Sgt. Jacalyn Sticha, Minnesota State Patrol
July 9, 2013
Find out what's happening in Northfieldfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Legionville School Patrol Training Camp
Find out what's happening in Northfieldfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Question: Is there still a Legionville Camp near Brainerd, MN?
Answer: Yes, Legionville has survived the many years. Legionville School Patrol Training Camp is where students are taught the fundamentals of school patrol and school bus patrol safety. It is located just north of Brainerd, and operated by the American Legion with MN State Patrol Troopers and College Students as instructors. It is believed to be the only such camp in the world.
This summer Legionville is celebrating 75 years. It has actually been 77 years, but because of World War II, the camp did not run in 1942 and 1943. The ‘old barn’ is gone and a new one is being constructed and should be completed for the 2014 Legionville Camp.
School Patrol began in 1920, when Sister Carmella asked older school boys to help the younger students cross the streets near the school in St. Paul.
Earle Brown, former MN Governor and Minnesota Highway Patrol Chief, formalized the program, with the Highway Patrol (Minnesota State Patrol) involved with the instruction, at his farm in the Twin Cities. American Legion records show training locations also included the Crow Wing County Fairgrounds and Camp Ripley.
The campers enjoy a variety of courses beyond school patrol training: first aid training, swimming, and canoeing, to name a few. The camp is a very active place with talent shows, bonfires, picnics, and organized sports. Legionville Camp is inexpensive and scholarships are available each year through schools, MN State Patrol Troopers Association, your American Legion Post, or other local organizations who may be interested. A camper does not have to be sent or designated by the school - parents and community groups may send children who are involved in school patrol or are eligible to become a patroller. Come enjoy a week with us!
For more information check out the Legionville website: http://www.legionville.org/. Thanks for asking.
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