Postcard from Fanny Bailey Olcott Girl Scout Camp in 1946

This postcard was mailed on Aug. 12, 1946 — 80 years ago today. It shows a group of girls walking by the sign for Fanny Bailey Olcott Girl Scout Camp in Fayal Township, just outside Eveleth.

The namesake of the camp was born Virginia Bailey, and became known as Fanny Olcott after marrying William J. Olcott in 1887. Mr. Olcott went on to great financial success as a mining and railroad executive. The couple established the Olcott Lodge on Half Moon Lake in 1925 as a gathering place for Oliver Mining Company wives. It was turned over to the Girl Scouts in 1931 and ceased operation in the 1960s.

The caption on the back of the card reads:

Duluth Girl Scout Camp
Fanny Bailey Olcott
on Half Moon Lake
Eveleth, Minnesota

The card was sent to Mrs. Robert Mason of Mount Pleasant, Iowa, apparently from a grandchild. The sender’s name is too difficult to read.

Gammie,
Yesterday we went to the Mesabi Iron Range. Tomorrow we are going to have a banquet. I am trying for a green cap. I have one more handful of (sand?) to pick up.