Updated January 14, 2014: The History List Guide to Summer Camps and Programs at Historic Sites and Institutions is compiled annually based on summer camps and programs that organizations have add to The History List.  The 2013 guide is here.

Introducing “The History List Guide to Summer Camps and Programs at Historic Sites and Institutions.”

To participate, simply add your event for kids using the “Add events” link above and check the “Summer camp or program” box near the bottom of the form when you enter your event.

To start, you’ll need to be signed in.  For immediate access, sign in with Facebook, or you can request a free account on The History List.  (More information on The History List, the calendar system for history organizations.)

Examples

• History Summer Day Camp: Colonial Days
• Three Yesterdays Summer Camp (Grades 1 – 2)

FAQ

• What is the definition of “summer camp or program?”  Any multi-day program for kids.  It doesn’t have to involve tents or include sleeping overnight.  Yes, the icon shows a tent, but it’s not meant to be literal.  (If you can come up with an icon we use instead of this one, we’ll sing your praises and send you a t-shirt.  We tried dozens before settling on this one.  The icon has to be easily recognizable and telegraphic at the very small size we use, and consistent with the design of the site.  If you have one that meets those criteria, send it in.)
• What about the “at historic sites and institutions” part? Similar to our criteria for The History List as a whole, if someone would be puzzled as to why your organization and “camp” are listed here, even after reading the description, then it probably doesn’t belong.
  • We have a traditional sleep-away summer camp in the mountains that’s been in operation in the same place every summer since 1912.  Unless the site is historic in some way or something involving history is a significant part of the summer program, it’s probably not a fit.
  • We have a week-long summer arts program in our National Register-listed property.  Being in that setting one would think that the attendees would gain an appreciation for the historic structure and perhaps the history behind it even if the  program itself doesn’t have anything to do with history.  Many historic properties use special events and programs to generate the revenue necessary to remain viable.  Increasing awareness of those is one of the main goals of The History List, so please add your organization and summer camp.
  • We have a one-day program for kids at our history museum every Friday during the summer.  While that surely must be fun for the children who participate, it’s definitely different than what one expects from a list of camps, which would be programs that are typically four to seven days long.  So list your event, just don’t check the “Camp” box.
• How do I make my program stand out?  Create a complete, detailed listing for your organization and your summer camp, including text, pictures, and even video.  You have essentially unlimited space to add as much as you wish.  Explain your program and answer the key questions parents and kids might have.  There will be a place to include a link to your site for more information.
• How do I report a listing that shouldn’t be included?  Send us a message or click on the “Flag” link at the bottom of the listing.
• I had a great experience at the camp I attended and want to let others know about the program.  Outstanding.  Add your comment in the “Comments” area at the near the bottom of the listing.  Go into detail.  Others who are considering this program will be glad you did.

You’ll find the entire list of summer camps and programs at www.TheHistoryList.com/camps.