THE EAGLE HAS LANDED

1966 - 1975

"Tranquillity Base here. The 'Eagle' has landed." - Neil Armstrong,

Apollo 11 Mission Commander and Eagle Scout. July 20, 1969

The period in the mid 1960's reflected changes that were being experienced in the Nation and the World. Many factors had an impact on Scouting and the Chester County Council in this time. The Vietnam War had an immediate and lasting impact on our country as our soldiers were called home from this devastating conflict. The "Woodstock Generation" would have its effect on our culture. And, a re-direction of emphasis in the National Scout organization would also be influential in Scouting in the '70's. However, our Scouting generation could take pride in one of its members, when Eagle Scout Neal A. Armstrong was the first man to set foot on the Moon in 1969. This happened as our Scouts were camped at the National Jamboree in Idaho and at the Horseshoe Scout Reservation.

1966 The year was marked with many successes in our Scouting Programs. Camp Horseshoe and Jubilee Camp were again the top event for the troops in the Council. The number of Scouts attending the Horseshoe Reservation exceeded the past year's attendance. We were now tenth in the Region in summer camp attendance. Herbert Jewson conducted a Webelos Day at Jubilee to introduce 61 Webelos and their leaders to Camp. The Philmont Scout Ranch continued to call our older Scouts. Robert Gilroy was Chairman of the Philmont Committee that organized two trips to New Mexico. There were 64 Scouts and 8 leaders who embarked on the challenging back- packing adventure. The "Fall Round-up" to recruit new Scouts had excellent results; we had over 500 new members join!

In the fall, there were 1200 Scouts who attended the Council Camporee at Hibernia County Park. The park had been recently acquired by Chester County and would serve as our Camporee site for many years to come. A series of Scout Skill competitive events tested the patrol skills in lashing, signaling, knot tying, nature and other activities.

John Gronemeyer was our new Scout Executive to set the pace for Scouting in the Council as we moved into the new year.

1967 Summer Camp promotion was an important part of the Scouting Program being delivered. Evans H. "Pud" Warner, who had been a Scout in Devon Troop 50 and a Scoutmaster of Berwyn Troop 11, was Camping Committee Chairman. With his Committee's work and that of the Order of the Arrow, considerable effort was made to promote summer camping in the Districts and troops where this program was weak. Octoraro Lodge members put together a Camp Horseshoe summer camp slide presentation which was shown at District Roundtables and to individual Scout troops. The results were an increase in troops signed up for the summer camp season by that spring.

A second Camp Ranger was hired to handle the Jubilee operation. The demands on George Cole had been such with two swimming pools to maintain and many other duties that assistance was needed. Mark Reynolds was hired and on the job at the start of the year.

Exploring continued to be a main ingredient in holding the older boys in Scouting. The newly elected Explorer Cabinet was planning many special events for the Posts in the Council. Ben Nelson of Devon Post 50 was Chairman with Scott Harris of Valley Forge Post 206 as Vice Chairman and Richard Carens of West Chester Ship 19 as secretary. A Safe Driver Road Rally held for the Explorers was first staged this spring. Other activities included dances and a trip to Elk Neck State Park. Advisor for the Cabinet was Walter MacLaughlin.

Arthur E. Bone was elected President of the Council in 1967. He had served a number of years in the Camp Expansion Fund Drive and had worked on the Sustaining Membership Enrollment (SME) campaigns conducted to raise money to supplement that received from United Fund organizations in the County. He was presented with the Silver Beaver award that year.

The Annual Banquet in June recognized the Scouter Volunteers and singled out those who had given exceptional service. The people recognized for the Silver Beaver awards, besides Art Bone, were Dr. Paul W. Morgan, Robert C. Gilroy and John C. Bole.

Art Bone was cited for his exceptional service to the Council as President and for spearheading fund raising efforts. Paul Morgan was a Scouter with Troop 43 whose knowledge of nature and woods lore was exceptional and shared through his training efforts with many Scouts. He had made a difference in the lives of many young Scouts in the Council through his efforts. Bob Gilroy had served as Philmont Chairman and inspired many of the older Scouts to take advantage of the Philmont experience. John Bole had served on the Council Board with distinction in the area of camping and activities.

Prior to the opening of Camp, the Council's Junior Leader Training Course was held at Jubilee. Harvey Rettew was the Scoutmaster for the week-long course. He was an exacting teacher and provided a wealth of information for the Scouts on woods tools, nature, cooking and other outdoor skills in which he was highly proficient.

A great gang of Staff had been assembled this year adding to the fine experiences of Scouts and leaders alike. Jerry Brown was the Program director and John Souder was back as the Headquarters Director. Eric Lorgus was at the Trading Post and Eric Pennell was the Commissary Director. Charley Henry was back once more as the Head Cook - this was more than 15 years of service at Camp for him. John Rasmussen was Nature and Conservation Director and Scott Ennis was at Handicraft. Mike Parlett was the Aquatics Director and Kim Mohn was Campcraft Director. Kim was assisted by Bob Morse (who later became a star basketball player for U. of PA and later a pro in Italy). Other Staff new members included Jim Goudie and Rob Hopkins. Dr. James Meadowcroft, a former Horseshoe camper, helped at the Health Lodge.

John B. Rettew observations -

"After a hiatus of 19 years, it was a pleasure to return to Horseshoe this summer as leader of my Scout Troop for two weeks. What a great time was had by the Scouts and myself...it was like being home again! I was struck by the spirit of the Camp, the friendliness of the Staff and the excellence of the Camp Program that had not substantially changed since those days in 1944 when I first arrived at Camp. Ernie Heegard was Director and had surrounded himself with a spirited group of young men. Singing in the Dining Hall, friendly competitions with other troops in the evening and escaping the life of a businessman, "breathing the dead air in the tall buildings" as the Spirit of the Horseshoe intoned at the opening night campfire, made this a special time for myself and other leaders."

