OSWEGO â Seventy-five years ago this summer, Camp Hollis began providing recreation and respite for the children of Oswego County.
Earlier that year, in the spring of 1946, Eugene F. Sullivan was leading the mission to re-open the abandoned health camp on Lake Ontario in the town of Oswego. Sullivan, who was the Oswego County Childrenâs Court Judge, saw many needy children in his court chambers and believed that a summer camp experience could have a positive influence on their lives. However, he needed help to fulfill his dream.
Sullivan knew that re-starting a camp in the post-World War II years would require much support and he reached out to youth-serving organizations such as school districts and medical facilities. Wanting his camp to serve children from all parts of Oswego County, the judge also asked the countyâs elected Board of Supervisors â today known as the County Legislature â if they might consider providing financial support for his camp. Convincing the group would not be easy.