[From "The Camp Herald, Season 1934"]

The Cunningham Holiday Camp,

THE CUNNINGHAM HOLIDAY CAMP once again presents the Camp Herald as a reminder to the fortunate ones who have tested the joys of a stay there that the time is ripe for booking their places for 1934. And to those who have not yet spent a holiday at "The Finest Place on Earth for a Holiday," the Camp Herald attempts in the following pages to give some idea of the delights they have been missing.

Last season continued the success of previous years, and the usual thousands of young men from all over the British Isles (with a few from abroad) enjoyed a glorious holiday at the Camp. The exceptionally fine weather was a great asset at all holiday-resorts, and the beneficial effect of 1933 holidays was not only felt, but was visible in the bronzed faces of the happy throngs. While we are all thankful for such a fine summer, and are hoping that 1934 will prove as kind, the Cunningham Holiday Camp is so well provided with facilities enabling the Campers to have a splendid time even in wet weather, and without leaving the precincts of the Camp, that overcast skies have ceased to cause the feelings of dismay- that overcome the ordinary holiday-maker w ho does not enjoy the privilege of staying at the Camp. There are no gloomy days there.

The Cunningham Holiday-Camp, or as it is aptly being termed by the Campers " The Cunningham Camp Hotel," provides accommodation, and very comfortable accommodation it is, for nearly four thousand young men. This is a notable feat, and it is accomplished without there being any sign of crowding or congestion. The Dining Hall can seat at the one time no fewer than 3,600 people, and this great number is served much more expeditiously than in the best hotels. Yet it is done without any appearance of hurry or bustle, a feat made possible only by the experience and system developed during the forty years of the Camp's existence. Not only is the catering executed thus smoothly and expeditiously, but the quality of the rood provided is excellent, as will be seen in the sample menu to be found in the pages of the Herald, and in the flattering remarks of the Campers, as contained in the small selection of letters printed.

Entrance to the Escalator Cunningham's camp,Douglas
Entrance to the Escalator.

The Camp provide three varieties of sleeping accommodation. There are indoor apartments in Snaefell Mansions, or one can book for a bungalow, and there are tents for those who prefer a nearer approach to real camping. In each case there are normally four Campers to each room or tent, but two or three can reserve a room to themselves if desired. Each Camper has his own comfortable spring bed, and all rooms and tents have electric light. Ample space is provided for the social side of the Camp. In the large Concert Hall, dances and concerts are arranged, and are very- popular. Campers are invited to bring their friends to these functions. Each night at 10-30 o'clock a free Cinema Show (Western Electric Sound System) is provided for the Campers, lasting about an hour before " Lights Out." The Lounges are comfortably furnished with easy chairs, etc., and are provided with quiet games. Small sing-songs are frequently indulged in in one of these rooms. Other games-rooms for miniature golf, table tennis, etc., are available The Swimming Bath is immensely popular. It is heated, and swimming tuition is provided free of charge. There are also private baths and showers.

Escalator Cunningham's camp,Douglas
The Escalator.

 

Avenue Cunningham's camp,Douglas
The Avenue.


The Entrance Hall.

Out of doors, again, everything possible is done to ensure that there need not be a single wasted moment of the Campers' holiday. There are nine Lawn Tennis Courts, three being grass and six hard, and another three are being prepared for the 1934 season. A Football Ground and Cricket Pitch are both in great demand, and the requisite accessories for these games are provided. Then there is the Recreation Ground where weekly sports are held, and adjacent the Miniature Golf Course, etc.

Lack of space prevents a more detailed account of the amenities of the Camp. Suffice it to say that the Campers are universally agreed that the Cunningham Holiday Camp is well worthy of of the title bestowed upon it by one enthusiast-"The Finest Place on Earth for a Holiday."

Nor can room be found for a lengthy description of the Isle of Man, that beautiful spot in the middle of the Irish Sea, "a pearl in a setting of blue," which has attractions not to be found anywhere else in the world. Its charm is its infinite variety. Nowhere else is there to be found such refreshing cascades, alluring glens, splendour of scenery, and invigorating atmosphere, as on this richly endowed Island. To visit it is to feel the joy of living. Spend your days enjoying the beauties of the countryside, and your evenings in Douglas, famous for its bays, its mountainous background, and its indoor pleasure resorts, and you will have such a holiday as no other part of the Kingdom can equal.


