chosen for the outstanding work done in the field of historic preservation throughout the 2018 year.

Camp Merrie-Woode was honored to receive the Jane Nardy Archival Award. This honor is awarded to members of the Cashiers Valley who exemplify historic preservation and archiving of this great area’s history. Congratulations to our camp archivist Lindsay Garner Hostetler and our assistant archivist Corinne Foster who continue to meticulously document Camp Merrie-Woode’s history in our Centennial Archives. It is because of their love and energy for this important project that we are celebrating this achievement.

Centennial Ripple Goes To Press

We are thrilled to announce that the Centennial Ripple has officially gone to press! This special limited edition of the Lake Fairfield Ripple will showcase the best of one hundred years of MerrieWoode’s treasured literary magazine. Including poetry, prose, songs, and artwork, the Centennial Ripple is a charming and nostalgic glance through camp life over the past century.

Lindsay Garner Hostetler and Board Member, Dorothy Moss Williams, have been working with alumnae, Meaghan Dowling Chorske and Hebe Dowling Murphy, as well as current camp parent, Amanda Love, for over two years on this

The Centennial Ripple

exciting project. Meaghan and Hebe made the perfect motherdaughter editing team! They read through each and every Ripple of the past one hundred years which have been preserved in the CMW Centennial Archives.

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After combing through over eighty editions of the Ripple, they pulled their favorites into one collective manuscript. That original draft was painstakingly condensed down to 120 pages to feature the absolute best of the best of a century’s worth of Merrie-Woode writing and artwork.

While Meaghan and Hebe were busy editing the manuscript, Amanda Love worked to pull a beautiful selection of artwork throughout the decades. Amanda is a graphic designer and bookbinder who creates beautiful print pieces. She is also the parent of current campers Izzi and Esme Fuller. Amanda has designed this special Centennial

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

The Centennial Ripple cover plate, ready to run through the printing press

edition of the Ripple to be a gorgeous work of art. Inspired by the cover design of the tenth edition of the Lake Fairfield Ripple, this centennial edition features a dark green cover, silver print, and a tipped in archival

image of two campers walking towards the cabin line underneath Old Bald.

Lindsay has described Merrie-Woode’s Ripple publications as one of the most important collections in the CMW Centennial Archives. It gives the best picture of what day to day life at Merrie-Woode has looked like for one hundred summers. This limited edition of the Ripple is the perfect way to culminate our celebration of Merrie-Woode’s centennial.

Be sure to order your Centennial Ripple online soon. It will make the perfect gift under the tree for any Merrie-Woode girl this Christmas!

Esme and Izzi Fuller show off the first Centennial Ripple off the press!

Centennial Ripple Orders: http://www.merriewoode.com/ activities/publications/ Price: $15.00. All proceeds will go to the CMW Endowment.

Centennial Campaign – Take Part in Building the Legacy

Wow what an exciting year for the Merrie-Woode Centennial Campaign! With a chorus of joyful “Boo-whoops” louder than all the bull frogs in Lake Fairfield, the Centennial Campaign volunteers and MerrieWoode staff celebrated reaching the target of $5 million in late August. This incredible feat would not have been possible without the extraordinary generosity of the many alumnae, parents, grandparents, and friends who gave sacrificially and devotedly to achieve this worthy objective. These gifts will serve as a testament to future generations of campers demonstrating Merrie-Woode’s honored place in the hearts of those who preceded them.

During the past three

Centennial Campaign Co-Chairs Stephanie Blessey Lilley and Elly Lane with CMW Director of Development Robin McKinney Walker celebrate Centennial Campaign success!

years, Centennial Campaign Cochairs Stephanie Blessey Lilley and Elly Lane led their all-star team of over seventy volunteers with outstanding passion and tenacity. Through events across the country, Stephanie, Elly, the Lead Gifts Committee, and the City Captains generated hundreds of gifts that together 20

comprised the funding for the reconstruction of Castle, the renovation of Tajar, and the creation of the Centennial Archives. In addition, these Campaign gifts created MerrieWoode’s first ever Endowment, which includes both the General Endowment, now known as the Merrie-Woode Endowment, and several restricted endowments focused on Camperships, Programming, Building Maintenance, and Conservation and Sustainability.

