Multiple generations of Texas politicians’ families have attended Camp Mystic

More than two dozen children have tragically lost their lives in the devastating flash floods that have hit Texas’ Hill Country. The area, home to popular youth summer camps like Camp Mystic, has been left reeling from the unexpected disaster.

The flash floods swept through Kerr County, Texas, and surrounding areas in central Texas’ Hill Country early on the Fourth of July holiday. Despite warnings issued the day before, the devastation struck in the early morning hours of Friday, catching residents off guard.

Camp Mystic, a Christian girls’ summer camp established in 1926, was among the camps affected by the floods. The camp, known for promoting spiritual growth and personal development in campers, was hit hard by the rushing waters of the Guadalupe River.

At least 27 campers and counselors lost their lives in the tragedy, according to Camp Mystic’s website. Texas Governor Greg Abbott visited the camp and shared his shock at the extent of the damage caused by the flooding.

Camp Mystic has a long history with Texas politicians and presidential families. Former first lady Laura Bush worked as a counselor at the camp while attending Southern Methodist University, and former President Lyndon B. Johnson sent his daughters to the camp. The Bush family, including former President George W. Bush and Laura Bush, expressed their sorrow over the loss of lives in Texas.

Former President George W. Bush released a statement expressing his heartbreak over the tragedy and praising the efforts of first responders and volunteers in the search and rescue operations at Camp Mystic and along the Guadalupe River.

The camp has seen multiple generations of Texas political families attend, including former Govs. Dan Moody, Price Daniel, and John Connally. James Baker, who served as chief of staff to former Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush, also sent his family members to Camp Mystic.

Tragically, the camp’s longtime director and co-owner, Dick Eastland, lost his life while trying to rescue campers during the floods. Texas Rep. August Pfluger and Georgia Rep. Buddy Carter were relieved to hear that their daughters and granddaughters, who were attending the camp, survived the disaster.

President Donald Trump signed a disaster declaration for Kerr County, Texas, and has plans to visit the area to assess the damage and offer support to the affected families. The community is coming together to support those impacted by the tragedy, showing the resilience and generosity that Texas is known for.

The devastating floods have left a deep scar on the Hill Country, but the spirit of unity and compassion in the face of adversity is shining through as the community mourns the lives lost and works towards recovery.