Aerial View of the Camp.


Douglas Sands and Promenade from the Camp.

WHY YOU SHOULD STAY AT THE CUNNINGHAM HOLIDAY CAMP. "The Finest Place on Earth for a Holiday." For the new-comer, who has yet to experience what such a holiday means, we have attempted a summary of the advantages and delights available to those wile stay at The Cunningham Holiday Camp. It cannot be complete, and it is impossible to satisfactorily describe in words the holiday spirit that pervades the Camp and Campers; that must be experienced. The magnificent site overlooks Douglas Bay, is away from the rush and turmoil of the busy Promeiiades, and yet is very accessible to them. There is a Motor-Bus Service to the Camp entrance, and the Camp Electric Escalator is only a few yards from the Queen's Promenade.

The Camp Buildings are excellently arranged and most convenient and comfortable. The Sanitary Arrangements are perfect The Dining Hall accommodates over 3,000 at a time, without overcrowding, the occupants of each bungalow or tent having their own table. The Catering is of the very best quality, and is continually varied. The quantity is unlimited. Music during meals is provided by the magificent Camp Orchestra. The Sleeping Accommodation consists of Bungalows and Tents. There are Four Campers to each Bungalow or Tent, each having a separate spring bedstead and comfortable bed. The Tents have wooden floors. Electric Light is fitted in the Bungalows and Tents.

The new Snaefell Mansions provide similar accommodation, but indoors, with lavatories on each floor and other advantages. There is a small extra charge for this accommodation.

A large Concert Hall is provided for games, singsongs, dances, concerts, wireless, etc. Each night there is a first-class Cinema Show (Western Electric Sound Systein) before "lights out."
There is a large Billiard Room, with eight full-size Tables.
An Indoor Badminton Court is available.
There are also a Miniature Golf Course, Table Tennis, and other Indoor Amusements.
There is a comfortable Lounge, heated, for quiet games, etc.
Also a large Reading and Writing Room.
A first-class Hairdressing Department is on the premises.
The Valet Service will see your clothes kept exactly right.
The Swimming Bath is 90 feet long and the water is heated. Showers and Private Baths are also provided.


Douglas Bay and the Camp.

Excellent. Sea Bathing may be enjoyed on the sandy beach immediately in front of the Camp Entrance. There are Twelve Lawn Tennis Courts, nine of them being all-weather hard courts and three grass courts. Tennis Tournaments are held each week for valuable medals.
A nine-acre Sports Field, with Racing Track, is available for outdoor sports and games. There is a Sports Day each week with medals for running, walking, etc.
Nine-hole Golf Course, Putting Green, Bowling Green, etc., adjacent.
From the Roof Promenades may be had the finest view in Douglas.


Onchan Head from the Camp.

An Orchestra is on the spot for alfresco concerts, dances, etc.
Excursions about the Island may be enjoyed at cheap rates by buying special Campers' Railway Tickets at the Camp Office. Cheap Motor Charabanc Trips are also arranged.
There is Free Garage accommodation for MotorCycles and Cycles. Nearly 400 Motor-Cycles were accommodated during last T.T. week.
At The Tuck Shop you can buy anything from a button to a sweater, cigarettes, chocolates, etc., at reasonable prices.
The Camp Bank will take charge of your valuables and spare cash.
Cameras can be hired out and your films developed for you, or you can develop your own in the Photographic Dark Rooms.

These are some of the good things you are able to enjoy when you stay at " The Finest Place on Earth for a Holiday."

 

WHAT THE CAMPERS SAY.


Interior of Tent.

Each year we publish a few of the great, number of letters we receive from Campers expressing thanks: for a good time. It would require many Camp Heralds to contain them all.

