Chambana Sun

Generations of alumni, families, supporters, and staff gathered at 4-H Memorial Camp in Monticello on July 19 to mark the camp’s 75th anniversary. The event took place at the camp’s location within Allerton Park, which is independently owned and operated by Illinois 4-H.

The celebration was organized by University of Illinois Extension 4-H and included a program with remarks, videos, music, and a candlelight ceremony. The gathering recognized the history of the camp since its founding in 1950 and looked ahead to future improvements.

“4-H Memorial Camp is more than a place, it’s a legacy,” said camp director Andy Davis. “It’s humbling to look around and see the generations of campers, counselors, and leaders whose lives have been shaped by their time here. This celebration is for them and for the next 75 years of memories still to come.”

Illinois Public Media’s Todd Gleason led the evening as emcee. The program began with a welcome that recalled the original dedication outside the dining hall in 1950. A commemorative video shared memories from across decades.

Dr. Kevin Carey, interim assistant dean for 4-H youth development, addressed attendees about the camp’s role in building confidence and leadership among young people.

“As we celebrate the past, we also recognize the responsibility we share in shaping the future,” Carey said. “Camp has been a cornerstone of the 4-H experience in Illinois, and together, we will ensure it continues to thrive for generations to come.”

A panel discussion featured former camp directors Norma Turok, David Shiley, Curt Sinclair, and Andy Davis. They spoke about their experiences at camp and how it has changed over time.

Former staff members David Fulton and Jillian Baker also gave testimonials about how working at camp helped develop skills important for their careers. Baker now works with National 4-H Council.

A special activity invited guests from each decade since the camp opened to stand up as they reflected on their first summer at camp.

Future plans for upgrades were announced during the event by Angie Barnard, executive director of the Illinois 4-H Foundation, and Maggie Wave from the College of ACES. Planned improvements include making facilities accessible year-round and updating buildings such as Iwig Lodge. Bea Bagby was named as lead donor with a $50,000 pledge toward renovations.

“Tonight is about dreaming big,” said Barnard. “We invite everyone who has been touched by this place to help us write the next chapter of the 4-H Memorial Camp story.”

The evening ended with an outdoor flag-lowering ceremony followed by lighting five candles representing different aspects of camp history before participants sang “Linger” around a fire with s’mores.

Earlier that day a tree was planted on site as a symbol of lasting legacy.

Since its founding on land donated by Robert Allerton in memory of Illinois soldiers who died in World War II, more than 250,000 people have attended programs at 4-H Memorial Camp. As part of University of Illinois Extension and Illinois 4-H programming through https://extension.illinois.edu/4-h-memorial-camp/about-our-camp , it continues to focus on belonging, leadership development, and discovery among youth participants.

Illinois 4-H operates under University of Illinois Extension within https://aces.illinois.edu/ . It offers hands-on learning opportunities that prepare young people for college or career paths while helping them build confidence and resilience.