The Blue Hill community has lost one of its greatest treasures. The recent passing of Francis T. Nichols marks the end of a generous man’s life. In 1963, Nichols had a vision of developing programs that would provide area children with the necessary swimming skills to be able to safely enjoy the water that surrounds the Blue Hill Peninsula. He gathered together a board of volunteer trustees and formed an organization, Blue Hill Society for Aid to Children.

The first camp, for 6- to 12-year olds, was formed and named Nichols Day Camp. This camp’s emphasis was to teach children how to swim and how to handle canoes, rowboats and sailboats. A respect for the environment was nurtured. Countless area children have developed a lifelong appreciation for the water and the environment, thanks to Nichols’ generosity.

In 1972, Summer Adventure began. This program was a continuation of the day camp program, providing opportunities for the children to experience the great outdoors of Maine. Nichols even bought the vans used to transport campers to these wilderness areas.

Scamp Camp came along in 1976. Small children, ages 4 to 6, were given the chance to develop their lifelong interest in the outdoors through this program. Scamp Camp was the stepping stone to Nichols Day Camp, which in turn gave the children the necessary skills for overnight camping adventures for the Summer Adventure program.

All of us at Blue Hill Society for Aid to Children will strive to provide outstanding camping experiences for the peninsula area children and will attempt to measure up to and go beyond the standards that Nichols set for us. We have all been touched by greatness in our association with such a wonderfully generous man. Candy Eaton Executive director and trustrees of Blue Hill Society for Aid to Children