Camp Three Arrows

(This is the follow up of 'Road Trip')

Camp Three Arrows was born in 1952 as a recreational facility for the
youth wing of the CCF. The Co-operative Commonwealth Federation was Canada's first socialist party, which became the NDP.

The 20 acres of former farm land on a lake was used as a summer campground. Some trees were planted, and most of the land was gradually naturalized. Some old apple trees are still on the property.

As members began raising families, a kitchen building was added on the land, and later, a bunkhouse. Finally, a large wood cottage/cabin was built (by the members). Some of the original members moved away or left the collective. Others remained, and their children and grandchildren are now members.

Over the years, new people have joined. As far as I know, membership does not require affiliation with a political party. Joining means participating in two work weekends a year, as well as paying member dues and looking after the area. There is an annual general meeting and a president.

A friend of mine joined a few years ago, and now I've been invited to become a member. It's like having a cottage in a very big family. Only without the bitterness and old grudges.

The lake is very quiet - very few cottages and mostly wild land. No speedboats, lots of space, and very clear water. And it seems the cabin isn't used all that much. I'm looking forward to my first work weekend sometime in the fall, when I'll be able to meet other members.