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The Georgia 4-H Program began as the Boys Corn
Clubs in 1904 with 105 members. By the mid 1940's, enrollment in
the University of Georgia 4-H Program had grown to over 130,000
members. Bill Sutton, State 4-H Leader from 1945 until 1954, envisioned
a Georgia 4-H Center where 1000 boys and girls could enjoy a week
of education and fun. In 1948 the Georgia 4-H Foundation was chartered,
and funds received went to establish a State 4-H Club Center.
It was suggested by Red Smith, Putnam County
Extension Agent, that Rock Eagle Park would make a good location
for the Center and, in August of 1951, ground breaking ceremonies
were held. Skilled prison labor was provided by Governor Herman Talmadge
in 1952, as well as a pledge to match a state dollar for every private
dollar raised.
During the early years of construction, the
Georgia 4-H Foundation operated a snack bar and later a restaurant
in this building where local people often ate lunch. When the 4-H
Center first opened in March of 1955, the meals were prepared in
this building and transported to what is now Sutton Dining Hall.
As the 4-H Center began to accommodate more users the restaurant
was eventually closed.
This building served as an overflow for summer
campers during the 1960's and 70's. Until the early 1990's it
was used for staff housing for the rapidly-growing 4-H Environmental
Education program. New staff facilities were constructed and
the old "Lake Lodge"
(as it was called by its residents) became a storage facility.
In 1996 the Georgia 4-H Program decided to renovate the old restaurant,
or "Lake Lodge", to honor those who gave significant time, talent
and energy to the inception, construction and early development
of Rock Eagle 4-H Center.
Founders Lodge will be used by adult groups
for leadership and team-building meetings as well as business
retreats.
For more information or reservations,
please contact Terri Camp at 706-484-2868, or email at reagle@uga.edu
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