Camp Jubilee once more attracted the campers who enjoyed the different camping experience it offered. Among the Staff at Jubilee were Ed Burke, Tim Getz and others including Eadline, Wallace, Bahberger, Lang, Rowan, Reynolds, Vottilla, Swab, Mitman, Peterson and Vaughn.

Bill Robertson of Oxford Troop 44 devoted much time to Camp Jubilee (now Camp John H. Ware,3rd) and its maintenance on Order of the Arrow weekends. Chuck Kelly of Unionville Troop 22 was another strong advocate of the Scouting experience that Jubilee offered and helped in supporting the camp. There were many other troops who similarly formed a close association with the Jubilee over the years.

Bill Robertson and his Oxford Troop 44 camped there for many seasons. In 1994, Bill offered these comments about Jubilee:

"Jubilee was 'Jambo.-.style' camping. We did our own meal preparation, building fires from the slab wood brought into camp.

The camp week started on Sunday with a campfire and ended after breakfast on Saturday. During the week we had a full program...merit badge and other advancement work during the day and camp activities during the evening. Tuesday, the troops had their own campfire programs and Wednesday night there was a Water Carnival. Wide area games were held on the other nights except for Friday when there was the final campfire program with the awards.

Camp awards for the Scout week were presented the Scouts at the Campfire area. The campfire arena was situated overlooking the Octoraro Creek. Here, in the secluded part of the Camp, on the side of the hill, were erected seats looking down on the Creek, the woods opposite and the campfire altar. Usually, there was an Order of the Arrow tap-out ceremony as part of the campfire program.

I look on Camp Jubilee (Ware) as the once-a-year occasion during which the Troop had a golden opportunity to rapidly develop, in one short week, all the Scout Skills and especially patrol and troop leadership. Our Troop always felt this camp offered all the opportunities to accomplish Scouting goals: operating in a patrol manner, under tents, doing its own cooking and clean-up, care of the facility, a wide variety of program in which to participate complimented by a well-trained and cooperative Staff. Thus, for nearly thirty years our Troop has taken advantage of this opportunity and I am sure will do so for many years to come."

While Camp Horseshoe and Jubilee had a record number of campers that summer, many other things were happening. There was the World Jamboree, hosted by the United States, at Couer d'Alene, Idaho. Frank Peterson was one of our Scoutmasters for the Council troops that made the long trip. And, in another part of the West were our Philmont-bound Scouts. In our own backyard a Paddlerama was held in a white water section of the Delaware River. Hosted by the Philadelphia Council, a group of Scouts from Paoli Troop 1, led by Scoutmaster Doug Hoffman, competed with other canoeists... and won the event!

The Scout Exposition was held once more at the Devon Horse Show Grounds and 6000 visitors were there. The Troops from around our Council put on Scout Skill demonstrations, built Scouting displays and performed for the attendees. Charles Moore, Jr. was the Chairman of the event that raised money for both the troops and the Scout Council.

Board approval was given for Webelos Scouts and their fathers to use the Camp Horseshoe facilities in September and May for camping. This was a change in the National organization's policy governing Scout camps being used for Cub Scout camping.

1968 J. Lee Everett, President of the Philadelphia Electric Company, a Scouter with Devon Post 50, had come onto the Council's Board to head the Council's Sustaining Membership Enrollment campaign for 1968. He was an enthusiastic supporter of the Council.

Incentives were used for Camp sign-up for the first time this year as a means of sparking attendance at summer camp. Al Lawrence announced to the Board Meeting that this year's incentive was a special neckerchief slide. He also reviewed the Order of the Arrow projects at Camp which included the replacement of the Swinging Bridge over the Octoraro Creek and a new Ceremonial Circle. The OA was also busy recruiting Lodge members to attend the 1969 Area Conference.

Fridjof Tobiessen, Advancement Chairman, arranged for the Eagle Scout Recognition Dinner for our 61 Eagle Scouts and their sponsors in February. All were pleased to hear his report that the total advancements in the Council had increased by 15% over the preceding year.

Seven of our Scout leaders had taken the Wood Badge Training at the Schiff Scout Training Center during the past year. Each had been assigned a counselor from the Wood Badge trained leaders in the Council to approve his "Ticket" for the final part of his training. The first Wood Badge dinner was held in February. Frank Peterson was elected the first Chairman of the Council's Wood Badge Committee. The committee was comprised of one Wood Badge member from each District. Wood Badge member Calvin Wallace agreed to serve as Scoutmaster for the Council's Junior Leader Training Course that spring. On a Council-wide basis, each District was holding its own JLTC course with some 330 Junior Leaders There were also 89 adults providing leadership training for these courses.

The Annual Dinner was held in the spring to honor the volunteers who had provided leadership to our growing membership. We were now serving nearly 7500 Scouts and 210 registered units. Ken Evans, who had served for many years as the Scout Commissioner, was elected the Council President that year. Richard H. Walker was the newly elected Council Commissioner. The Silver Beaver award was presented to Mervyn Piersol, Philip F. Simmons and Calvin F. Wallace for their exceptional service to Scouting.

Horseshoe was again full! The Camp had two part-time ministers in attendance, one a Catholic Priest and the other was Phil Simmons who handled the Scout Vespers each Wednesday night. They encouraged many of the campers to become involved in their respective churches in the Religious Awards programs that Scouting offered.

Some 81 non-Scouts attended an extra week of camping at Jubilee. These boys from underprivileged areas in Coatesville, West Chester, Great Valley and Kennett Square, were sponsored by the Junior Chamber of Commerce clubs in those areas. We had nine leaders and 11 Junior Scout Leaders volunteer to spend their time and work with the boys.

