Honoring the Legacy: The Bethlehem Caddie Camp Memorial in New Hampshire

Nestled amidst the picturesque White Mountains of New Hampshire, the town of Bethlehem holds a unique piece of history that resonates with many: the Bethlehem Caddie Camp Memorial. This isn’t just a monument; it’s a testament to a bygone era, a place of growth, and a poignant reminder of the lives touched by the New England caddie camps.

For decades, particularly from the early 20th century well into the mid-century, golf caddie camps dotted the New England landscape. These weren’t just summer jobs; for many young men, often from inner cities like Boston, they were transformative experiences. The Maplewood Caddy Camp in Bethlehem, servicing the grand Maplewood Hotel golf course, was a prime example. Here, boys learned not only the intricacies of the game but also valuable life lessons: discipline, responsibility, teamwork, and the satisfaction of honest work. They earned money, often to help support their families, and breathed in the crisp mountain air, a stark contrast to their urban environments.

The Bethlehem Caddie Camp Memorial, also known as the “Our Lady of the Fairways” Shrine, stands as a beautiful tribute to these young caddies. Built in 1958, the shrine features a marble Madonna statue set within a serene brick grotto, reflecting the often-Catholic heritage of many of the campers. In 2015, a Caddie Camp Alumni Memorial plaque was added, bearing a moving inscription: “To the traveler along this way… to the weary who would pause along the way to rest… to the family or group or party that would linger to rest and pray… to any and all this roadside haven is dedicated with the hope that its beauty and serenity shall be as a warm handclasp of a friend to a friend.” This sentiment perfectly captures the spirit of camaraderie and the enduring impact these camps had.

The memorial is more than just a historical marker; it’s a touchstone for those who lived the caddie camp experience. Reunions have been held at the site, bringing together men who shared those formative summers, reminiscing about the challenges, the friendships, and the invaluable lessons learned on the greens of Bethlehem.

Today, while the grand hotels and the bustling caddie camps of yesteryear are largely gone, the Bethlehem Caddie Camp Memorial ensures that this unique chapter of New Hampshire’s history, and the thousands of young lives it shaped, will not be forgotten. It’s a quiet, reflective spot that invites visitors to pause, appreciate the scenic beauty, and consider the remarkable stories of those who carried golf bags and, in doing so, carried themselves into adulthood.

So, the next time you find yourself in Bethlehem, New Hampshire, take a moment to visit the Caddie Camp Memorial. It’s a small but significant piece of American history, a tribute to hard work, camaraderie, and the enduring power of a summer in the mountains.

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