Each age group adopted the name of a mythological god, and then used the camp computers to learn about the god, create a poster, and write a rap song. On July 19, the campers sang their songs before lunch.
It has a pool, ball fields and hiking trails like other camps. Local Scouts have held events at Camp Olmsted. And students from Cornwall-on-Hudson have visited to climb the ropes and ride the zip line. In the off-season, adults have stayed at the guest house for retreats or conventions.
The site is beautiful. But to really appreciate the place, you have to see it in the summer when it’s filled with campers. Olmsted has a distinct personality that makes even lunch time unique.
Saturday, July 19, was visiting day. There were guests from the United Methodist City Society that operates the camp and from organizations that sponsor campers. They had just completed a tour of the grounds when they heard a rhythmic chant from the area near the dining room. They hurried up the hill to see what was happening.
The campers were split into six groups, according to their sex and age. The counselors were facing them and leading a spirited rendition of “The Green Grass Grew All Around.” Next they tried a rap with a catchy lyric.
Finally, the camp director (Mastura Medina) interrupted them. “We have visitors,” she announced. The kids replied in unison. “Welcome to Camp Olmsted,” they shouted with the same gusto as before.
Olmsted has three two-week sessions that attract 60-70 sleepover campers from New York City. There are also about 25 day campers from the Cornwall area.
When it was time for lunch, a youngster rang a gong, and the groups filed into the dining hall and stood around their tables. “Good afternoon, kitchen staff,” the campers said to the people waiting to feed them. Then a girl held up a chalkboard, and the kids chanted the mealtime prayer with enthusiasm.
During lunch, there were occasional bursts of rhythmic applause. If someone spilled something, the kids clapped in unison so the person wouldn’t feel embarrassed.
When Rev. Bill Shillady (the executive director of the United Methodist City Society) hobbled in unexpectedly, the kids cheered as if he were a rock star. Because of a double knee replacement, this was his first visit of the summer, but youngsters remembered him from previous summers.
Many of the kids have been coming to the camp on Bay View Avenue for several years. Later in the day, a counselor explained why the campers return. “Once you become part of the Olmsted family,” he said, “we never let you go.”