At the October Board Meeting a resolution was passed to deed 3.3 acres of land that the Council owned on the opposite (west) side of the West Chester By-Pass to Grocery Store Products Co. in exchange for 4.6 acres of that company's property lying to the south and west of the Council's Service Center property and adjacent to it. This property was used as a Council weekend training site for a number of years.

The Council Camporee in the fall of 1968 was the largest ever with 2167 boys and leaders attending. There were 25 different Scout Skill events offered in the competition. The objective was to have each patrol visit as many different events as possible in the given time period and correctly complete the skill. There was a lot of fun running to successfully compete in each event. The winning patrol got to 17 different events.

J. Frederic Wiese was a faithful attendee at our Board Meetings while still serving on the Region III Committee. He was pleased to report that William D. Taylor, Past President of the Chester County Council and active in the Regional affairs, had been one of this year's Silver Antelope award recipients at a meeting at the Buck Hill Falls Inn. He was the fifth Council member so honored. The Council was recognized as the top Council in the Region for membership gain. We were now over 8000 Scouts with the largest number of units ever. A great way to cap off the year that marked the 50th anniversary of the forming of our Council.

1969 Congratulations were extended to Ray Lemmon by President Ken Evans for Ray's recent honor of being named Downingtown's "Man of the Year". Ray had given many years of service to both Scouting and other community endeavors.

During Scout Week in February many troops organized for special Scouting displays. Arrangements were made with store owners to use their windows for posters or displays depicting Scouting in action. many of the Districts held contests where the best displays won ribbons.

In 1969 the Eagle Recognition Dinner had been revised into an Eagle Scout Career Day. In this program the Eagle Scout spent a day with his sponsor in the sponsor's business operation. Then, following that, there was the Eagle Scout Recognition at the Penn Oaks Country Club. The Council Advancement Committee was responsible for arranging for the sponsors. Sixty-one Eagle Scouts and sponsors were at the dinner where each was recognized for his accomplishment.

Explorer Posts during that period were being developed along career interest line. Tredyffrin Township sponsored a law enforcement Post; Lukens Steel an Engineering Post; Hospitals sponsored Emergency Preparedness Posts; and, law Posts were sponsored by lawyers. There were still the camping- oriented Posts which emphasized special camping and canoeing trips. The Council Exploring Cabinet sponsored events such as the Road Rally and Coed weekend camping during the year.

Ken Evans was re-elected President and William H. Mitman and Donald Givler were elected Vice Presidents in 1969. Roberts R. Gotwals was Treasurer and Richard H. Walker was re-elected Scout Commissioner.

The 50th Anniversary Recognition Dinner was held in June at West Chester College. There were five Silver Beaver presentations made that evening. Charles L. Huston, Jr. of Paoli, President of Lukens Steel, was honored for his service as a Board member of the Council. Walter MacLaughlin was recognized for his Council work in the area of Exploring, the Religious Relations Committee and other committees on which he served. Richard Jenkins was honored for his Scouting work in the Colora, Maryland area which had begun in Cubbing and led to Scouting. Evans H. Warner, Board member and now Silver Beaver recipient, had been actively involved in the Conestoga District on the Camping Committee, had served as Scoutmaster and an Assistant Scoutmaster of Berwyn Troop 11 for 12 years. He was also a Commissioner. Paul C. Winters also was cited for his active and distinctive Scouting service to youth with the Silver Beaver award.

Camp Horseshoe and Jubilee opened with a lively group of campers and a well-rounded Staff. Ernie Heegard was at the helm of Horseshoe. His Staff included Eric Lorgus and Jim Goudie among others. At Camp Jubilee this year, Craig Wright served as the director. The Jubilee Staff included Mark Reynolds and Ken Beam (whose grandfather, Frank, was Horseshoe Director in the '40's and whose dad had been on the Staff at the same time). Among the staffers were Bamberger, Swab, Mitman, Barr, Hall and Pickering.

The Retreat Ceremony at Camp Horseshoe was an important part of camp life since those early days at Horseshoe, Rothrock and Lafayette. The ceremony at Horseshoe has not changed over the years and continues to be a strong Camp tradition. It was always a formal Camp event to pay respect to the Flag of the United States. "JB" Rettew recalls:

"There are several different phases leading up to and including the ceremony. Once back in the campsite from swimming or other activity, the Scouts dress in their class 'A' uniforms; their KP's are then sent to the Dining Hall. Each Troop then holds its own Flag lowering ceremony in the campsite. Once this was done, the Senior Patrol Leader would form the troop and march to the Parade Field. Here, they would drill as time permitted to improve their marching skills for that final moment when they were on review. The troops, on signal, would fall in line at the base of the Parade Field. As the drums rolled, the troops Senior Patrol Leader would call 'mark time, mark' and then 'forward march.' Then, each troop in the order of their campsites marches in double file onto the Parade Field. They halt in their prescribed positions. The Program Director then marches to the sound of the drum to the center of the Field where he calls for each Senior Patrol Leaders' report. The response was - "Troop (number), all present or accounted for! Sir! (Campsite) reporting! Sir!" Once the camp was all accounted for, including the KP's, the Retreat Ceremony was carried out in an impressive fashion with the correct bugle calls- "Retreat" and "To the Colors". The cannon would be shot (shaking up the newer Scouts). The Flag upon being lowered and folded, was then presented to the Camp Director. The command was then issued - "Camp! Pass in review!"

Each troop would then be formed up and march in turn to the head of the Parade Field where they would do a flanking move and diligently attempt to keep their lines straight as they passed the Staff and Camp Director. "Eyes left" command would be given by the Senior Patrol Leader to his troop. Many times there would be a scramble for all the Scouts to try to get in step and straighten their lines, for here, they would be judged for their marching quality. Once at the bottom of the Field, there would be a second flanking move and then ranks broke to get in line for the evening meal outside their assigned entrance to the Dining Hall.

