When looking through an old YWCA scrapbook chronicling the period of 1927-1931, I came across an article dated July 31, 1931. It described a group of 40 girl scouts who were leaving the next day for camp in Waseca. The camp was named Camp Everett-Hormel.

I was unaware the Hormels had contributed to the scout camp, but I have since found the following information.

The park, now known as Maplewood Park in Waseca, was donated to the Boy and Girl Scout organizations around 1928 by E.A. Everett. It had previously been the site of the Waseca Chautauqua Assembly but became the property of Mr. Everett in the early 1900s.

Everett was a passionate supporter of the Boy Scouts of America. Before he died in November, 1928, he was in the process of giving the land to the Cedar Valley Area Boy Scouts.

The transaction was completed following his death based on his wishes, which his family carried out, despite the transaction not being formally in his will.

During the summer of 1928, Everett spoke to Boy Scout executives in Waseca and Austin about his donation of the land. One of the provisions Mr. Everett made was that a permanent structure be built on the site for the scouts’ use.

Coincidentally, George and Lillian Hormel also had an interest in the Boy and Girl Scout organizations at this time. According to an Austin Daily Herald article dated May 16, 1929, he “had been looking about for a suitable site for a camp for the Boy Scouts. Camp sites were looked at along the Cedar River in Iowa and north of this city.” When he learned of Mr. Everett’s donation it seemed an easy decision for Mr. Hormel to contribute to the plan.

The Waseca Herald of May 29, 1929, reported that “The George Hormels of Austin are donating a commodious building 54 x 44 feet, which is to be constructed of salt glazed tile. … When the Camp is located here, it will mean that hundreds of the Boy Scouts in southern Minnesota will spend their summers on Clear Lake.” Girl Scout troops were also invited to use the facilities of the camp when the boys were not there.

It seems the Hormels interest in providing resources for young people extended beyond Austin. George had already retired by the time of the donation to the Waseca camp, but his interest in serving our area had not waned.

I was told by the director of the Waseca County Historical Society that the building the Hormels funded still stands, but Camp Everett-Hormel is no longer in existence. It was absorbed by the Waseca park system in 1967.

 Free Peace Garden Concert featuring Speaking In Tongues

6:30 p.m., Aug. 18

Led by percussionist and Austin native Marc Anderson, the group of four will bring a unique cultural engagement to the community. The musicians play distinctly different instruments from their native countries and the sound combines for an amazing experience. Funding for this event is partially provided by the Minnesota State Arts Board.

 Free Social Concerns presented by Bruce Loeschen

10 a.m., Aug. 19

Hear about Bruce’s experience with creating city montages and his process for developing the walking tour of Austin.