Back in 2015 Lincoln Summer Camp went under a revitalization. What was formally known as Lincoln Summer Day Camp, became Lincoln Summer Camp. A new director was brought in and the camp headed in a new direction with new structures. It was this year that our Pioneers, Ramblers, Crusaders, and Trailblazers were introduced. In deciding on these names the the team at the time wanted to capture the adventure and discovery that happens at summer camp; from making new friends, to trying new activities, to visiting new places, summer camp embodies this spirit.

For our youngest campers they choose Pioneers – which is defined by Merriam Webster “as a person or group that originates or helps open up a new line of thought or activity or a new method.” It was the perfect name for these campers who are just starting out, who are pioneering new friendships, new preferences, and new skills in their first two years at camp.

For our second and third grade campers they choose Ramblers – Ramblers is a word of British origin that refers to walking, wondering, and enjoying the outdoors. Ramblers organizations across the pond are champions of preserving green spaces and of getting outside to explore the natural world. This name felt like a great name for our second and third graders who are ready to travel further, try new things that older kids can do, and of course aligns with our values of spending time outdoors and off screens.

For our fourth and fifth graders they selected the Crusaders. Below are the definitions from Merriam Webster.

When they selected this name, they were of course thinking of “definition b” as these older campers are ready to be the leaders of our K-5 camp, and are becoming more aware of the world around them. And while their intention was for the name to refer to “definition b” the reality is this is a multiple meaning word, and “definition a” refers to conquest perpetrated against another group because of their religion.

At Lincoln Summer Camp two of our Core Camp Philosophies are:

• Summer camp should be a place where ALL campers feel free to express themselves and celebrate all the joys of childhood.
• Camper safety, both physical and emotional, should always come first.

And, put simply, the name Crusaders has the potential to make some campers feel unsafe, uncomfortable, and therefore unable to express themselves fully. It is with this in mind that we are happy to announce a brand new name for our fourth and fifth graders…

The Pathfinders

Pathfinders are defined as those who are “discovering a new way.” As our fourth and fifth graders get older they are learning more about who they are as people and are becoming more firm in their preferences. It is why at this age we begin to offer some choice blocks in their schedule to help them chart their own paths. At camp we hope by continuing to expose these campers to a variety of activities and experiences they will continue their journey of self discovery and embody the spirit of Pathfinders. And when they are ready, they will move on to our Trailblazers (grades 6 & 7) and Trailbreakers (Grades 8 & 9) where they will accelerate down their paths.