Following dinner and singing, the Dining Hall fell silent as the Scouts anxiously waited to learn who the best marchers were that evening. Then, after several remarks to heighten the tension, the announcement of the winning troop was made by the Program Director or the Camp Director. As the Senior Patrol Leader accepted the "Retreat Trophy" a troop cheer might follow," or a lot of hooting and hollering.

Ernie Heegard comments on the Retreat Trophy, a tradition that began at some time in the 1940's:

"The Trophy was usually a #10 tin can attractively mounted on a wood base and specially painted. At the Sunday evening Trophy presentation, however, we would describe it in glowing terms....that it was created by Tiffany's for the Camp; it was silver with a special carved wood base; that the interior was coated with ruby dust; etc..

The winning troop was given the right to inscribe its number on the cup portion. It was a cherished award and carried much significance for the winning troops during the summer."

In July, our Scouts were off to Farragut State Park near Couer d'Alene, Idaho where the 7th National Scout Jamboree was held. Among the Scoutmasters for the troops were Harvey Rettew and Jim Gawthrop. They flew to Billings, Montana where they boarded a bus and spent time in Yellowstone Park. At the Fishing Bridge campsite where they tented, only the week, before, a bear had attacked a camper. Needless to say, they kept a careful watch for the wildlife there. From there, the Scouts went to the Jamboree site for the excitement, fun and fellowship of the encampment. Frank Borman, a former Astronaut entertained the Scouts with a close "fly by" of his four-engine plane.

Late into the night of July 20, eyes were fixed on both the moon and the television screen; and, ears were pressed to portable radios to hear the special reports of the Apollo 11 Space Mission as it neared the Moon landing spot. Then the words came..."Tranquillity Base here. The 'Eagle' has landed." What made this so special for the Scouts was that Neil Armstrong was a fellow Eagle Scout and was the first human being to set foot on the surface of the Moon! Before the Apollo 11 Mission was over a special message was beamed to the Jamboree Scouts by Armstrong from his spot in space.

Allen Lawrence had served on the Region III Staff at the Jamboree. Also, Scout Executive John Gronemeyer served in the Camp Commissary there. Senior Patrol Leader for the Council's Troop 37, Bill Grant, later reported to the Board on the Council's trip.

The Board Dinner at Camp Horseshoe was well attended. Ernie Heegard and his Staff cooked up an excellent charcoal steak dinner with all the trimmings. Ernie gave a glowing report of happenings in Camp. Reuben Uhler reported to the Board that many major projects had been completed this summer at the Reservation. A Staff cabin had been donated at Jubilee in the memory of Harlan Graham - this was situated at the top of the hill coming into Camp Jubilee and was to serve as a Scoutmaster's lodge. He also reported that fifty new wall tents from the Jamboree would be acquired for Jubilee's new campsite - Mohican. A new Swinging Bridge over the Octoraro had been built by the Order of the Arrow and they had completed the enlargement of their Ceremonial Circle. Additional canoes and row boats had been purchased and the "low water" bridge had been constructed for easier access to Jubilee from Horseshoe by the Camp Rangers.

Also, presented that evening was a proposal by N. Harlan Slack, Jr. to purchase a piece of land adjoining Horseshoe's new farm area. Board approval was given to proceed. Later in the year the sale was consummated and we had acquired 84.2 additional acres of property for $45000.

There is a sense in the Board minutes at this time that problems were surfacing on the retention of Scout units and concern for where the membership was headed. With this in mind, the Board set its sights on working harder in these areas in the months to come.

Scout Executive John Gronemeyer announced his resignation that fall. The Search Committee was appointed to interview prospective applicants. Bill Mitman was the Chairman of the Committee. Two major considerations for the new Executive were strength in Finance and Organization & Extension. Selected was Walter Ryan, Jr. who came on board in December.

1970 President Evans welcomed our new Executive Walter Ryan to the January Board Meeting. Walt was a person who was quick to jump in and get things done type of leader. He quickly earned the respect of the volunteer leaders in his willingness to roll up his sleeves and join in the work at hand. His first order of business was to visit each of the Districts to get to know the key people and to meet with the Scoutmasters.

Although the gain in boy members and units was not what had been projected, the 1969 year ended with a gain of 136 members and five new units. According to Bill Mitman, that was the smallest gain in many years for the Council.

It was announced that National had approved a regional Wood Badge Course for the coming summer at Camp Jubilee in which six other councils besides Chester County would be participating. Frank E. Peterson had been approved to be the Scoutmaster of that course. This was to be the first Wood Badge course to be conducted by the Chester County Council.

Bob Gotwals was the new Philmont Chairman in 1970. Plans were made for the Council to have two Philmont Scout contingents with leaders traveling by bus to New Mexico.

The key Scouting Program theme that year was SOAR - Save Our American Resources. Our District and Council Camporees picked up on this and set up various projects emphasizing conservation of our natural resources.

Drugs were becoming more intrusive in our communities at that time. It seemed to be a reflection of the free-living lifestyles of many young men and women in society who had been caught up in the Woodstock fever. To help deal with this, Captain Robert Gilroy, of the Tredyffrin Township Police Department and a Scout leader, offered his assistance and a special drug abuse committee was appointed to help deal with the potential problem in Chester County. The committee took the matter to the Scout Leaders at District Round Tables to indoctrinate them on how they should discuss the matter with their boys. These programs were eventually incorporated into a program developed by the National Scout organization at a later time.

Walter MacLaughlin our Council Exploring Advisor announced his resignation due to his being sent out of the Country. He had done an exceptional job with the Exploring Program in the Council and received the thanks of all.

