Our 120+ Year Legacy
Since its founding in 1903, Camp Wachusett has been in continuous operation every summer except three during World War II. For more than 120 years, boys have come here to grow, explore, and build friendships that last a lifetime.
Camp Wachusett is one of the oldest boys’ camps in America, and its traditions, values, and spirit have been passed down through generations of boys. This is the story of how it all began and how it continues today.
The Early Years (1903–1930s)
Camp Wachusett began in 1903 on Little Squam Lake in Holderness, New Hampshire, founded by Rev. Lorin Webster of the Holderness School. The first summer welcomed about fifteen boys under head counselor James Henderson, whose legacy continues through the Henderson Trophy. These early decades established the spirit of friendship, outdoor adventure, and personal growth that still defines Wachusett today.
Growing Traditions (1940s–1970s)
As Wachusett grew, so did its traditions. Native American staff shared aspects of their culture with campers, leaving behind stories, memorabilia, and a lasting respect for nature and community. The camp’s motto, “unaliyi,” meaning “a place of friends,” became a guiding value. These years shaped the classic Wachusett experience: fun, humor, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging.
A New Home in Vermont (1986)
After more than eight decades on an 11‑acre property in New Hampshire, Wachusett moved to its current home on Lake Hortonia in 1986. The 40‑acre property, once Camp Birchwood for girls, offered a beautiful waterfront setting and spacious facilities. The move marked a new chapter while preserving the traditions and values that had defined the camp since 1903.
The Weiss Era (1986–2018)
Under Jim and Maria Weiss, Wachusett flourished in Vermont. Generations of campers returned as CITs, Junior Counselors, and senior staff, creating a tight‑knit community rooted in continuity. The emphasis on personal attention, character development, and joyful camp spirit remained central, shaping thousands of boys’ summers over more than three decades.
Wachusett of Today (2018–Present)
In 2018, ownership transitioned to Phil Williams, whose connection to Wachusett began in 1976 as a camper. Phil’s decades of experience as counselor, assistant director, and now director continue the camp’s long tradition of leadership from within. Today, Wachusett remains a place where boys grow in confidence, build lifelong friendships, and become part of a legacy more than 120 summers strong.