A Delta institution was established 100 years ago as it was carved out of the hills of Tallahatchie County – Camp Tallaha. The Boy Scout camp served the Scouts across the Delta and even though it’s rich history as a camp ended in 2003, the memories and adulation continue. On September 19th, the Chickasaw Council that now oversees Delta-area Boy Scouts will gather at Camp Currier in Hernando (9700 W. Commerce St.) to see old friends, retell tall tales, remember those who made the camp, the infamous location, and celebrate a century of Camp Tallaha.
Paul Townsend IV is heading up the event and in his Facebook post said, “Friday, September 19th at 5:30 in the new dining hall at Camp Currier, we are going to have a Tallaha reunion-celebration. This is going to be free to attend but we do need everyone to register. It is open to everybody. You may bring a spouse or anyone else who wants to come. If you are not currently registered with the Scouts, click on Chickasaw Council to register under Troop 00 in the registration link. We plan on having some historical displays of memorabilia from Camp Tallaha and Delta Area Council, along with a meal around 6:00. We want this to be a time to socialize and reconnect with old friends. We will also have the opportunity to visit the new Chiefs Lodge that has recently been constructed at Camp Currier. This new Chiefs Lodge will eventually display Koi-Hatachie, Chickasah and Ahoalan-Nachpikin memorabilia. Please spread the word to everybody you can think of. We want to have a nice turnout to show the love for Camp Tallaha.”
Go to this link for the event, https://scoutingevent.com/558-103633-239690?fbclid=IwY2xjawMttApleHRuA2…. I’m hoping there will be a Zoom of the event so we can hear the stories and razzing of campers and Scoutmasters and relive moments of our Scouting youth.
I spent time from 1975 to 1982 at Camp Tallaha, including four years as a staff member. During my first year, I was a Commissioner Assistant or something like that. In 1977, I earned $20 a week, but I had free room and board along with three square meals a day and snacks to spare! I can't remember if it was my first or second year, but I was promoted to Dining Hall Supervisor or a similar title. Essentially, I managed two dishwashers and handled weekly food inventories. That raise took me to $50 a week, and I got all the cheese and crackers I could eat, along with snack boxes of Frosted Flakes. One of the best perks was spending time in the walk-in fridge/freezer during those 90-100 degree days with 100% humidity. It was the small things that made it memorable and enjoyable.
There are plenty of stories to tell, hear, and enjoy. Click the link and let’s hear yours! Oh, and don’t forget your buddy tag.
