Every year since 1957, children from all over Minnesota have gathered at Legionville, a summer camp outside of Brainerd. There, they learn about safety on land and water. The kids also have fun in the process.
Minnesota’s School Patrol program dates back to the early 1930s. Its purpose was to teach kids about pedestrian safety by having them serve as crossing guards. By 1937, the Minnesota Legion was hosting an annual training session for participants. Local police and sheriff departments collaborated with the Legion.
In 1953, the Legion selected a site on the shores of North Long Lake to host a permanent training camp for the children in the School Patrol program. The mission of Legionville has expanded since then to cover water safety, bicycle safety, and First Aid.
Over the years, Post 77 has received many thank you notes from Legionville attendees. The children invariably describe the camp as great fun and report having a good time. Swimming and canoeing on the lake have been especially popular.
