Swinging Through History

Swinging is such a smooth, relaxing motion...except at Camp Deer Run. Over the years, The Swing has become one of the most exciting things to do at Camp. It is an activity that has brought both fear and joy to countless campers. It has been such an important activity for Camp, that when one swing is deemed to no longer be operational, a new swing is created. I have no idea how many swings have been in service over the years at Camp, but judging by the pictures I have, its at least 4, maybe 5. Here's a look at some of the earlier versions of The Swing. This swing/swings came a little before my time, but look very fun. And I also believe that this is the swing that is the center of "The White Lady" story that is told around fires at Camp.

This next swing is the one that I did a post on a few weeks ago. It was The Swing until 1998, when it was replaced by a truly safe swing. It was probably a good idea to shut this swing down, because even though it offered an amazingly satisfying ride, it was actually pretty dangerous. I know that because I saw a man, on two separate retreat weekends, fall off of The Swing at night, while doing it with no lights on and rolling to the bottom of the hill, and then later on break his leg when he hit a tree while swinging. Like I said, it was a little dangerous.
This next swing was the first one that had all sorts of safety regulations, harnesses, safety clips, special knots, and hours of training for the staff. It also started off the modern era for The Swing. It was always pretty scary to climb up tree to get to the tiny platform, where a staff member facilitated the whole event, but once you were able to muster up the confidence to lean off the platform, it was a pretty great experience.
The Swing above only had a life span of about 11 years, because a lot of the cables used for it were anchored to trees that couldn't do the work any longer. So this past summer the newest Swing was put into operation. It still has all of the harnesses and ropes and cables, but is much easier to operate. There is no need to climb a tree or platform, just put on the harness, strap on a helmet, get tied in to the swing, and let your cabin mates hoist you up in the air. I haven't been on this swing yet, but I am told it is a pretty great rush.
Hail, Dear Ol' Deer Run,

Sparky