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	Updated April 9, 2009


	Chocorua Island is the site of America’s first resident boys’ summer camp. Established in 1881 by Mr. Ernest Balch, it operated until 1889.


	Religious services were a vital part of the camp’s activity. In 1903 a group of Mr. Balch’s relatives and former campers organized the Chocorua Chapel Association “for the purpose of religious services according to the form of the Protestant Episcopal Church.” Mr. Clinton Crane, the owner of the island, made it available for worship services and in 1928 he generously donated it to the Association for that sole purpose.

		For 38 years, Dr. Clifford Twombly, one of the founders of the Association, conducted services. Since 1941, they have been led by clergy of various denominations, many being summer residents of the Squam area. A list of preachers and pictures of the original boys’ summer camp are in the Memorial Book near the entrance to the chapel.

			Sunday services are held from late June to early September every year.

		Private Services may be held on the island.


	The Chapel Association permits the quiet, limited use of Chocorua Island by visitors willing to respect it as a religious sanctuary. The island is not to be used for recreational or social activities. Parties or alcoholic beverages are not allowed at any time. The island docks are closed between sunset and sunrise.

	The Chocorua Chapel Association is over 100 years old. The number of people dedicated to its care and operation has grown and the desire for natural simplicity has endured. Necessary island upkeep is ongoing and will always be a priority for the Association. We intend that our chapel will outlive all of us.

	The Trustees of the Association request the help of all in preserving Chocorua Island for the purpose for which it was donated.

			Chocorua Island Chapel Association P.O. Box 356 Holderness NH 03245 Tel: 603-968-7931