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Since
1945...
People have come to see God work in
their lives and in the lives of those around them at Pineywoods.
When in August of
1945 the Executive Board of District II of the Baptist General
Convention of Texas purchased 18 acres in Woodlake for $9,000,
the miracles were just beginning.
The churches and pastors in the supporting area took it upon
themselves to make sure the property was usable by the summer of 1946.
Major repair or remodeling was needed in each of the three original
structures (Main Dorm, Tabernacle, and a building used as a kitchen and
dining hall), plus there was equipment to be bought and land to be cleared.
Though it seemed rather formidable, countless hours of volunteer work from
area lay people and pastors made the dream of Pineywoods a realization.
...And
so it began.
Pictures
of the first summer are not available to us, but this photo from the boys camp of 1952
gives a good idea of what the Tabernacle looked like in the early days. The 1st camp
season at Pineywoods boasted 842 people in attendance with 72 decisions; 11 conversions,
16 re-dedications, and 45 for vocational ministry. The program was very missions
oriented, and stressed holiness in a believers life.
A
"modern" swimming pool was
one of the the
major attractions beginning in 1950. This $23,000 endeavor proved
itself to be a good investment as it became the most popular pastime at the
camp. Along with several new buildings, the decision was made to dam
an existing ravine to create a 10- acre lake that became a favorite for
campfire services and canoeing. These additions along with the
tireless work of the volunteers from around the area helped bring the camp
into its own as a growing ministry.
Camp was different then. For example,
the campers paid $9.50 for the entire week with food and lodging or they
could come for FREE if they camped out and cooked their own meals.
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