About William Lawrence / Our History
More Than a Century of William Lawrence Camp
A tradition that endures. More than a century of summer days, shared traditions, and friendships that last.
About William Lawrence / Our History
A tradition that endures. More than a century of summer days, shared traditions, and friendships that last.
The beginning
Founded in 1913, William Lawrence Camp is one of the oldest camps in the United States. An independent, not-for-profit organization, the camp grew out of an affiliation with the Episcopal Church; specifically the Episcopal diocese of Massachusetts. At the time, the Bishop of Massachusetts was the well-respected William Lawrence. William Lawrence was an early advocate of camping and was committed to providing healthy opportunities for youth; as a result the founders of the camp named it after him.
The late 1960s
Our relationship with the church continued into the late sixties. Many families learned of the camp through their local Episcopal parishes. Sunday services throughout the summer by visiting clergy held in the inspiring outdoor chapel were a mainstay of the program. Still embracing a philosophy of teaching the importance of commonly shared values and ideals, in the late sixties the camp ended its association with the church.
William Lawrence Camp remains committed to providing today’s youth with healthy opportunities for fun, adventure and growth. At camp, a boy learns new skills, develops self-confidence and makes friends for a lifetime.
The William Lawrence mission
“Through a fun, balanced program, in a camp family atmosphere with positive role models, William Lawrence Camp encourages the intellectual, social, emotional, and physical development of the whole boy in a caring, nurturing, spirited, challenging, yet safe environment.”
Summer days, remembered
Days on the water. Bags packed for the mountains. These glimpses from the William Lawrence Camp archives capture the anticipation and adventure of summers past.
Today & tomorrow
As a not-for-profit, the operation of the camp is supported by a Board of Trustees. Through their commitment, strong enrollment and the support of many others, from current camper families to alumni and friends, the camp remains a vital place of learning for today’s and tomorrow’s youth and young men.
From the William Lawrence archives
Familiar places, shared meals, and friendships in the making. Explore a few more moments from the William Lawrence Camp photo archive. Select a photograph for a closer look.
Photographs from the William Lawrence Camp Photo Archive. Dates are included where recorded in the archive.
Your next adventure