Old Mastic Camp

The Camp served many functions throughout its history.

NPS/Sucena

"Thank you for an ancestral, historical, ghostly, romantic, fragrant and wholesome weekend."

- Jean Rose Kritzer, Old Mastic Guestbook, June 16, 1928 

As a summer retreat for hunting and leisure in the 20th century it was not unusual for the Floyds to have 25-30 guests visiting at any given point of the summer season. Guests could choose a room in Old Mastic or "camp” out in the building before you.  

This building was originally constructed around 1899 as a storage building for the kitchen. It was built just steps away from the Old House, near the kitchen and bedroom doors to your left.  

Around 1921, the structure was moved to its current location. It became a place to house guests and servants travelling with the family. Cornelia, who inherited the estate in 1903 with her brother William, and their sister Rosalie, posted their rules for their guests.  

Some of the more interesting rules and messages include: 

• The guests in charge of this establishment were chosen because of their affability, adaptability, and capability. Any dissatisfaction should be at once reported to the mismanagement. 
• The Old House can best be set on fire by dropping a lamp; carrying candles is monotonously safe. 
• Ladies are requested to have their rooms made up by eleven o’clock A.M. A mop will be found in the corner closet. Guests may choose dirt or work. 
• The unusual guest is silently impervious to mosquitoes.