Description
Book SynopsisFor over a century, summer camps have provided many American children's first experience of community beyond their immediate family and neighborhoods. This title chronicles the history of the American summer camp, from its invention in the late nineteenth century through its rise in the first four decades of the twentieth century.
Trade ReviewA well-argued and impressively researched contribution to the field of the history of childhood. * Environmental History *
Paris brings to life the wonder of summer camp. . . . This book will be of great value to those interested in recreation and leisure in Norht America, and it will delight those who have their own summer camp experiences. . . . Highly recommended. * Choice *
Fluently written, well researched, alert to the wider picture, this book is an important contribution. * American Historical Review *
Pariss fine book on American summer camps nicely demonstrates how social and cultural historians can connect this autonomous world of children with the history of childhood. * American Journal of Play *
Using an impressive array of camp records, memoirs, social scientific literature, and, most entertainingly, childrens letters and diaries, Paris brings alive the experiences and motivations of the camp directors, parents, and campers. * Anthropological Quarterly *
Table of ContentsAcknowledgmentsIntroduction: A Warm History of Modern Childhood I At Work and at Play: The Making of Camp "Family"1 Small Islands: The First Summer Camps 2 "A Home Though Away from Home": How Parents, Camp Owners, and Children Forged Camp Networks 3 Rituals of the Season: The Organization of Camp Community 4 Between Generations: Tensions in the Camp "Family"II Modernity and Tradition in Children's Socialization5 Is It Progress? Modernity and Authenticity in Camp Life 6 Tans, Tepees, and Minstrel Shows: Race, Primitivism, and Camp Community 7 The Pioneer Ideal: Camp History, American History, Children's History Conclusion: "I Had to Go On in Life": From Camp to Childhood Nostalgia Abbreviations of Archives Notes Index About the Author