Merrie-Woode will gratefully accept Centennial Campaign gifts through December 31, 2018. While the community’s response to the call for unrestricted gifts was tremendous, we still hope to achieve the minimum levels

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

Centennial Campaign – Take Part in Building the Legacy Cont. for several of our restricted endowments. The Programming, Building Maintenance, and Conservation and Sustainability Endowments are the specific needs at this time, though unrestricted gifts to support the capital projects are most welcome as well. If you would still like to be part of establishing

this incredible endowment for Merrie-Woode, but did not yet have a chance to make your pledge or gift, please contact Robin McKinney Walker at robin@merriewoode.com or (828) 743-3300. Robin will be honored and thrilled to assist you in joining the Board members, staff, alumnae, family and friends

who have made this Centennial Campaign a great success. All Centennial Campaign donors will be recognized in the inaugural Annual Report to be published in Spring 2019. There is still time for you to be included. Take part in building this legacy today.

Restoring Tajar

As part of the Centennial Campaign, Tajar received a beautiful restoration in 2018. The building was completed just in time to welcome alumnae back to celebrate our 100th summer.

From the roof to the footings, every inch of Tajar was respectfully restored by our talented facilities crew. A structural engineering report and historical photos were used to bring this camp building back to its former glory. The front porch was taken back to its original wooden decking. The upstairs windows, whose panes were suffering from weathering and rot, were completely rebuilt to match the originals. New supports underneath the building and posts on the lower level were added to correct the building from years of settling, and a rock retaining wall was installed behind the building to ensure it will be standing for the next hundred years.

Through diligent research by Lindsay Hostetler and Corinne Foster, camp’s

Newly restored Tajar

resident archivists, we learned that 2018 marked Tajar’s 80th birthday. Tajar was built before the 1938 summer to act as a second recreational building on camp property, in addition to Castle. Evening programs for the youngest campers, the Page group, would take place in this new building, while the cozy upstairs was designed to house a library for campers and staff.

The building was named after Tajar, a mythical creature who had become a fixture of campfire stories to Merrie-Woode girls in the 1930s.

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The architecture of Tajar is significantly different than any other building in camp. Instead of the traditional Adirondack design, Tajar was built in a Swiss chalet style featuring whimsical characters decorating the double balcony railings. Over the decades, it fondly became known as “the building with the little people.” The story of Tajar’s little people and their significance to Dammie Day’s camping philosophy is worth

Restored library on the second story of Tajar

noting.

When Dammie imagined a new building for the summer of 1938, the world was on the brink of war. While many Americans questioned whether or not to

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

Restoring Tajar cont. get involved in conflicts across oceans, Dammie embraced the idea of a global community. She encouraged her campers to learn about other cultures, challenging them to see beyond borders and differences. Dammie designed Tajar’s porch railings to feature wooden figures depicting people across the world. Cut-outs of Merrie-Woode campers were placed among them to represent her girls belonging to a wider international community.

During and after World War II, she frequently invited staff members from diverse cultural

Campers reading in the library of Tajar, circa 1940s

backgrounds to be part of the summer camp community, particularly young women and men of Asian descent whom she met during her winters in Hawaii.

When restoring Tajar this year, the wooden figures

were painstakingly hand cut and painted, using photos to match the original designs and colors. Many characters had to be remade from scratch, as they had disappeared or deteriorated over the decades. Marine grade plywood and heavy oil based paint was used to ensure these little Tajar people will last many, many years to come. We are proud to unveil the newly restored Tajar, looking as vivid and new as it did in the summer of 1938!

Honoring Our Board Chair: Elizabeth Keenan Thompson

Camp Merrie-Woode honored Elizabeth Keenan Thompson at this year’s Annual Meeting of the Merrie-Woode Foundation. Many of you who know Elizabeth, know she has been involved with MerrieWoode for over forty years. She is an alumna (76-81) who served two separate terms on the MerrieWoode Board of Trustees, and for the last five years she served as the Board’s Chair.

Elizabeth is originally from New Orleans and now makes her home in Darien, CT with her husband Chris, son Charlie, and daughter Kathryn (13-present). Elizabeth, along with her sister Marilee Keenan Hovet (77-82), came to camp for six summers; she became a Captain in 1981, and was on staff

Board Chair Elizabeth Keenan Thompson with Development Committee Chair Betsy Hamilton Verner

for two summers (84-85). Her passion for camp is steadfast and resolute. Her love of this special place has been inherited by her daughter, and thankfully her husband and son appreciate her profound commitment to MerrieWoode.

