Memories of Hyde Mansion
Diana Fenn Shultz’s connection to Pine Tree Camp goes all the way back to the end of World War II. At the time, her mother and aunts owned the historic Hyde Mansion in Bath. Just after World War II, the Hyde sisters gave the mansion to Pine Tree Society to serve as a rehabilitation and convalescent home for Maine children with disabilities. The 21-room mansion was ideal for Pine Tree Society’s needs, particularly during the polio epidemic in the late 1940s. Located on 23 acres of woods and fields, the facility included a greenhouse, an indoor swimming pool for hydrotherapy, classrooms, an elevator to accommodate wheelchairs, a converted ballroom for occupational therapy and a full medical staff.
“I was born in 1938 and grew up in Bath,” said Diana. “I can remember going to the home and seeing the youngsters. I was about 9 years old and it really hit home with me.”
Memories of Hyde Mansion
Pine Tree Society’s executive director, Marie Preston, was a tireless disability advocate. In 1945, Marie founded Pine Tree Camp; deepening the connection with not just Diana’s family but also with the family of her future husband, Jack. Marie Preston was friends with Diana’s grandmother and lived with her in Belgrade Lakes during the summer. Jack’s grandmother also had a summer camp on Great Pond and his family would often give boat rides to campers so they could enjoy being out on the water.
“As young people, Jack and I were both involved in seeing what Pine Tree Camp did.
It’s always been a special place to us. Both of my parents were on the board and I was very fortunate to realize kids of all abilities could go to camp.”
Summer camp means a lot to Diana personally.
“I went to summer camp in Damariscotta and I loved the camp experience. My fondness for camp friendships and the camp experience is so strong with me. I absolutely loved it. It was a wonderful experience. I love what Pine Tree Camp does and it’s so exciting to be able to see kids being campers for a week and enjoy what I enjoyed at my own summer camp.”
When she visits Pine Tree Camp, she particularly loves seeing the accessible treehouse and the waterfront.
“The swim area is absolutely gorgeous. The sandy beach and the peacefulness of looking out over the lake reminds me of the camp I went to. Even if there aren’t any children in the water when I visit, I can still visualize the fun they’re having because I remember the fun we had as kids.”
The very best part for Diana is listening to the campers greeting one another when they first arrive.
Share your story
