For years kids have had the opportunity to swim, kayak, fish, practice archery, create long-lasting friendships, and make many summer memories at the YMCA’s Camp Eigenberg. Camp owners, Sigrid and Chuck Eigenberg shared some of the history that has gone into their camp and the joy that it’s brought them over the years.
HISTORY CAMP EIGENBERG
Camp Eigenberg exists in honor of my parents, Chris and Irma Eigenberg. I grew up on the farm where “hospitality” was the by-word. Dad always seemed to have time to chat so everyone was invited in: neighbors, relatives, friends, even door-to-door salesmen. The coffee pot was usually on and mom usually had some tasty cookies or cake for a snack.
The farm was also a place where larger gatherings occurred. Relatives celebrated holidays, large family meals were enjoyed and the kids ran, climbed, chased, and played all over the farm while the adults chatted and relaxed in some peace. Later, in our adolescent years, my brothers and my friends were welcomed whole-heartedly (almost always with food). Church youth groups also worshipped and played on the farm. For many years dozens of workers for the annual church rally barbeque dinner gathered to feed the fire, fellowship, and socialize until the meat was placed in the pit and covered. Many seed corn customers also found a bit of respite when they stopped by because again, the coffee was on and dad and mom were happy to chat a while.
Mom and dad loved it when people enjoyed their farm. They made them feel welcome and invariably invited them back. When Sigrid and I bought the property after dad passed away and mom wanted less responsibility for taking care of it, we tried to perpetuate the welcoming atmosphere that they began many years ago.
I believe that mom and dad are now looking down from Heaven with great big grins seeing their heritage alive and well in the faces of dozens of children swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, and enjoying God’s gift of the land entrusted to the two of the many years ago.
– Sigrid and Chuck Eigenberg
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