Our History
Preserving the Legacy of Camp 30 in Clarington, Ontario
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Inside Camp 30
Camp 30 is one of the most historically significant sites in Canada—a rare example of a purpose-built juvenile reform school that was later transformed into a World War II prisoner-of-war camp. Today, it is the only site of its kind remaining in the country. The Jury Lands Foundation is dedicated to restoring and interpreting this site so future generations can learn from its layered past.
Camp 30: WWII Prisoner-of-War Camp
Between 1941 and 1945, the Boys’ Training School became Camp 30—a POW camp that held over 800 German officers. Camp 30 was the site of the only known World War II prison riot on Canadian soil, known as the Battle of Bowmanville. Discover the camp’s unique wartime role, escape attempts, and the structures that once stood inside the double-wired perimeter.
Ontario Boys’ Training School
Originally founded in the 1920s as a reform school for “unadjusted boys,” the site was designed to reflect the values of progressive juvenile rehabilitation. Learn about its early years, the Prairie-style buildings, and the community events that made the school a local landmark long before it became a POW camp.
Architectural Significance
Camp 30 features one of the few surviving examples of Prairie School architecture in Canada. Designed by James Govan and George White, the campus layout and building design reflected a modern philosophy of reform and education. This section explores the architectural innovations that made the site nationally recognized.
The Camp 30 Model
Created by Hans Knecht in 1991, this scale model captures what Camp 30 looked like during the Second World War. Now housed at the Clarington Museums & Archives, the model is a valuable interpretive tool for visualizing the site’s original layout and wartime modifications.
Our Mission & Approach
The Jury Lands Foundation was established in 2014 with a mission to rejuvenate a nationally significant historic site for community use, education, and preservation. The Foundation works in partnership with the Municipality of Clarington to research, protect, and reimagine Camp 30 for public benefit.
“To rejuvenate a Canadian historic and architecturally significant site in Clarington, Ontario… while harmoniously integrating with its host community of Bowmanville.”
Preservation
Timeline
2013
Historical Designation
- Designated a National Historic Site by the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada
2014-2020
Plans & Agreements
- Key surveys, strategic plans, and land use agreements implemented
2017-2018
Ontario Heritage Act
- Six heritage buildings designated under the Ontario Heritage Act
Ongoing
Restoration
- Community-led fundraising, events, and walking tours hosted to support restoration
How to Get Involved
Donate
Support the restoration of Camp 30 by making a one-time or monthly donation.
Volunteer
Lend your time and skills to help with events, tours, or behind-the-scenes work.
Plan a Visit
Join us for guided tours, community events, and self-guided walks.
Become a Sponsor
Partner with us to help fund education programs, site maintenance, and community events.