Our newly elected Council President was William H. Mitman, who had served a number of years as Vice President. New Board members announced were, among others, Joseph E. Boyd, Jr. of West Chester and Vincent Verdiani of Paoli.

In 1970, the Order of the Arrow did an exceptional job in preparing for the opening of Camp. Walt Ryan was there on the Ordeal Weekends and pitched right in with the other Lodge members in various projects. At such Order of the Arrow weekends it was not unusual to have 350 to 400 Scouts and leaders working together on a multitude of projects from road repair to roofing to swinging a scythe. Thousands of hours of work were performed under the leadership of Ernie Heegard and the OA Executive Board. Jubilee had a new campsite, Deer Slayer, this spring and each of the camp pools had new pads laid. A new dishwasher was installed and many other projects completed by the OA.

The Annual recognition Dinner was held again at West Chester College. Honored this year for their service to youth were Silver Beaver awardees Earl G. Germond, Frank E. Peterson, Reuben G. Uhler and Ken E. Yeager.

Earl Germond had been a Scout from 1930 to 1936 in New Jersey and had served as an Assistant Scoutmaster and Scoutmaster in several different Councils before coming to Chester County. In Kennett Square he was a Committeeman and Cubmaster for Pack 24. He then served as an Assistant Scoutmaster and Committeeman for Troop 24. From 1964 to 1967 he was Scoutmaster of Troop 24. Since then he has been District Commissioner of the Octoraro District.

Frank Peterson became a Boy Scout in 1937 in Warren, Pennsylvania. He became active in Scouting in Chester County in 1957. He was Institutional Representative for Pack and Troop 68 in Curwensville. He served on the West Chester Troop 43 Committee. In the Lenni-Lenape District he served as District Commissioner, Camping Chairman, Training Chairman and Pow Wow Instructor. He was Scoutmaster of the Troop to the 12th World Jamboree in Japan. He was Scoutmaster for the Region III Wood Badge Course. He also organized the Alpha Phi Omega, Scouting service fraternity, at West Chester College.

Reuben Uhler had been on the Troop 70 Committee in Thorndale from 1955 to 1959. In 1959 he was elected to the Executive Board of the Council. He was on the Health and Safety Committee and was presently serving as Chairman of the Council Camping and Activities Committee.

Ken Yeager's Scouting began as a boy in Philadelphia and then as a leader. From 1960 to the present he has been Scoutmaster of Malvern Troop 7 and served on numerous District training operations and at District camporees. Many will recall his famous "Session De Toro" weekends in March when Scouters would gather from all parts of the County to enjoy fellowship and food (it seemed that the food kept coming - who will ever forget the pickled eggs and the special ethnic menus that would be served?). He served as cook and chairman of that for many years. Many leaders learned new types of craft work at Malvern 7's cabin in those days! Ken also was a Vigil Honor member in the Order of the Arrow. He served as Chief Cook for the Lodge weekends for seven years, and on many of the Regional Wood Badge Courses over the years. He earned his Wood Badge beads in 1964. In 1966 he was presented the Legion of Honor, Four Chaplains award.

Camp Horseshoe had another fine season with 1752 Scouts; and, Jubilee had 341 scouts attending. A non-Scout week camp was held for needy boys under the sponsorship of the Junior Chamber of Commerce in Chester County again. Ernie Heegard once more held forth as Camp Director and Frank Penrose was Director of Jubilee. Among the Jubilee Staff were Ray Pauley, Ken Beam and other members Swab, Barr, Kelly, Wallace and Hall.

Troops as they came to Camp set goals for the week on advancement as well as others related to the Honor Patrol Award, such as service projects for the Camp; making a patrol plaque; maintaining a log (interesting) of the patrol activities in Camp during the week; cooking three meals out of the Dining Hall and having an overnight campout. If all the patrols in the troop received the Honor Plaque, the troop received the Troop Award.

Outpost camps were used for patrol and troop overnight camping trips away from Horseshoe's main camp. This was part of the Troop and Patrol Award requirements. Campsites used were across the Octoraro Creek at New Farm Sites I, II and III. These sites were not too far from George Cole's home. Another used was Grey Horse Church site situated next to a spring. That was used until the new high access road was built.

That fall the Order of the Arrow weekend had the largest attendance ever when 475 Lodge members came down to close the camps for the season and perform other duties. The highlight of any of the OA Ordeal weekends was the induction ceremony held at the Lodge Circle. The candidates reported being overwhelmed by the impressive ceremony and the special lighting effects of the Circle and the candles illuminating the rock out-croppings. Older Lodge members also similarly reported being impressed each time they participated in the ceremonies.

Joe Boyd, Chairman of the Organization and Extension Committee reported the year-end membership figures. We had an increase in the number of units over the previous year but our membership totals fell short of the goal. We had dropped below the 8000 mark. In retrospect, there were influences outside of the Scouting Movement that were having an influence. In spite of that decline, advancement and participation of the Scouts in all facets of the Council's programs was high as we ended the year.

Ken Evans had been appointed the Council Chairman for the World Jamboree Committee. The Jamboree was to take place in Japan in 1971. Leaders for our Council's contingent were Frank Peterson, Norman S. Ashworth and Peter S. Wendle. By year-end we had 22 boys signed up for this truly 'high adventure.'

1971 Plans continued to be developed for the Council's attendance at the 12th World Jamboree in Japan. Frank Peterson, Scoutmaster of the Jamboree Troop 333, had a troop of 40 Scouts of which 17 were from the DelMarVa Council. A new Assistant Scoutmaster had joined him - Harry Palmer. A number of Scout and Parent meetings were held along with a shakedown weekend to prepare for the trip.