Elizabeth originally served on the Board from 2002 to 2007, serving on the Finance and Development Committees.

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Later, she joined the Executive Committee as the Secretary under the Board leadership of Mary Jane Scott Trimble.

Elizabeth also chaired the Nominating Committee for a number of years.

Elizabeth returned to the Board in 2012, and served on the Finance and Audit committees. In 2013, she became the Secretary under Liz Counce Irwin before becoming the Foundation’s Chair in the fall of 2014. As Chair, Elizabeth has worked tirelessly to ensure sound financial management, comprehensive camp programming analysis, successful fundraising, the creation of camp’s permanent endowment, comprehensive long range planning, and oversight of Camp’s Centennial Celebration in 2018.

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

Among her many, many accomplishments, Elizabeth oversaw the plans for MerrieWoode’s beautiful new Castle.

This project was particularly challenging due to the expense and the understandably strong connection campers and alumnae have with this special place in camp. Her work with the Facilities Committee ensured that the newly renovated Castle and King Arthur’s Court were functional spaces for the current programming needs, yet were in keeping with the original Castle we all remember and cherish. Her respect for others’ opinions and her thoughtful communications helped to guide the Facilities Committee on many of the camp renovations throughout her time on the Board; other projects included the Main Office, Tajar, and the Program Office archival space and new board room. Elizabeth has also been passionate about engaging Reed Hilderbrand, a landscape design firm which specializes in not-

for-profits, public, and culturally significant sites, to return the camp environment back to a more rustic experience.

Perhaps the Board’s most notable accomplishment under Elizabeth’s direction was the Merrie-Woode Centennial Celebration, converting the working vision into a magnificent celebration of Camp’s first one hundred summers along the shores of Lake Fairfield. Relying on the good counsel of Liz Irwin and Nancy Swann and an experienced Centennial Advisory Committee, Elizabeth worked with the Board Development Committee chaired by Betsy Hamilton Verner to recruit leaders and volunteers for each committee to work with the staff on the extraordinary Centennial assignments. The Archives Committee developed the Centennial Archives collection. The Centennial Publications Committee created the beautifully written, award winning book Camp Merrie-

Woode: 100 Years of Following the Gleam and the Centennial Ripple. The Centennial Campaign Committee raised over $5 million dollars to fund capital projects and initiate a permanent endowment. As a grand finale, the Centennial Events Committee hosted the most memorable alumnae weekend in the history of all camps! Any one of these assignments on its own would have been a major accomplishment, but to have all of these running simultaneously was a tremendous feat to manage.

Elizabeth is excited to pass the torch to camp’s new Board Chair, Clair Freeman Marshall (85-98). The entire Board of Trustees appreciates Elizabeth’s involvement over the years. It is clear that Camp Merrie-Woode is prepared to enter the next century because of her. Elizabeth, we can’t thank you enough!

Endowment Established to Honor Former Board Chairs

In the long, glorious history of Merrie-Woode, one thing has been constant: it has drawn together people who, in Dammie’s immortal words, have “loved it and given it their best” – including a full century of staff and volunteers. Just as the Merrie-Woode Centennial is the culmination of the first one hundred years of camping on Lake Fairfield, the Centennial Campaign is a culmination of the first forty years of the Merrie-

Among many highlights of the Legendary Luncheon, Denice and Jim took the occasion to make a very special announcement about a new endowment honoring Merrie-Woode’s former board chairs.

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Woode Foundation.

Sherwood Smith once told us something along these lines: “Whom Merrie-Woode needeth, the Lord provideth,” and throughout these last forty years, this has been proven over and over again. It’s not hard to imagine where we might be at this moment without our founding trustees and all the other deeply committed men and women who followed them over the years.

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

Endowment Established to Honor Former Board Chairs. cont.

Since our earliest years as a nonprofit organization, trustees and camp directors have dreamt of the day when Merrie-Woode would have a permanent endowment. Our strategic plan articulated this goal more precisely, and now the Centennial Campaign is close to achieving the goal of having up to $2 million for both restricted and unrestricted endowment purposes. Within that objective, we are seeking unrestricted endowment funds of $1 million to support the basic operation of the camp. This Merrie-Woode Endowment is on track to be fully funded within a few short years.