Paisley, 21st July, 1933

I wish to thank you for the competely satisfying holiday I enjoyed at the Camp. Coming alone, and for the first time, I was naturally somewhat diffident as to whether I would fit into the scheme of things. W ithin a day I had made fast friends with an Englishman, an Irishman, and a Jew. Add this to the fact that I am a Scotsman, and we have an interesting and surprising situation. This miniature " League of Nations," unlike its more serious prototype, actually did get along together and produced something tangible-a most exhilarating and memorable holiday. The food at the Camp was par excellence, the bungalow clean and comfortable, the service and organisation worthy of the highest recommendation. These, with the efforts of the admirable orchestra, all combined to make the holiday of one's life. The Camp Herald does not exaggerate the kind of holiday to be had at the Cunningham Holiday Camp, the description falls short of what each Camper is able to enjoy. I hope very soon to re-unitewith many of the June 1933 Campers, R. A,


Among the Bungalows.

Whitehaven, 18th August, 1933. Having returned from a ten-day stay at your Camp, I feel I must write to express my appreciation and thanks for the wonderful time you have giver. me. The whole organisation is simply marvellous, the arrangements perfect, and the cuisine leaves nothing further to be desired. The friendly feeling prevailing throughout the Camp is a wonderful asset to the beginner, and no young man on his own need be afraid to go. May I express a word of grateful thanks to the Staff and all connected with the Camp, who do everything they possibly can to make the Campers happy in what is aptly termed the "Finest Place on Earth for a Holiday." G. F.

Dublin, 14th May, 1933. I have just been looking again at the Camp Herald. Every time I recall those happy hours spent at the Cunningham Camp I feel a desire to sit down and write a book about the place-or else go back and live there. Even though two years have passed since I was at the Camp it just appears as yesterday, so indelible an impression did it leave. I went to the Camp in August, 1931. One of my friends had previously attended, and although I was sceptical abort such places his praises were so loud that we decided to give it a trial. Well, we came, and saw, and that sufficed. Had I time to write an endless panegyric on Douglas and the Cunningham Holiday Camp I am sure I would still leave some of its virtues and glories unextolled. For to me the Cunningham Camp is one of the wonders of the world. The wonderful food, the atmospliere of salubrity, the comforts, the companionship rf such a vast family of model young men-I never heard one unbecoming expression during my stayand that infectious spirit of enjoyment that permeates the very air about the place, all tend to build up a great. store of mental and physical energy. Yes, Switzerland in the Isle of Man is the world's most ideal place in which to spend a holiday. Every time I see a Camp Herald or look at my snapshot album I invariably reflect on the happy hours I spent in that most wonderful place on "Pleasure Island."

Shortly after my return from Douglas I had the opportunity of seeing the real Switzerland. How did it compare with its charming little Manx counterpart. It is indeed a wonderful place, majestic and picturesque in the scenic beauty of its towering Alps, thrilling and spectacular in its winter sports. I spent quite a time there, but I did not enjoy myself half as much as I did while in Douglas. The result is that, were I offered the choice of a holiday in either the Cunningham Holiday Camp or the Hotel Belvedere at Davos-Platz, I should not have the slightest hesitation in selecting the Camp. I intend soon to return for another holiday with you. My friends were there last year and tell me that there are many improvements. I scarcely thought it possible to make any improvements in such a perfect place. I hope the coming season will be the most successful yet. If any of my friends are undecided where to go, I shall certainly persuade them to try a spell at the Cunningham Holiday Camp. Their money can command no better value. Once given a trial the Camp needs no other advertisement. S. G. T.

The New Lounge.

 

The Swimming Bath.

 

 

Telegram from newly-arrived Camper. Arrived 2-30. Sailed on smooth sea into Paradise. Harold.

Huddersfield, 27th September, 1933. I did not have the opportunity of saying " adieu " to you, and 1 have been too busy since returning home to write and tell you how very much I enjoyed being at the Camp again. I can only say that everything is better than ever before. The care, and thought, and foresight, and the manifest desire and determination to give the Campers every satisfaction, are self-evident. The new lounge and writingroom are a great acquisition, and are highly appreciated. I noticed that the high standard of everything that was conducive to the comfort and enjoyment of the Campers was well maintained, helping everyone to have a good time. With every good wish for the further prosperity of the Camp. M. R.