Other Council events were enjoyed during spring. The Wood Badge Banquet was impressive as its members gathered to reminisce of their days in the course and to remember the Founder of Wood Badge and Scouting, Lord Baden-Powell. Paul Morgan had the key role in arranging that event. Bill Mitman was the key speaker at that dinner that year. Also, on another occasion, 72 Eagle Scouts of the past year were honored at the Eagle Scout Dinner that followed a Career Day with their respective sponsors.

As a result of a number of promotions for our District Executives and for Win Taylor, who had provided several years of service as Assistant Council Executive, Walt Ryan was busy pulling his new team together. Among those hired was Herbert Eye. He joined the team as Program Director and Business Manager of the Horseshoe Reservation. Herb took an active part in working with Dick Walker, Camporee Chairman, on the planning and execution of the Council Camporee. This took place in May. It used the SOAR theme and was promoted as the conservation Camporee. It was held at Hibernia County Park where each troop took part in special conservation projects. The Order of the Arrow led by Buck Jones, then Chief, was invaluable in their service

corps function at that event.

Bob Edmonds was Chairman of the Training Committee for the Council. Besides the Junior Leader Training Course, this year led by Dick Walker and Cal Wallace, the Committee had responsibility for the Den Mothers' Workshop and the Den Chief training session.

The Annual Recognition Dinner in June at West Chester College honored the volunteer Scouters and their wives and recognized four men for their outstanding service to Scouting with the Silver Beaver.

Richard H. Walker was cited for his service as Council Commissioner and prior duties in the District. he had served as Committeeman for Troop 43 in West Chester and subsequently on the Lenni-Lenape District Committee. He was Committee Chairman from 1966 to 1968. He served as Council Commissioner from 1968.

The Silver Beaver award was also presented to James E. Meadowcroft. His Scouting began as a boy in 1920 in Trafford, Pennsylvania. He was an Assistant Scoutmaster there. In 1958, he joined the Devon 50 Troop Committee and became its Chairman from 1961 to 1963. He had served as Conestoga District Training Chairman from 1964 to 1968 and Post 50 Committee Chairman from 1970 to present. He had also given strong service on a Council level in fund raising efforts. He had two boys who were Eagle Scouts, Jim Meadowcroft, now a doctor, and Dale Meadowcroft.

John Carrigan, another awardee, had been assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 68 in West Chester from 1958 to 1971. He served as Assistant Scoutmaster of the 1965 JLTC course and was a Roundtable Commissioner from 1965 to 1971. He served as an Assistant Scoutmaster of the Region III Chester County Council Wood Badge Course in 1970.

John T. Fergusen was cited with the Silver Beaver award, for his work as Explorer Advisor with Post 69 of Spring City. He also served as an Assistant District Commissioner and Explorer Round Table Advisor. He organized the first Council Explorer Road Rallies and Coed weekends.

Scout Thomas C. Ryberg of Kimberton was introduced and announcement made that he was to be recognized by the National Boy Scout Council Court of Honor with the Medal of Merit Award. The award was made at a later date.

That year Camp Jubilee opened with the Conestoga District Executive Nelson Wenner as the Camp Director and was assisted by Ray Pauley. Other Staff members at Jubilee that year were familiar names: Eppinger, Wallace, Macelhaes, Kelly, Barr, Jenkins and Bruce Ottey. Nelson Wenner worked closely with Ernie Heegard to deliver an excellent program for the troops. Meanwhile at Horseshoe, Ken Tinsman, the newly elected Lodge Chief was on the Staff. Other Lodge 22 Officers serving on the Staff included Matt Christenson and Jim Matthews. Matt departed later for the World Jamboree in Japan.

At the Horseshoe pool this summer was Phil Swab as Director from Kennett Square. He was assisted by Dave Kline, Ken Tinsman (whose dad had been on the Staff in 1946), Kurt Wolter of Devon, Tom Armstrong and Bill Grubb. John Voytilla was in the Field Sports department with Bill George; while Joe Eagan, Chris Wagner, Bill Mayer, Chris Rettew and Alan Fegley were mainstays in the Nature department. Father Sal held forth this summer taking care of the needs of the Catholic Scouts and serving up some of the best baked bread you could taste. No one will forget "Rusty Morgan" and his favorite ventriloquist, Jim Goudie. Jim was a key to the success of the campfire programs with his talent as a magician and ventriloquist.

The Annual Board dinner at Camp was as popular as ever. Attention was called to an assortment of projects that had been completed at Camp or were still in the process. The Order of the Arrow Lodge had an addition that members were working on; major electrical work and new filter were in place at the Horseshoe pool; and, numerous other improvements had been made.

During the summer at both Horseshoe and Jubilee, Cub Scout Family Days were held. This gave the Cubs and their parents an opportunity to see Scouting in action and to sample some of the special programs the Staff had prepared for them. Camp overall was a great success. Some 1854 Scouts from 93 of our troops were there and this year one troop from outside the Council attended. They had been attracted to Horseshoe by our reputation of having a top-notch Scouting Program. Late in the year, we had nine out-of-Council Scout troops interested in coming to Camp the next summer; a number of them from the Baltimore area. At the end of the regular season, Jubilee had 64 non-Scouts camp for a week under the sponsorship of the "JC's" as in the past several years.

