history

Camp Maplehurst was founded in 1955 by Dr. Thomas S. Cohn as a summer camp that offered an alternative to the autocratic, hierarchically organized school and social systems that campers experience during the regular school year. 

Dr. Cohn was actively involved in the education of gifted children.  He wanted a camping experience for bright children that offered them safety from bullying and the opportunity to express themselves in creative ways.  Since he was a professor of psychology at the University of Michigan, he was able to assemble an outstanding group of counselors and administrators.  The staff was able to gain course credit and work on advanced graduate degrees  while working with the campers. 

A child-centered staff was essential for a successful camping experience.  The staff was supplemented by a group of visiting guest experts and scientists.  They met with the campers each week on an informal basis and stimulated discussions and projects.  The level of creative expression was extraordinary.  Campers not only took part in many activities including plays, skits, music, and special activities, but they had the opportunity to lead them! 

Maplehurst was one of the first camps to encourage the children to plan daily and special activities.  This allowed the campers to express their interests and utililize their creative energy.   One of the central facets of the "Maplehurst philosophy" was for campers to enjoy learning.  Play was considered essential for optimal learning.  These ideas are still apart of the Maplehurst program.