Tiny tells of Nakanawa Legacies

Hello everyone….

My mother, Sarah Hunter from Mobile boarded a train full of New Orleans girls back in the 1920’s for Nakanawa. She always talked about her love for Colonel Rice-the discipline he gave the girls and the expectations he had of them. She loved the dance program the most along with the pageants and her Valkyrie team. She began a legacy that is unbroken to this day…

4 Generations:  Lots of Lotts

My oldest sister, Sally arrived at Nakanawa in the early 1950’s, followed by my sister, Annette. They spent many happy summers at Nakanawa. They were both in Tent Row and Annette was Valkyrie Captain. Following in their footsteps, my sister, Lillis began her summers at the age of 9 in 1961, and finally I came in 1965 as the youngest (and smallest….thus the name “Tiny”). Lillis was Valkyrie Captain in Junior camp and went on to cross the lake for a few years. I spent 10 summers at Nakanawa through the late 60’s and early 70’s when camp attendance was slim. We went through the changes of 8 weeks to 7 weeks, then 6 weeks. I was in Tent Row two times-1974 and 1975. Meanwhile four of my nieces (Sally’s children) began coming to camp. My sister, Annette, sent her 2 adopted girls to camp also.

Flash forward to 1990 when I returned with my girls, Sarah and Catherine, to Nakanawa-one as a camper and one only 4 years old! My daughters went all the way through Tent Row and served as counselors also. Catherine is on the staff to this day. I have been back at camp every summer since 1990. Other nieces have also come and many great-nieces as well.
Nakanawa is part of my life and always has been. I grew up there. My friendships are long lasting and meaningful at camp. Nakanawa is where I regroup every year.  It is my retreat (though a working retreat!), my summer home in heart and soul!

Every summer when I crawl into my freshly made bed, I sigh a peaceful sigh knowing that I have once again come home.
Nakanawa is a tradition in my family that I hope continues long after I am gone. I have one granddaughter that was born last year. I hope that she will find her place at Nakanawa as have I and the other women in my family. The tradition continues!
Love,
Tiny