Fresh Air Baby Camp - Building
The Inspiring Legacy of Wichita's Fresh Air Baby Camp
Nestled in the heart of Wichita’s Oak Park stands a quiet yet powerful monument to public health history: the Fresh Air Baby Camp. Built in 1920, this small but significant structure is one of the last remaining examples of a national movement that sought to harness the healing powers of fresh air and sunlight for infant care.
The camp emerged from the broader "Fresh Air Movement," which took root in the early 20th century during a time when diseases like tuberculosis, rickets, and pneumonia were major threats to children, especially in low-income communities. Wichita’s initiative began modestly in 1918 with a tent on the grounds of Wesley Hospital, offering free summertime care to infants in need. When a fire destroyed the original structure in 1919, the community responded quickly and passionately.
Led by Mrs. Howard Norton, local citizens raised funds to construct a permanent facility in Oak Park. Designed by architect Lorenz Schmidt and built by George Siedhoff, the building featured triple-sash windows—a pioneering design to ensure optimal air circulation. The new facility opened its doors in 1920 and continued to serve infants until 1926, when the Fresh Air program moved to the newly opened Wesley Hospital.
But the story didn’t end there. For the next 75 years, the building was leased to the Girl Scouts, affectionately known as the "Girl Scout Little House," serving as a hub for day camps, troop meetings, and youth gatherings. After falling into disuse in the early 2000s, the structure faced possible demolition.
In response, a group of committed volunteers formed Friends of the Historic Fresh Air Baby Camp, Inc. Their mission: to restore the building to its original glory while preserving its legacy. Thanks to their tireless work—which included restoring the original plaster walls, repairing the windows, and installing a geothermal HVAC system—the building was fully renovated and rededicated in 2021.
Today, the Fresh Air Baby Camp is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and stands as a beautiful reminder of Wichita’s commitment to community, innovation, and child wellness. What began as a grassroots public health initiative over a century ago has grown into a living symbol of civic pride, resilience, and care.
Whether you're a history lover, a healthcare advocate, or simply a curious neighbor, the story of the Fresh Air Baby Camp is a moving example of what a community can achieve when it comes together with compassion and purpose.
