By Darin Gemmer | Camp Indianola, Director
The History
When Camp Indianola was founded in 1957 by Seattle First United Methodist Church, it was simply called the “church camp at Indianola.” Through the years it has been called Indianola Camp and Conference Center (or Retreat Center) and, more recently, simply Camp Indianola.
Likewise, over our 58 year history, the buildings and spaces of the camp have held many names. The original building was just called “the Lodge” or occasionally “Downie Lodge” after John Downie, the young man who sparked the vision for the camp to be founded. For the last few decades it has been called Totem Lodge (though many still call it “the Lodge”). The bunkhouses in the woods were simply called Bunkhouse 1 and Bunkhouse 2.
Around the time that the dining hall and the adult retreat lodge were built, the main buildings received new names. Mowich, Ehkole, and Chak Chak were Native American names for local wildlife (deer, whale, and eagle respectively), Potlatch was named after an important Native American celebration, and Totem joined the theme based on the large, beautiful carving that has called the lodge home for many years.
A Tradition of Honor
The Native American themed names were initially chosen to honor the legacy and connection of our site with local tribal history. Our understanding of that history continues to grow along with our connection with the Suquamish Tribe. While the original intent 30 years ago was good, those names are no longer perceived as honoring by those whom we intended to honor. For many complicated reasons, it has become clear that a change is necessary.
New Names, Same Incredible Experience
In January of 2015, the Camp Indianola Site Advisory Team met and agreed that name changes were in order. In keeping with our beautiful surrounding, they decided that a tree theme was appropriate. All of the names selected are types that can be found on site and in close proximity to each building. We think the new names are wonderfully appropriate to each building. We hope you agree.
Naming issues can be very complicated. Just ask the Washington Redskins football franchise.
And what do you do when a portion of the honored group likes a name and a portion does not? Clearly the Board of Directors have made a wise choice under whatever circumstances prevail at the present time. Thanks for letting us know.
It appears that the Washington football team will not move as quickly to remove the offensive name and images.