History

Brown Ledge was established in 1926 by Harry and Marjorie Brown.

The Browns, who had been Head Counselors at another Vermont camp, felt girls of camper age have the ability to choose for themselves to a large degree that which will provide the most rewarding and beneficial program. This philosophy has remained unique and unchanged since its inception.

Directorship of Brown Ledge was handed over to the Brown’s daughter, Barbara Winslow, in the early 1960s. The patterns and quality established in Brown Ledge’s first thirty years was carried forth and expanded by Barbara. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Barbara recognized the need to institute a mechanism for the perpetuation of Brown ledge. With her encouragement, a group of then current and former staff members founded the BL Perpetuators, Inc. for the express purpose of purchasing and continuing the operation of camp.

The role of Director is now co-held by Bill and Kathy Neilsen. Barbara selected the Neilsens to take over the day-to-day operations of Brown Ledge Camp in 1983. Bill and Kathy have upheld the traditions established by the Brown family while steering camp successfully into the 21st Century. Running a summer camp has become a much more complicated enterprise, but when you visit camp you will see that camp operates in much the same manner as it did throughout its history.

In 1997, BL Perpetuators donated their shares to create the Brown Ledge Foundation. The Foundation is a not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) organization whose express purpose is to perpetuate Brown Ledge Camp. Through foresight, love, and thoughtfulness Brown Ledge alumnae have ensured that camp is well positioned to continue offering a quality program, with a unique philosophy, in a beautiful location for another 80 years.