Issue 3: June 26, 2021
Another Birthday!
Cachalot isn't the only place celebrating a birthday in 2021! Our predecessor camp, the former Camp Noquochoke in Westport, Massachusetts, would have marked the 100th anniversary of its first day of summer camp tomorrow, June 27th. While Camp Noquochoke is no longer with us, it's part of our Association's purpose to also preserve Noquochoke's history. That's part of the reason why we undertook the restoration of the camp's sign, and have that sign along with several building signs on display at Cachalot in Noquochoke Lodge, a multi-purpose building that is also the location of the OA Pavilion in honor of Robert W. LeComte. We've also archived hundreds of photos of Noquochoke over the years, going back as far as its first season.
A group of Noquochoke alumni who are part of our Association have been working this year to gather more memories of the camp. If you remember Noquochoke yourself, check out their Facebook group, where there is already active discussion from many folks who spent time there.
Memories of Cachalot: Canoes, Chocorua, and Camp Songs
Former Program Director Tom Gorka is featured in our third installment of Memories of Cachalot! Mr. Gorka first served on summer camp staff as a Nob Hill unit leader in the early 1950s, and again as program director in the early 1960s. In this interview he shares some of his memories of camp, including the origins of staffers wearing toggle belts, canoe trips from Cachalot to New Bedford, a staff trip up Mt. Chocorua, and reminds us that at Cachalot, we sing everywhere. Even in interview videos.
Check out previous interviews along with our complete video archive on our YouTube channel.
Our Homecoming and Diamond Jubilee Celebration
We are still putting plans together for an event combining our annual Homecoming, a celebration of Cachalot's 75th Anniversary and the induction of our 2020 and 2021 Wall of Fame honorees, to take place at Camp Cachalot on Saturday September 18, 2021. Spend a fantastic day at camp with old friends, enjoy a few burgers, and help us recognize some folks who have made a difference out at Cachalot! If it's been a while since you've last visited, we'll have tours to take you around to the spots you remember and show you what's changed.
More information will be made available on our various social media channels, and on our 75th Anniversary landing page on the Association's web site.
Spread the Word!
Are you still in touch with any old friends from camp who may not know about our Diamond Jubilee activities? Forward them this issue, and let them know they can sign up to receive it in their email inbox by subscribing online.
You and your old friends can show your support to help Cachalot serve the next generation of Scouts by joining the Camp Cachalot Alumni Association. All of the information on how to join, and how your membership donation helps at Cachalot, can be found on the membership pages of our web site.
More information will be made available on our various social media channels, and on our 75th Anniversary landing page on the Association's web site.