Program Director, Graydon L. Stephenson
What is the Colonial Camp?
The mission of the Colonial Camp is to develop the character of Participants in an authentic historic context.
The Colonial Camp is a year-round colonial-American Program. The Colonial Camp provides opportunities to the interested public to experience the 1770s by living it firsthand. Participants may select daytime programs, where they execute crafts and activities. Overnight programs are also offered; Participants not only experience the crafts and activities, but also the lifestyle.
Testimonials
“Many students said their favorite activity was candle making and some of them went home that night and lit the candle they made. The Staff complimented Vanguard students, staff and volunteeers for helping the day run so smoothly. On behalf of everyone at The Vanguard School, we thank the Colonial Camp for coming to Vanguard for such an educational and fun adventure.” Erica, The Vanguard School Intern
“On behalf of our Cub Scout pack, thanks for helping to keep our American culture alive. We had a great time. Thanks again.” Mike, Scout Leader
“I really enjoyed the Colonial Camp. I especially liked making the necklaces and climbing the monkey bridge. Dressing up like colonial people was fun also. I learned alot of new things about life in that time period. Thank you!” Michelle, Elementary School Student
“First, my sincere thanks for warmly taking care of my daughter Maya when she jumped into your camp activities totally unsolicited and unscheduled. I and my wife were very impressed with your activities and thought it is an excellent idea to teach American history to children. I personally think that you camp’s concept also can apply to teaching history to Japanese children. I’ll check your website every now and then, and who knows, we might send both our daughter and son to your camp next summer! My gratitude also to Miss Jill, Miss Kelly, and Miss Debbie.” Tashio, Summer Program Parent
Graydon with Sen. Elizabeth Dole
Origins
In the early 2000s, Graydon Stephenson, and his family, took a brave step toward a long-time dream; they started a traveling colonial-American program for participants who wanted to experience life during the colonial period.
The Colonial Camp has grown by leaps and bounds each year.
Today, the Colonial Camp is a busy enterprise with several full-time and part-time staff. Over 15,000 individuals participate in a Colonial Camp program each year.
Graydon received a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from North Carolina State University, and a Master of Arts in Ancient Near Eastern History from Harding University. Laura Stephenson has a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. Both Graydon and Laura have decades of experience working with young people and families.
Graydon and Laura Stephenson have been married since 1981, and they have three children: Daniel, is pursuing a Ph.D. in economics at Texas A&M; David, an honors student at Campbell University majoring in criminal justice; and Jasrah, a nursing student at Central Carolina Community College. The entire family is actively involved in the Colonial Camp and are avid students of colonial history.
Media Relations
If you would like more information, contact us any time.
Huzzah for the Colonial Camp!
