Father William Kane, pastor of Saint Patrick Parish in Youngstown, started a camp at Lake Milton in 1928, primarily for the children of the parish. Eventually, the 120-acre camp became a diocesan facility (named in Father Kane’s honor) for children aged 8 to 16 from across the six-county diocese. In 1970, the diocese added three Family Camp Weeks to the three boys’ weeks and three girls’ weeks. That first year, the season saw 36 parents and 130 children. The idea proved so popular that more Family Weeks were added. Twelve families at a time enjoyed campfires, outdoor Masses, swimming, tennis, craft sessions, talent shows, hikes, ball games and movies in a happy mix of “recreation, religion and relaxation.” Professional cooks prepared and cleaned up meals, so there were no kitchen chores, which helps explain how this group could sit to bask in the sun.
