At 5:30pm, on Saturday, September 30, 2023, attendees of the Fall Hike Weekend gathered at the Ranger’s Shop to recognize Peter Scott Oberdorf for initiating and funding the restoration of the Hermitage Gates (stone walls adjacent to the shop).

Tom Dietz spoke about how Peter has supported Camp Read for 72 years, and the Camp Read Association since its inception 34 years ago. 

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Tom Dietz's Remarks

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Peter has been at Camp Read every year since 1951.  He is one of the founding fathers who organized the first 3 reunions at camp (1979, 84, & 89), and the formation of the “formal” Association in 1989.  Peter has served the Association in many capacities including President (3rd.), Legal Consultant, and Advisor.  He has also spearheaded and funded several other projects in support of preserving the historical structures at camp, including the Boland Lodge restoration.  Peter has worn many hats at Camp as well, from Camper to Scoutmaster; and from Waterfront to Reservation Director.  He was also my Swimming Merit Badge Instructor (I was 13), and a lifelong friend. Thanks, Peter, for all you do!

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Reid T. Reynold's Remarks

I Wouldn't Be Here Were It Not for Peter

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I wouldn’t be here were it not for Peter. With a recommendation from Dan Rile, my Wyandot scoutmaster, I got a job as Senior Patrol Leader here in 1958. Peter was my Scoutmaster; Micky Venuti was his assistant. Peter, Mickey, and I had lunch together last Monday at Peter’s place on Schroon Lake. How many troop leadership teams have stayed in touch for 65 years? Not many. But then there are few who have done so much for Camp Read and its alumni association as Peter!

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I suspect many of us come back to Read from time to time because our time here had an important impact on who we became. With Peter’s guidance, I learned what leadership by example looked like. I learned that boys and men of diverse backgrounds and talents could not only get along: we could pitch a tent and cook a meal together; we could grow together; we could have fun together!

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Now, in our waning years, we can look back together, enjoy each other’s company, and celebrate what Camp Read has been for thousands of men and boys. We can do what we can to ensure that future generations of men and boys can experience the benefits of scouting and the wonders of the outdoors here at Camp Read.

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Thank you, Peter!