Camp Tosebo was established in 1912 by Noble Hill who was at that time Headmaster of Todd School for Boys in Woodstock, lllinois. From the old name of the school, TOdd SEminary for BOys, was adopted the name TOSEBO.  As a private camp, many of the boys came directly from the school, but soon the reputation of the program attracted boys from all over the country.

TOSEBO boys would travel by Greyhound bus or Lake ferry or family car to enjoy the summer at beautiful Portage Lake.  The Hill family operated TOSEBO from 1912 to 1962 passing down the traditions from Nobel Hill to his daughter Carol Fawcett and then to his grandson Ross Taylor.  The Todd School closed in 1953, but Camp Tosebo continued with its eight week summer program.  After fifty years of ownership the camp was sold to the Tonkins who continued the established camp programs and brought their own expertise until their retirement in 1972.  The Allmands took over the camp and Tosebo continued until finally closing in 1977. 

TOSEBO history could fill a library, but we think there's a better way to experience the old traditions of the camp.  The pictures in the album below attempt to give you a sense of how much of TOSEBO has been preserved.  Whatever the season, enjoy the surroundings and let your imagination take you back to the wonderful time of “summer camp.”

View the slide show

© Copyright Camp Tosebo, 2004.

CAMP TOSEBO
Is this a familiar scene to you? If you attended Camp Tosebo, we'd love to hear from you. Check out our alumni page for more information.