Indian Springs Day Camp was founded in 1959 by Dr. William Mackrides and Dr. Benedict Coren. They were both career educators and coaches, with a passion for working with children. Bill and Ben were lifelong friends who attended West Philadelphia High School and later the University of Nevada and West Chester University. They excelled in athletics and received many honors. After spending a year in the military (WWII), Bill played quarterback for the University of Nevada and led the nation in passing. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles and played on their championship teams of 1948 and 1949. Bill was later inducted to both the University of Nevada and Pennsylvania’s Sports Hall of Fame. Post NFL career, he turned to education. He received his Master’s degree in Education and his PhD in Psychotherapy. Ben starred in football at West Chester University where he was awarded “Little All American” honors. Ben was later inducted into the West Chester University and Pennsylvania’s Sports Hall of Fame. He too turned to education and was the first student to receive his Master’s degree in Education from the West Chester University new Master’s Program. Dr. Coren later received his Doctorate degree in Recreation Education.
The original grounds consisted of farm land, natural springs and an abundance of foliage. The house in the picture was built in 1877, and today serves as our administration building. The camp nurse is also located here.
Our camp's philosophy remains the same as was set by Bill and Ben - individual attention for all campers, a limited enrollment, safety in every area, the best staff available, an open line of communication with our parents and making summer memories to last a lifetime!
