Owned and operated by Godman Guild Association, Camp Mary Orton is utilized as a natural arena for a variety of Guild programs. In order to know who we are, one must first look into the Guild’s history.

In the late 1800s, immigrants settled in a tough area of Columbus known as Flytown to labor in nearby factories. Opportunities for children were slim.

The plight of these troubled youth caught the attention of Anna Keagle, a North High school teacher, who sought help from The Ohio State University. In 1898, the First Neighborhood Guild was established, housing the neighborhood’s first library and offering structured English classes, public baths, sewing and social clubs, and a kindergarten. In 1900, Henry Godman, owner of the Godman Shoe Company, made a generous donation and the Guild moved to a larger facility known as the Godman Guild House.

In 1910, Mrs. Annetta Johnson St. Gaudens donated 11 acres of land in the Flint Ridge area in order for the city children, “to love the trees and wildflowers and beasts of the soil.” Camp Johnson provided a summer refuge to the Flytown residents, with the objective of promoting good health. During the 1920s, other generous donations allowed Godman Guild to expand the camp to its present 167 acres. Edward Orton, Jr., an active Guild board member, contributed proceeds from his late wife’s estate. The lodge at Camp Mary Orton was built in her honor.

Today, Camp Mary Orton has greatly expanded its services to include the Greater Columbus private and corporate sectors. Our adventure activities complement the Guild’s mission to empower the individual, strengthen families and foster community.