Our History
“Temple Emanuel is so fortunate that we are one of the few congregations that has our own summer camp. That makes us a very, very special place.”
A Mountain Enclave
Established in 1949, Shwayder Camp is the oldest Reform Jewish summer camp in the United States. Through the years, campers look forward to returning to camp – their home away from home. Surrounded by friends and nature, campers can express themselves, explore new opportunities, develop their independence, and have fun. Our community is a safe environment where all of our campers share a special bond with one another.
Our 242 acres of towering pine trees started as a fishing retreat owned by Maurice B. Shwayder, one of the founders of the Samsonite Luggage Company.
When he died in 1948, Shwayder’s widow, Ruth, donated the land to Temple Emanuel to be used specifically as a children’s summer camp. Her vision was to create a mountain enclave where children could live in nature, learn about Judaism, and personalize the ideals of our Jewish community.
Since that time, Shwayder Camp has had an impact on the lives of tens of thousands of Jewish youth from around the nation and the world. We have remained a small camp (our current capacity is 150 campers per session) where we can spend lots of time emphasizing our relationships – with ourselves, with our friends, and with God.
From Generation to Generation
Over the years we have collected tons of photos and keepsakes. We have pictures from every decade along with brochures and song books.
If you have any photos you would like to share with us please email info@shwayder.com
