Fire of 1937

Ahmek Refuses to Close

Not more than three days before the campers were to arrive in the summer of 1937, a savage fire burned down the Ahmek dining hall, kitchen, and store house. The fire was eventually extinguished by the modest work crew in camp at the time forming a bucket brigade. Though no one was hurt, the damage done to these fundamental buildings was beyond repair. The Chief acted fast, instantly preparing for a solution to the devastating disaster. He contacted the Ridpath Company to construct 50 wooden tables by hand, rented 300 chairs from the same company, and ordered two circus tents from Scythes and Co. for the dining hall and kitchen. Many people worked day and night to replenish the camp with supplies, and by Saturday (The fire was on Wednesday) camp began on time with the arrival of over 200 campers. Not even the harshest of elements can keep the Taylor Statten Camps from opening every year since 1921!

Promptly after the first dining hall burnt down, the new dining hall was constructed. Designed by George “Chubby” Chubb, the Ahmek dining hall was finished in the spring of 1938 and stands today as the camp’s focal building. It is complete with two fireplaces, a built-in kitchen, formidable acoustics for musical and theatrical performances, and a very spacious dining area.

More on TSC History:

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Wapomeo is Born >>
TSC’s Canoe Tripping Program >>