Charlie Hanscomb was synonymous with Camp Fuller in the 1940’s and 1950’s. During his time at Fuller, he brought a sense of compassion, spirit and respect for Native Americans.  Among his many contributions to camp were the formation of the Apache Honor Society and the recruitment of Mary Glasgow (Red Wing) as a staff member.  Charlie’s Native American roots and heritage became part of the Camp Fuller culture, much of which is woven into the fabric of camp today as seen by the presence of The Council.

His compassion for those less fortunate brought children with disabilities to Camp Fuller.  He also worked with the state court system to bring boys to camp who had been marginalized.  He knew that a positive camp experience would bring friendships and much needed role models to these young campers.  

During his retirement, while living in Florida, Charlie spent countless hours creating artifacts which brought him back to his heritage.  His daughter, Laurie donated this headdress to Camp Fuller in Charlie’s memory.  This headdress was one of his prized creations.  

In her own words, Laurie gave us the background of this magnificent headdress:

“My dad carried immense pride in his Native American heritage. Our family is part of the Mohawk tribe, a lineage he honored throughout his life. As he neared his 85th birthday, he began crafting a traditional headdress to commemorate his life’s journey. He explained that, in his tribe, it is customary for elders to create their own headdress later in life. With extraordinary patience and devotion, he hand-sewed each bead and carefully placed every feather, transforming it into a remarkable work of art.”

Laurie understood her father’s love of Camp Fuller and felt the best place for this magnificent artifact would be in the new Avie Avedesian Welcome Center for many to see and study.  We know how proud Charlie would be seeing this headdress on full display back at Camp Fuller.

Charlie, his wife Nancy and older daughter Holly’s ashes were brought back to Camp Fuller and spread in the Council Ring.  They are now truly a part of the spirit of Camp Fuller.  Welcome Home.