The Courier of Montgomery County reports that Camp Robinwood near Willis celebrated it’s 75th anniversary last Saturday and received a Texas Historical Commission Marker.
The camp, part of the Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council, dates back to 1949. It’s located near 9877 Calvary Road near Willis.
CEO of the council, Mary Vitek, said the camp played “its role in developing girls’ courage, confidence and character.”
To ensure that their stories are remembered for future generations, the Historical Commission recognizes places and events of historical significance across Texas.
For example, a new marker will be placed at the Conroe Community Cemetery in February. There are multiple markers across Montgomery County.
Girl Scout membership was growing in the 40’s and Houston had over 650 black Girl Scouts in active troops. Unfortunately, the nearest camp available to them was up in Oklahoma.
In the Houston community, four prominent black men were instrumental in Camp Robinwood’s development–Clarence Dupree, Hobart Taylor Sr., Carter Wesley and James Jemison.
In creating equal rights in the Houston area, the four men were businessmen, philanthropists, activists and leaders.
They donated half of the proceeds needed to buy the land in 1948, and next got a public fundraising campaign underway to raise the remaining $8,240.
In 1949, Camp Robinwood was officially established on 206 acres, before the construction of I-45 which is nearby.
