Camp Strawderman Celebrates Nearly a Century of Empowering Girls

EDINBURG, Virginia — Camp Strawderman, a cherished summer tradition for nearly a century, continues to empower girls aged 6 to 17 through a unique blend of activities and community. Established in 1929, the camp spans 300 acres in the picturesque Shenandoah Valley, where generations of girls have forged lifelong friendships and discovered their self-confidence.

“It’s our mission here at Camp Strawderman to make girls happy, so they will share their happiness with others,” said Jeanne Mockard, the camp director. “We aim to create friendships that last a lifetime.” The camp offers a diverse range of activities, including horseback riding, swimming, arts and crafts, and archery, all while fostering a deep appreciation for nature.

Rich History and Legacy

Founded by Margaret “Barca” Hoffman in honor of the original property owners, the camp has a storied past. The Strawderman family were Hessian farmers who settled in the valley in 1789. By the 1920s, Barca Hoffman began inviting friends to the family farm, leading to the establishment of Camp Strawderman. “It’s interesting,” Mockard noted, “that Barca, who had come out here with her father, learned to welcome everyone equally.”

For over 50 years, Hoffman directed the camp, followed by her niece, Margaret Hoffman Gouldman. Mockard, a former camper herself, took on the role of director and continues to honor the camp’s legacy. “I like to say we’ve only had three directors,” she remarked with a chuckle. “But in reality, how many camps can say that?”

A Day at Camp

Each day at Camp Strawderman begins at 7 a.m. with the sound of a bell ringing, signaling the start of activities. Campers gather for morning colors, raising the flag before enjoying breakfast. Following cabin duties, which involve maintaining cleanliness, girls participate in classes that include swimming, archery, and dance.

The camp’s equestrian program allows girls to ride and care for horses, including Aldie, a blind horse. “We teach all levels,” Mockard explained, emphasizing that newcomers can still have a fulfilling experience. Senior staff member Laurie Atkinson highlighted the confidence gained through the program, noting, “You can see their sense of pride.”

After lunch, which includes sharing highlights from the morning, campers engage in recreational activities of their choice, such as yoga or hiking. The day culminates with a campfire, where everyone gathers to sing and enjoy skits presented by fellow campers.

Special events pepper the summer schedule, including merit-based honors, horse shows, and a water pageant showcasing synchronized swimming. “We really want them to have a joyful summer,” Mockard said.

Friendships flourish within this vibrant community. Fourth-generation camper Pippia Moffatt, visiting from Australia, expressed excitement about the connections made at camp. “I came last summer and ran around here like I’d been here forever,” she said, surrounded by friends.

Building Lasting Connections

Many campers, like Audrey Schepis, find a sense of belonging that feels like home. “It’s my true family,” she said, noting that she stays connected with friends through social media. Stella Lee, a camper from Washington, D.C., remarked on the speed at which friendships develop, attributing it to the shared experiences at camp.

Program director Valerie Webdell emphasized the importance of fostering connections among campers in an environment free from technology. “They don’t have phones here, so they’re forced to connect as people,” she explained, highlighting the camp’s unique atmosphere.

As Camp Strawderman approaches its centennial celebration, Mockard looks ahead with optimism. “I don’t think camp is really ever left behind. I think it becomes a part of who we are,” she said. The legacy of the camp continues through the friendships and personal growth experienced by all who attend, ensuring that the spirit of Camp Strawderman will endure for generations to come.