Since 1932, camp plaques have served as enduring, physical tributes to Camp Arbolado traditions, acting as a visual timeline of memories, friendships, and camp history. They foster community by commemorating, celebrating, and, in some cases, educating, while providing a way for campers to leave their legacy on the camp’s physical environment. They are proudly displayed on the rafters and walls of Lions Lodge. Often a plaque will reflect the overall theme of a camp session, highlight a specific group, remember important events in US and world history, expound a virtue, or capture something whimsical and magical.
Thanks to the efforts of camp alumni, the plaques are preserved, cataloged, photographed, displayed, and maintained for current and future generations to enjoy and learn about Camp Arbolado’s rich history. A database and books are mantained which cataloge all the information on each plaque as well as their photographs.
A camp plaque from 1932. The writing on the back states “Tent 2, August 15 – 25, 1932” with the following camper and counselor names: Ruth Freeman, Pauline Blachley, Helen Loflin, Mildred Jones, Esther Scott, Mrs. Byas, and Vera Thompson.
Plaques mounted in Lions Lodge
Books that catalog and preserve plaque information. There are multiple volumes, covering from 1932 to the present.
If you would like to be a part of this important camp activity, contact Tim Tenopir at (805)760-2771 or tjtenopir@gmail.com.