The family of former Watertown Recreation Director Philip Costello donated money to the Town to allow residents to enjoy one of Mr. C’s greatest legacies — Camp Pequossette.
The Costello family presented the scholarship money to the Town at a recent Town Council meeting. Instead of giving gifts to each other this Christmas, the Costellos donate money to put toward the scholarships, said Sean Costello, Philip’s grandson.
“It is our request that you use this $1,630 to help bring the joy of Camp Pequossette — one of Mr. C’s greatest legacies — to children in need,” Sean said.
Costello graduated from Watertown High School in 1945, where he was a star athlete. After serving in the military, he served two terms on the Watertown School Committee in his late 20s. He also taught and coached in for many years.
“His greatest joy was working with children,” Sean said. “He was a teacher in Watertown for 24 years, and a coach as well. Even if he didn’t know the sport, he’d coach it.”
Later, he served as Director of Recreation from 1962-69. During that time he expanded the number of year-round offerings from 40 to 100, and he created Watertown’s summer camp.
“One of his greatest legacies is Camp Pequossette,” Sean said. “He wrote the Pequossette theme song, which I understand campers still sing today.”
Watertown Recreation Director Peter Centola thanked the Costello family for the donation, and called Mr. C one of his mentors.
Town Councilor Anthony Donato said he attended Camp Pequossette and his brother is now the director of the camp.
“This will help a lot of kids have a great summer,” Donato said.
How can others make similar donations … ?
The Best way to make a donation, like the one made by the Costello family to Camp Pequossette, is to contact the Town Manager’s Office. townmgr@watertown-ma.gov (617) 972-6465. The donation will have to be approved by the Town Council.