The Merrie-Woode Foundation has been blessed at each critical moment of its development by outstanding individuals who have stepped

Former Board Chairs honored through the new Merrie-Woode Endowment include Pete Hendricks, Liz Counce Irwin, Carla Hulsey Simmons, Mary Jane Scott Trimble, Barry “Beanie” Lohmeyer Stout, and Nancy Conkle Swann. (Not pictured: deceased Former Board Chairs John Kinnett, Bill Kemp, and Bill Pippin.)

forward to serve in the position of board chair. Each of them came and went with little fanfare and were content doing what they could when they could to advance Merrie-Woode’s success in partnership with the camp directors over the years. In light of this, the current Board

of Trustees agreed at its Spring, 2018 board meeting to “look back with appreciation” at the last forty years and honor all of our former board chairs and by association those who served with them in a meaningful way.

Upon a recommendation by ViceChair George Pillow, the Board established the Merrie-Woode Endowment in honor of our former Board Chairs, including: John Kinnett Pete Hendricks Bill Kemp Beanie Lohmeyer Stout Carla Hulsey Simmons Bill Pippin Nancy Conkle Swann Mary Jane Scott Trimble Liz Counce Irwin

Going Back and Giving Back – Annual Fund Update As the Merrie-Woode family gathered at Lake Fairfield this past June to celebrate 100 summers of Camp MerrieWoode, we reflected on how fortunate we are that MerrieWoode survived to the present day thanks to the continuous support and remarkable generosity of our alumnae. One of the most significant sources of support for Merrie-Woode is the Annual Fund.

The Annual Fund provides the essential funding to ensure that Merrie-Woode remains an institution of the

highest caliber in traditional wilderness camping. Tuition dollars alone only cover a portion of the expenses required to ensure that Merrie-Woode’s outstanding programs and facilities continue to improve each summer. When campers enjoy the outdoor adventures, visual and performing arts, and traditional programs, they are directly benefitting from the additional resources the Annual Fund ensures that we can provide.

Under the leadership of the Board of Trustees, the 24

Merrie-Woode Foundation carefully manages Camp’s resources to ensure that, in addition to maintaining the traditions of Merrie-Woode’s program, Camp also offers an exceptional curriculum, talented and well-trained staff, and top-of-the-line equipment to the campers of each session.

Flexible in purpose, the Annual Fund dollars are used in the year immediately following the year that they are raised to fund various high-priority projects and the “campership” tuitionContinued on page 26

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

Centennial Stock Shop Sale!

Find the perfect Christmas gift for your Merrie-Woode girl!

Diaper Cover (Sizes 1, 2, and 3): $20.00 CMW Onesie (Sizes 18 – 24 months): $20.00 Baby Bib: $10.00

Receive a free Centennial Tote Bag and CMW Beanie Hat with each Stock Shop purchase! (While supplies last.)

Centennial Short Sleeve T-Shirt (Sizes S, L, XL, Youth M, Youth L): $20.00 Centennial Long Sleeve Green Shirt (Sizes Youth M, Youth L): $25.00 100 Summers Short Sleeve T-Shirt (Sizes S, M, L, XL): $20.00

Centennial Ball Cap: $20.00 40oz. Stainless Steel Water Bottle: $35.00

Toddler T-Shirts (Sizes 2T and 4T): Star Trail Over Old Bald Poster: $15.00 Star Trail Over Old Bald Poster (signed by artist): $30.00

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Centennial Fleece Blanket: $45.00

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

Endowment Established to Honor Former Board Chairs. cont. scholarship program.

Merrie-Woode is proud to be able to offer the camp experience each summer to several girls through “camperships.” This fund not only provides financial assistance to many camp families, but also works with leadership programs, such as Camplify in Hendersonville, NC, to identify potential campership recipients.

Through this partnership, we are able to grant full tuition camperships to young girls who

would not otherwise have the opportunity to attend summer camp. These girls have earned recognition in their school communities for leadership skills, a strong work ethic, and positive attitude. All of us at Merrie-Woode believe that camp provides a unique experience for youth development, character building, and self-discovery, and we are thrilled to be able to offer that experience to Merrie-Woode girls, old and new, each summer.

Gifts to the Annual Fund may be made by check mailed to the Camp office or by credit card through the MerrieWoode website. All gifts are tax deductible within the limits of the Internal Revenue Service Code. Thank you to all of our contributors who are driving us toward a record success for the Annual Fund again this year. You know that GIVING BACK is really the best of all!

2018 GOALS Expedition Heads West!

We are thrilled to say that Camp Merrie-Woode’s third annual GOALS (Girls Outdoor Adventure Leadership School) was a huge success.