Bob Gotwals, Chairman of the Philmont Committee, was active in planning that summer's Philmont expedition. Crew Leaders for the trip included Paul Longly, Scoutmaster of Parkesburg Troop 35, and Edward C. Ellison, of the Rising Sun Troop 28 Committee. Traveling by bus from the Downingtown Farmers' Market, their stops included a number of Air Force Bases along the way, a tour of the Indianapolis Speedway and an overnight stay at La Junta, Colorado. In LaJunta they were housed in the renowned Koshare Kiva. The Koshares were a Scout Troop, under the leadership of "Buck" Bursheers, which had received world-wide acclaim for their authentic Indian Dance presentations around the nation. Buck Bursheers, likewise, was widely reknowned, having been honored by the President of the United States. This stop was the last before the Scouts hit the Philmont Scout Ranch and their strenuous back-pacing journey into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Our World Jamboree Troop left for Japan and the experience of a lifetime for all the Scouts and leaders. Frank Peterson was the Chester County Troop Scoutmaster. Scouts from both the County and DelMarVa Council made up the troop. The following observations are from Eagle Scout Matt Christenson who was Patrol Leader of the "Edsel" Patrol on the trip and makes the following observations in his Patrol Log:

"The main event today was the opening ceremony. Only one word describes this highlight -'unequaled'. It was unequaled in terms of impressiveness. ...All the flags of the participating nations were raised behind us. Then the flags of the twelve previous Jamborees were raised along with the XII World Jamboree flag. To top off the introduction, each nation marched in review of the spectators with its own flag and announced its name on the microphone."

"HELP! TYPHOON! The rain in Spain falls mainly in Meija Subcamp. It is unbelievable. There is nothing but high winds and biting rains. There is a small lake at the end of our patrol site which we gave named Lake Meija. Many of the troops have been evacuated...today our troop evacuated its campsite and boarded a bus to a private elementary school. What a relief! ...slept on hard wood floor...after falling asleep at 9pm some of us were awakened by a song festival...the announcer frantically tried to find some troops who were awake...we were too far gone...he looked for another troop."

The Scouts did have a great time after living through the typhoon. Matt ends his Log:

"The Edsel Patrol thanks the adults for their outstanding leadership. Mr. Ashworth, who led the boys up Mt. Fuji and back. Mr. Palmer who was the Troop Quartermaster. Mr. Wendell, who helped us in times of crisis and entertained us with his story telling and great Church services. Mr. Peterson, our Scoutmaster who not only made sure we had a good time, but also had the courage to stand up and make sure we had decent lodgings when the going got rough. In all sincere respect, we do hereby affix our names...in recognition of the great leadership of these four men. (signed) Tim Wolfe, Ted Wells, Dave Macaleer, Hans Foxx, Dana Dreibelbis, Tom Cutting, Dave Ashworth - APL and Matt Christenson - PL."

National Scouting's "Operation Reach" anti-drug program, under the auspices of our Health and Safety Committee and its Chairman, Bob Gilroy, was implemented this year to educate our youth and families about the drug problems endemic in our society. These programs were well received by all who participated.

The first "School Night" for Scouting new Scout recruiting effort was conducted in September of 1971 under the direction of Amos E. Bassett, Jr., Chairman of the Operation and Extension Committee. Each District arranged for in - school presentations; individual Troops and Cub Packs held an open house where brief Scout programs were run and boys and parents could sign up. There were 600 new Scouts and 100 adults recruited this year. That effort would serve to strengthen our membership by year-end.

The first Den Chief Training Conference was held. This was an important step to insure quality work being done by these boy leaders as they gave service to various Cub Scout Dens. The Den Chief really became the ambassador of Boy Scouting to the ub Pack units. The association formed by the Scout would enable the Troop to more easily recruit new Scouts from the Pack.

Behind the scenes at our Scout Office are a number of staff personnel who support the Executives and the troops. These are the Secretaries and clerical personnel who put together a great deal of the material used on a daily basis and handling the many inquiries from volunteer Scouters. Many old-timers will recall Mrs. Dilworth in the High Street office among others. In 1971, after serving since 1953, Jannetta Dautle retired and was given a farewell party.

The Council that year learned of the passing of A. P. G. McGinnes, Sr.. He had been a faithful member of our Council Board for many years. His counsel and leadership were important to the successes of the Chester County Council over the years he served.

1972 It was announced that for the first time in the Council's history, we had 100 Scouts earn the coveted Eagle Scout rank in 1971. These young men were honored at the Penn Oaks Country Club later in the spring.

A number of awards were presented at the beginning of the year at the Council's Board Meeting. President Mitman and Scout Executive Walt Ryan recognized the fine service of Warren Gray as he was presented with his 50-year Scout Veteran award. Warren had given many years of his life devoted to Scouting and the Order of the Arrow. He had, in an earlier day, been Lodge Chief. Also, honored at this time was Scout Thomas Ryberg, formerly a Cub Scout in Kimberton Pack 49 and now in Troop 49 sponsored by the Kimberton Fire Company. Using his Scout Skill knowledge he had saved the life of a young playmate. He was presented with the National Court of Honor Medal of Honor.

A National Public Speaking Contest conducted by the Boy Scouts of America was locally sponsored by the Brandywine Toastmasters' Club for our Scouts. Over 50 Scouts from the Council participated. After a series of competitions, three of our Scouts went on to higher competitions. Eagle Scout James Matthews of Malvern Troop 7, Matt Christenson of Berwyn 113 and Ed McClurken of Valley Forge Troop 206 won on the Council level. Also competing were R. Bruce Robertson and P. Lohr of Oxford Troop 44. Jim Matthews won first in the State and third place at the Region III event.

Captain Gilroy, in the meantime was developing District teams for the "Operation Reach" program being put on in Troops and Explorer Posts in the Council. The teams were made up of Scoutmasters, Senior Patrol Leaders, Post Presidents and Advisors. Playing major roles in this project were Colonel R. Buchman, Scoutmaster Ray Noll, Senior Patrol Leader Dave Benedict of Troop 78 and Post President Allen Chafen.

