About
About Camp Mary Orton
A place to learn, explore and grow!
Our mission is to strengthen families and communities by providing opportunities for personal growth, a place to experience nature and respite, and a resource that contributes to the mission of Godman Guild.
Dear Friends,
We have been serving children and families since 1898 and at Camp Mary Orton since 1910! We serve children, families, schools, communities, and partners. When you choose Camp Mary Orton to host your next event, you’re not only guaranteeing a memorable occasion for your guests, but you’re making a much larger impact on the Columbus community. When you choose to send your child to summer camp, host your next meeting, or hold your wedding at Camp Mary Orton, you’re helping to provide an enriching summer experience for an at-risk youth in Columbus, who otherwise would be unable to participate in everything a magical place like camp offers. Feel free to explore the flexible options Camp Mary Orton has to offer using the menu at the top of each page. Of course, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. Thank you for your interest in Camp Mary Orton!
Sincerely,
Toni M. Cunningham
Godman Guild President & CEO
OUR HISTORY
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.
Help Our Community
Your financial gift helps us continue a legacy of providing education and personal growth for children on the beautiful grounds of Camp Mary Orton.