Each year the expedition can look different, but for the first time in this program MerrieWoode was able to paddle on the Arkansas River in Colorado.

There were ten participants this year including a combination of CAs, JCs, and camper Captains.

Participants had the opportunity to refresh their kayaking skills, build confidence, and develop as leaders. They ultimately grew in assurance in their river running skills and challenged themselves on new whitewater.

Laura Butcher, 2018 GOALS participant, recalled that, “Most of us were very nervous at first but once we starting going down the river and as we got further into the trip, we became more

The 2018 GOAL Expedition group

comfortable and confident in our skills... Most of us were used to paddling rivers in North Carolina, so going to Colorado was different but a very rewarding experience.”

The GOALS trip itinerary consisted of paddling on different sections of the Arkansas River including Brown’s Canyon and the Fractions. The group also spent some time at the play parks in Buena Vista and Salida where they were able to work on rescuing swimmers and gear in fast-moving whitewater. Each 26

day participants would split into different roles including dish washers, water girls, cooks, and leaders of the day. Conery Schmidt recalled, “I was really challenged as a paddler on this trip, but in a good way…I was challenged both mentally and physically.” Along with learning how to work together as their own unit, the group was able to experience FIBark, a historic whitewater festival that takes place in Buena Vista every year.

Kayakers come from all over the world to compete in and watch this event. Being able to feel a part of the larger paddling community is not only beneficial to GOALS participants but the Merrie-Woode boating program as a whole. “The GOALS expedition was one of the best outdoor experiences of my life.

I obviously grew more confident in my paddling skills, but I also

Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2018

gained confidence in myself as a leader…Something about sleeping outside, cooking all our own food, and remaining outside the whole time was very important to me,” said Margaret Shufflebarger.

Offering the GOALS Expedition each year is an exciting advancement for the Merrie-Woode Adventure Program. We look forward to seeing the program grow, giving

older campers and young staff the opportunity to be part of an empowering adventure and develop as leaders. The 2019 GOALS Expedition will head out shortly before the Main Session next year.

For more information, contact Merrie-Woode’s Adventure Program Coordinator, Kelli Talley: (828)743-3300 or kelli@merriewoode.com.

2018 Board of Trustees Elizabeth Keenan Thompson, Chairman Darien, CT Holly Pierce Ambler Boone, NC Alan Clark Charlotte, NC Martha Dockery Clark Charlotte, NC

Centennial Scenes

Mathilde Villere Currence New Orleans, LA William (Bill) Curtis Houston, TX Julie Harrower Diaz Dallas, TX Tweed Cline Eckhard Tampa, FL

Young alumnae volunteers at the Legendary Luncheon in middies, bloomers, and ties.

Plenty of selfies taken in front of Old Bald!

Mary Leland Davenport Hutchison Lookout Mountain, TN Creecy Chandler Johnson Raleigh, NC Clair Freeman Marshall Raleigh, NC James (Jay) McKnight Nashville, TN

The future generation of Merrie-Woode girls in the Fritz Orr Memorial after Chapel.

Staff from the 1979 summer brave the rain before Campfire!

George Pillow Killen, AL Carter Coker Simpson Washington, DC Betsy Hamilton Verner Atlanta, GA Daniel (Dan) Wilbanks Knoxville, TN

A mother daughter tetherball game!

Fun at Free Boats!

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Dorothea (Dorothy) Moss Williams Washington, DC

Camp Merrie-Woode® 100 Merrie-Woode Rd. Sapphire, NC 28774 828.743.3300

Return Service Requested

To The Household Of:

www.merriewoode.com

Save the Date

Cashiers Christmas Parade Saturday, December 8th at noon (rain date: Sunday, December 9th at 1 PM)

If you are in Cashiers on Saturday, December 8th, be sure and head to the center of town at noon for the Cashiers Christmas Parade. The Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce and the Parade Director are honoring Merrie-Woode’s Centennial!

The 2018 parade theme is “Over the River and Through the Woodes.” They are asking participants to feature “Merrie Mountain Christmas Traditions” on their parade entries. As an additional honor, Jim and Denice Dunn will serve as the parade’s Grand Marshals. The staff at Merrie-Woode is already contemplating ideas for our CMW float, and we would love to see some familiar Merrie-Woode faces along the parade route. We will be throwing “broccoli” from the CMW Centennial float!

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