On April 25th, 1967, forty five local camping enthusiasts met
at the Pioneer
Engine Company meeting room. District Directors of the National Campers &
Hikers Association were present as well as Hudson Valley District
representatives. Some of the campers were already members of the NCHA and
the remainder joined at that time. We were then able to form our own
chapter.
The first presidents elected were Bob and Betty Dawson. At the next meeting,
May 23,1967, the name of Shongum Shockers was chosen. Our logo includes a
lightning bolt, coffee pot, tent & trailer. The colors are orange, white and
emerald green.
Our chapter was received on September 16,1967 at the Hudson Valley District
campout at Croton-On-Hudson.
The first meeting held at the Wawarsing Sportmens clubhouse was on November
28, 1967. Out of that meeting came the welcomed news that we could use a
cabin and surrounding grounds located within the property of the WSA.
Guidelines were adopted and when in place many good years and happy times as
well as lasting friendships were made. Over the years The Shongum Shockers
improved the cabin to include bathrooms, a small kitchen, eating area,
sitting area and screened in porch. Complete water and electric hookups were
added as well as a dumping station. We have hosted many camping weekends
both large and small, often using the clubhouse facilities atthe WSA for
banquets and our annual penny social, with most of the proceeds going to the
parent club to help pay land taxes and other maintenance expenses for our
area.
At -present our members attend most of the District, State and National
conventions of the NCHA, now known as the Family Campers and Recreational
Vehicles (FCRV) and actively participate in all functions. We welcome ail,to
join us who love camping and the out of doors and contributing to charity
projects, good times and friendly get-togethers. As a requirement, each
family is a joint member of the Wawarsing Sportsmens Association or as it is
now known, The Wawarsing Rod and Gun Club. We consider ourselves a welcome
and valuable division of
this fine club. |
