Snuggled deep in the bush off of Crane Lake Road in Seguin, Ont., is a hidden gem called the Bob Rumball Ontario Camp of the Deaf, also known as The Ontario Camp of the Deaf. Perhaps “hidden” isn’t quite accurate, because there are signs for the camp on Highway 400 and on Blackstone Crane Lake Road itself. Local residents know of the camp, since it’s been active in the Parry Sound district for more than 50 years.
What was never hidden was camp co-founder Reverend Robert Rumball’s passion and commitment for creating a place where individuals considered “marginalized” in society could enjoy a summer-camp experience and get a reprieve from feeling “different” or “special.” The story goes that while driving in the Parry Sound area in the early 1960s, the reverend saw a “For Sale” sign on some land south of the town and closed the deal quickly. Under the auspices of the Evangelical Church of the Deaf and the Ontario Mission of the Deaf, Reverend Rumball proceeded to form The Ontario Camp of the Deaf.
Then, as now, the camp ran on a shoestring budget, and it’s easy to imagine that campers really roughed it in regards to accommodations and recreational facilities. There certainly wouldn’t have been the SplashPad, skateboard park or climbing walls that are available for the campers today. What was in abundance, however, was love, acceptance and the awareness that for the first time in their lives, children had a camp designed for them that was owned and operated by the deaf.
This story is from the May 2020 edition of More of Our Canada.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the May 2020 edition of More of Our Canada.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Welcome to St. Martins
Jane LeBlanc takes us on a tour of her adopted hometown—this charming New Brunswick village on the beautiful Bay of Fundy
Flower Power
Discovering a hobby you’re passionate about keeps you young!
HIKING THE HALIBURTON HIGHLANDS
Admiring sculptures, Inuksuks and a view of the falls is all part of the allure of this area
Distanced But Not Alone
Last summer’s ‘Fun Day’ at Otter Lake became a message of hope
CAJUN COUNTRY
Exploring the complex history and amazing culture of Acadians in Louisiana
Nature's Wonder
Having the opportunity to photograph local wildlife is a gift
A Pinch of Slowness
Taking the time to enjoy the process is a great recipe for bread—and life
CREATIVITY DURING COVID
How I ‘brought a young girl to life’ during quarantine
A Pivotal Point
From early settlement and quaint village to prosperous town and city, Pointe Claire is rich in Canadian history
A Dream Car Finds Its Dreamer
Imagine finding the car you loved as a teen parked in your driveway 25 years later