A Camp Story from 1964 - Long Before Chlorine

As many of you know, Hashomer Hatzair has been around for over 100 years—but our iconic pool at Camp Shomria has only been with us for about 60.

Today, we’re excited to share a memory from Josh Tabak of Garin Lahav, who joined the movement in 1964—back before the pool was built. On hot summer days, Shomrimot would head down to Lake Marie to swim and cool off in the wild beauty of nature.

Josh recalls one unforgettable erev when all of Mosh was divided into three groups: the British, the Palestinian Natives, and the Jews. They reenacted the dramatic stories of Aliyah Bet—the underground immigration movement where Jews were smuggled into pre-state Israel. The “Jews” had to secretly cross the lake, while the other teams tried to stop them. It was a night filled with learning, imagination, and meaning.

Stories like these remind us of the legacy we carry—and why places like Camp Shomria continue to be so important for shaping future generations of engaged, thoughtful Jewish leaders.

Do you have a memory to share? We’d love to hear it—just reply to this email or tag us on social media.