History of property
FireFly Woods, prior to its inception in June 2024, was the historic Camp Roosevelt Firebird, a beloved summer camp established in 1918. For over a century, this camp provided a nurturing environment where children could explore nature, develop new skills, and create lasting memories. The camp’s rich history is marked by its commitment to fostering community, resilience, and a love for the outdoors. As FireFly Woods emerges, it carries forward this legacy, blending tradition with new adventures for future generations.
Camp Roosevelt-Firebird
The Birth of a Legacy
The story begins in 1918 when William L. "Dub" Lorimer established Camp Roosevelt for Boys in Perry, Ohio, on the shores of Lake Erie. Initially aimed at preparing boys for service in World War I, it grew into something much more. Over the years, the Lorimer family expanded their vision, creating a network of camps known as "The Lorimer Family of Camps."
A New Home at Leesville Lake
In 1954, Bill Lorimer purchased land on Leesville Lake and established Camp Firebird for Girls. The property, originally a farm owned by the Preston family, had a rich history of its own, including being a stop on the Underground Railroad. The 1930s saw the damming of Maguire Creek to create Leesville Lake, transforming the landscape.
The Evolution of Camp Roosevelt-Firebird
In 1987, due to the construction of a nuclear power plant near the original Camp Roosevelt, the boys' camp was moved to Leesville Lake, merging with Camp Firebird to create a co-ed summer camp experience. The camp continued to thrive under various ownerships, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2018.
The Final Chapter of a Beloved Institution
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Camp Roosevelt-Firebird continued to inspire and educate young people for several more years. However, in August 2023, after 105 years of operation, the camp closed its doors for the final time. The decision to close was not taken lightly, but it marked the end of an era in Ohio camping history.
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A New Beginning: FireFly Woods
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In the wake of Camp Roosevelt-Firebird's closure, a new vision emerged for this historic property. FireFly Woods Lodging and Events was established to preserve the natural beauty and rich heritage of the site while offering new opportunities for visitors to create lasting memories. Our goal at FireFly Woods is to honor the legacy of Camp Roosevelt-Firebird while providing modern amenities and diverse experiences for our guests. Whether you're here for a family reunion, a corporate retreat, or a weekend getaway, you'll find echoes of the past blended seamlessly with contemporary comfort. As you explore our grounds, you might notice the historic Preston barn dating back to the 1890s, or the dining hall and lodge that once floated across the lake to find their home here. These structures, along with the surrounding forest and lake, tell a story of resilience, adaptation, and the enduring human spirit. At FireFly Woods, we're not just offering a place to stay – we're inviting you to become part of a continuing story. A story that began over a century ago with a summer camp and now continues with each guest who finds joy, relaxation, and inspiration in these woods by the lake. We welcome you to FireFly Woods, where history meets hospitality, and new traditions are waiting to be made.