Bury, 10th August, 1933. I cannot really put into words the gratitude I feel for the kind way I was treated when I was over at the Camp. It was the most wonderful holiday I ever spent, packed with interest from the first moment of arrival. Everything that a young man could desire is to be found at the Camp, in fact one could spend a full holiday without even leaving the grounds. I was greatly impressed at the smart and smooth way those hundreds of Campers were served in the Dining Hall. Everything is done in such a manner that I cannot imagine anyone not wishing to join the Camp, if they only knew of the facilities, sports, amusements, and general brotherhood that prevai., there. Wishing for your continued progress. J. H.

Notts 23rd August, 1933. I have had many happy holidays at the Camp, although I have never before penned my appreciation. The high standard of efficiency, and the courtesy the Campers meet with from the staff, are in my experience unrivalled anywhere; the facilities for sport and recreation the Camp affords, with the catering and general amenities, provide the biggest bargain ever put before the young man of this or, I should think, any other country. There is no doubt a holiday in Douglas at the Camp makes anywhere eae seem tame to those who like their holiday filled every minute with swimming, tennis, dancing, billiards, walking, touring, and all the other thousand and one pleasures that are the experience of those who stay at the Camp. F. I. Moose Jaw, Canada, 18th January, 1933.

I am an Englishman, but living a long way from the Isle of Man. While in England on holiday I went to the Camp with some cousins and their friends, and I can honestly say I never saw anything like it in my life. I have travelled quite a bit, and in my estimation the Cunningham Holiday Camp is the best holiday place any young man will find anywhere. I was there a week, and never enjoyed myself so much before; the food and everything else was wonderful, and I will be spending another holiday there some day. J. H.

 

 

Dining Hall-Balcony.

Dining Hall-Main Floor.


The Camp Orchestra.

The Concert Hall cleared for a Dance.

Motor Cycling-Riding the Flank.

 

 

 

 

 


Off for a Drive.


The Billiard Room.

Sports Day.


The Tennis Courts.


The camp farm


Some of the 130 cows.

A WORD WITH INTENDING CAMPERS.

Intending Campers, and especially youths who have never before been from home, need have no hesitation in deciding to attend the Camp, for they will find the Campers and Staff most anxious to help in every possible way. The good feeling of camaraderie which exists among the Campers is quite a feature of the Camp. Every fellow seems to make it his special business to see that everybody he comes in contact with is happy and has a good time.

Having decided to join the Camp, fill up the Application Form and forward same to the Secre- tary, with a deposit of 51- or more. Remember that it may take a little longer to get a reply from the Isle of Man than from an inland town.

Intending Campers who remit full amount for period booked will receive by return post their Camp Ticket, with the number of the bungalow or tent reserved for them. This will enable them, on arrival, to proceed straight to their bungalow or tent instead of having to wait perhaps a considerable time till they can be attended to.

Deposits and all prepayments will be returned in full to any who find they cannot attend Camp, provided a week's notice before intended date of arrival is given.

If you have not received your Camp Ticket by post apply at the Camp Office for same immediately on arrival. Spare cash, railway or steamship return- half tickets, and anything else of value may be deposited in the Camp Bank. A receipt will be given, and the cash may be drawn in small amounts as required.

All Campers are served with a meal immediately on arrival.

If you are a stranger, and willing to be sociable, remember the saying:- -"Ile who would have friends must show himself friendly." Talk to everybody as if you and they were old chums, and you will not be long in the Camp before you are quite at ease.

No dress suits required - come in ordinary dress. No formalities. Campers bring their own towels, combs, and hairbrushes. Boot brushes, blacking, soap, etc., will be provided, but many Campers find it more convenient to bring their own boot-cleaning material.

There will be Family Worship daily, conducted by gentlemen who act as honorary Camp Chaplains. Attendance at this service is quite voluntary, but all are cordially invited.

A supply of Camp Heralds, etc., may be had free and carriage paid. A post card to The Secretary, stating number required, will be sufficient.

RULES AND REGULATIONS.

