Location

Brooklyn, NY

What years did you attend Balfour?

1965-69

In what capacity were you there?

Camper, Counselor, Other

Tell us about yourself

Like lots of kids who went to Balfour, I started out as a waiter, and eventually became a counselor. I treasure those years at Balfour. I came to know some fine (and some odd) fellows there, some of whom I still consider my friends. I find myself wondering as to the whereabouts of many others. I actually do have some great old photos buried somewhere, and one day I'll find them, but I'll probably have to send them to Lew Bader to post them, cause I don't have a scanner.... The only time I ever revisited the camp after I left was many years later, late 80's, I believe. I was driving back to NYC from Montreal, where I had performed in the Jazz Festival. I was with my girlfriend at the time. As we headed south thru the Adirondacks, the scenery began to seem familiar, and I suddenly realized we were very close to Balfour. We decided to find it, and with little effort we did. We pulled up to the bas- ketball courts where the bus would deposit us every July. We walked up the road to the Lodge, and there was a man sitting on the porch. He had purchased the property some time back, and graciously invited us to wander around the camp. Many of the old cabins had fallen, but some were still standing. The grass was overgrown. The lake looked as lovely as I remembered it. I was glad that the man who'd bought the place had left it to the mercy of nature. There was still much to kindle memories, but it also had reverted to a "wilder" state. Great place to spend a summer...