Merrill F. Norlin

Merrill F. Norlin 1955 – 1959
	Merrill F. Norlin was Director from 1955 to 1959. During his time he was the principal of the Muzzey Junior High School in Lexington, MA From his Director’s Report of 1956: “This second report of the present Director can carry a note of progress and assurance that the great potentialities at North Woods are being marshaled together for a constantly improving camp experience for boys. Comment must again be made on the unrivaled physical setting at North Woods. It is a tribute to the founders of North Woods that a spot was selected which exerts such a challenging and stimulating influence on those of us who are privileged to live at the camp during the summer months.
It was interesting to note the part of tradition a North Woods as evidenced when Gilbert Roehrig paid us a brief visit this summer. We have made it a point to emphasize to boys the debt we owe to the founders of North Woods and our obligation to carry on the high traditions which were then established. It was exhilarating to see the boys stand spontaneously and give to “Gil” Roehrig a sincere and hearty welcome that obviously moved him deeply. I spent the better part of the next day walking around camp with Gil and noted with interest the numbers of boys and staff who came up to him for the privilege of shaking his hand. It was also a rich opportunity for me to explore with him the many implications of changes in North Woods since its earliest days.
	It is this unique combination of personal contributions by devoted leadership, through an awareness of boys’ needs and the utilization of the wonderful opportunities at North Woods, which must be a continuing guiding philosophy for all of us who direct its present and future.” Merrill F. Norlin, 1956 Highlights 1955 – 115 campers – Purchase of the Stake Body Truck 1956 – 114 campers – New bridge built to replace Horner’s Bridge, Merrill recommends that Parents’ Visiting Days be established, eliminating free visiting, First telephone line to the Great Hall. 1957 – 112 campers – Purchase of the present Loon, at a cost of $4800. 1958 – 108 campers – 30^th year – Forestry Patrol started by Art Seamons. 1959 – 118 campers – First Mercury sailboat purchased, Tennis bang board built, Farmhouse roof reshingled.