1. Only youths and men of good moral character are eligible for admission to this Holiday Camp, and should anyone unfortunately prove, by word or deed, to be otherwise, he will be liable to instant expulsion. It is scarcely necessary to say that the use of intoxicants, gambling, and improper language are strictly prohibited. Persons not already pledged abstainers are understood by their attending Camp thereby to promise to totally abstain from all intoxicants, in and out of Camp, during their stay.

2. Campers must be in their bungalows or tents by " Lights out," and quietness is insisted upon from that hour until 7-0 a.m. Lights Out, 11-45 p.m. (Sundays, 11-30 p.m.)

3. Campers must not move from one tent or bungalow to another without the permission of the Secretary.

4. Campers are expected to make their own beds, and keep their tents and bungalows tidy.

5. Campers must show their Camp Ticket when- ever called upon by Camp or railway official. Tickets will always have to be shown on entering and leaving the Camp.

The penalty for breaking any of the Rules, 2 to 5 (inclusive), is a fine or option of expulsion. No fines will be excepted for breach of Rule 1.

LANTERN SLIDES.

Sets of Lantern Slides illustrating the Camp may be had on request free of charge. They are sent carriage paid, the borrower paying return carriage. A Lantern suitable for use in Smaller Halls holding say 200 people, is also available. This is complete with electric battery, and the pictures are on a film instead ofslides. All that is necessary is to swich on and focus. This apparatus also is sent without charge.

1934 SEASON.

SATURDAY, 5th MAY, to SATURDAY, 29th SEPT.

Terms in Bungalows or Tents: Two Guineas per week.

Days 2 3 4 5 6 7
  14/- 19/6 25/- 30/6 36/- 42/-

Add 6/- for each succeeding day.

In Snaefell Mansions 3/6 per week additional to above. See below.

The Afternoon or Evening of arrival and the Morning of departure are together counted as one day only. Campers arriving in the morning or departing in the evening will be charged 2/6 extra in either case. Morning arrivals may have to wait an hour or two for their bungalow or tent to be vacated by the previous occupants.

Young boys are charged the same rate as above.

No allowance for absence from Camp for any period less than a week.

Campers may extend their stay after arrival if there is accommodation, but they will almost certainly be required to remove to another tent or bungalow.

Bungalows and Tents hold four, but can be reserved for a less number on payment of an extra charge of 7/6 per week for each vacant place.. Thus:3 persons only would pay 2/6 each extra per week. 2 persons only would pay 7/6 each extra per week. There is no difference in the terms, etc., of Tents and Bungalows.

Snaefell Mansions. Rooms hold four beds. Terms 6d. per day (3/6 per week) additional to above. Reserve charges same as for Bungalows and Tents. IMPORTANT.-Chums who desire to share sametent or bungalow and dine at same table should apply together (same envelope if possible). Their application forms, stating their desire to be together, should be sent in as early as possible. It will be impossible to make such arrangements unless ample notice is given by each of the party.

A separate application is required from each person, with full name and address of each-very plainly written, please.

MEALS.-Served as follows:-Breakfast, 8 to 9 a.m. Dinner, 1 to 2 p.m. Tea, 5 to 6 p.m. Supper, 10 to 11-30 p.m. Early breakfast at 7-30 a.m. (when ordered) for Campers leaving for home or going for Excursions by Steamer. On Sundays the same as week-days, except Supper, 9-45 to 11-0 p.m.

 

HOW TO REACH THE CAMP.

Location map - cunningham's camp

Special Motor Buses are usually in attendance at the Pier to convey Campers and their baggage direct to the Camp, but if this should not be the case, Campers should take the Horse Trams along the Promenade, alighting at Switzerland (second opening Past the Palace). See above Map.

WEAR THE CAMP BADGE

and Make Friends before you leave Home, on the journey, and at Camp.

The Badge shows a bell tent, Manx Three Legs, the name of the Camp round the edge, all done in enamel. It is a very neat and attractive Badge, and may be had, packed in cardboard box, at 4d. each.

Brown & Sons, Ltd., Printers, Douglas.


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Any comments, errors or omissions gratefully received The Editor
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