The Masqua, Published by the Boys of Camp Belknap on Lake Winnipesaukee
Tuftonboro, NH: Camp Belknap, 1936. Camp is an all boys summer resident camp found in 1903. Originally it was operated by the YMCA until 1996 when it switched to an independent non-profit. The boys ranged in age from 8 to 16 and could stay for one, two, four, six or eight weeks. Each year the camp puts out a Masqua, a compilation of the camp's weekly newsletters. Each week the newsletter would consist of short essays or stories written by one of the campers, copies of letters sent home, songs campers had made up, information on the various clubs at camp (such as the photography or nature club) or information on upcoming events like field trips, the 4th of July, or who won the camp tennis tournament. There is also one drawing that show a man saying "I'm wise, I'm voting for Campbell." This folder consists of 107 typewritten pages.
Below are a few excerpts:
"Gee! Camp is a swell place, especially this camp. We got radios n' everythin', 'cept out leader snores and I can't sleep nights, but it's all right 'cause my leader sleeps most of the afternoon anyway and he keeps the tent quiet so I get my rest in then..."
- Letter home from Gilbert Stribridge.
"The season ends to our regret
But we've made fiends we'll never forget;
It's been grand to be here 'neath the pines
And give our thanks to the Great Divine;
We've helped ourselves, and others as well,
How much is something we cannot tell.
So, as we depart on our various ways
So long, friends, and -- Happy Days."
- Written by the Editor, Donald W. MacIssac as a goodbye at the end.
At the end of the Masqua there is a list of all the staff members, counselors (or Leaders as they are called), and campers for the Summer of 1936, along with their addresses. Also included is the letter that was sent to each camper with the Masque from "Pa", the camp director, Ernest P. Colon, and a list of all the boys with October and November birthdays. Wraps with 3-hole brad binding.
Green covers. Brad binding. 114 pages (107 numbered, index and title page not). Measures 11 1/2" x 8 1/2" Interior pages are toned due to age, otherwise fine.
Price: $350.00
Item #29001100