The Order of the Arrow Lodge 22's membership was now over 1200 strong with great support from both adults and Scouts at the three Ordeal weekends each year...two in the spring and one in the fall....and at the spring OA Banquet. The Banquet usually was sold out with the attendance being about 500 people. The Lodge Chief and other officers were elected by the members at the first spring weekend. In 1972, Matt Christenson was elected Lodge Chief with Jim Matthews and Dave Bartlett as Vice Chiefs, Bruce Ottey was elected recording Secretary, Chuck Lawrence as Corresponding Secretary and Chris Rettew as Treasurer. Joe Knipe served as an Advisor and the keeper of the Lodge records as he had faithfully done for many years before. Ernie Heegard and Jim Gawthrop continued their fine service as the Lodge Lay Advisors.

There were a number of fine events during the spring. The Order of the Arrow was especially active under the leadership of Matt Christenson. The Wulamoc Newspaper published by Jim Matthews and Bruce Ottey kept Lodge members informed of happenings. Walt Ryan thanked the Lodge for their efforts in re-roofing the Dining Hall and many other projects that if the Council were to have contractors do the work, it would have cost $20,000. The Fifth Annual Wood Badge dinner was held to honor Baden-Powell at the Elverson Fire Company. Participating in the program that evening were Ken Yeager, Bruce Lord, Mervyn Piersol, Bob Hiltebeitle and Warren Hampton.

The Council Showando at Camp Jubilee helped introduce nearly 90 Scouters from 27 troops to new ideas or refresh their knowledge of tried and true Scouting Skills. A National Anti-Litter Day was held where Packs and Troops adopted a piece of highway or section of a town for clean-up. Council Explorer President Craig Veley of Post 50 attended a National Explorer Congress in Washington, D.C. and later made a report to the Board on the happenings at that event.

Other happenings during the spring included the Junior Leader Training Course at Jubilee with Cal Wallace as Scoutmaster. There was also the opportunity for Junior Leaders to attend the Schiff Reservation for Leadership and Ecology Training. The latter had been introduced a year or so previously. Eagle Scout Chris Rettew of Devon Troop 50 was one of the Scouts to attend the Ecology Course while Eagle Scout David C. Jones of Troop 50 attended that for Leadership Training. There, they were given training in the "new and improved" Scout Program to be introduced to Troops later in the year.

The Council Annual Dinner was held and following the tribute to the leaders, Silver Beaver awards were presented to Herbert F. Jewson, Jr., Clarence H. Lonsdale, Council President William H. Mitman, Harry A. Murvin, Sr. and Henry S.C. Swab. And, for the first time, the Silver Fawn award for exceptional service in Scouting by women, was presented to Hazel Jenkins. This award was the counterpart to the Silver Beaver.

Herb Jewson was recognized with the Silver Beaver for his Scouting service that began in 1927 in Philadelphia. He served there for many years. Following World War II, in 1952 he came to Devon Troop 50. He had been Committee Chairman, worked on the District in several capacities and was a Council Board member. He was a Philmont Tour Director in 1960. He also had served on numerous Scout Show committees.

Howie Lonsdale's Silver Beaver citation stated that he started Scouting as a boy in 1943 in New Jersey and served in several Scouting positions in North Carolina before coming to Chester County. He served as Assistant District Commissioner and Commissioner of the Lenni-Lenape District and Assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 43, West Chester. He was a Wood Badge member and had served in numerous other capacities in the Council.

Bill Mitman, Silver Beaver awardee, was our Council President and Board member. He had been a Scout in Downingtown Troop 2 in 1930 where he earned the Eagle rank. He had attended Camp Horseshoe as a youth. He had held various positions in West Chester Cub Pack 10 and West Chester Troop 93 before becoming a Board member.

Harry Murvin's Silver Beaver citation related that his Scouting began in 1920 with Coatesville Troop 42. He had served in different capacities with Pack 74 and Troop 74 of Coatesville. He served on the Brandywine District Committee and on the Council's Health and Safety Committee. He is a Vigil Honor member of Lodge 22.

Hank Swab served as an Assistant Scoutmaster and then Scoutmaster of Kennett Square Troop 24 for many years. He was an active Order of the Arrow member helping in the 1969 Order of the Arrow Section 4A conference. He was also serving as Assistant District Commissioner of the Octoraro District.

At that time the National Council Court of Honor established the Silver Fawn award with requirements similar to that of the Silver Beaver award except that it was for distinguished service to youth by a woman. The first Silver Fawn was presented to Hazel Jenkins of Colora, Maryland for her exceptional service to Scouting. Hazel was active in Cub Scouting in Colora where she had served from 1952 to the present with Pack 92. In 1972 she served as Council Chairman of the Cub Scout Pow Wow leadership training activity. Her spouse, Bill Jenkins, had received the Silver Beaver in an earlier year.

Donald Givler was elected Council President this spring and new Board members included Robert Lorgus, a former member of West Chester Troop 6 and a camper at Horseshoe in the mid 1930's; also, Dave Jones, former Troop Committee Chairman of Troop 50 in Devon and Conestoga District worker.

In May, Art McGinnes called upon Walt Ryan, Reub Uhler and Francis Maule to take stock of the entrance road along the Octoraro Creek to Camp Horseshoe and determine what would be required to put it into better condition. The road had been a continual maintenance problem, particularly after winter snows and rains. They presented their assessment of what was needed and so a road resurfacing project was agreed upon by the Board.

The Camp Horseshoe road was resurfaced with asphalt in June only a few days prior to the opening of Camp. Our Camp Staff was already in Camp for their week of set-up and preparation. About this time, the remnants of Hurricane Agnes 'skirted' into Camp. It rained...and rained...and rained! The creek rose...and rose...and rose! By the time the storm departed, the Louis Lester Memorial OA Bridge had also left us; water was everywhere with our pool completely inundated with just the tip of the high diving board out of water; a Jubilee four- wheel truck had been swept away; the Boat Docks at both camps were swept away; Shawana Campsite swept away; and...our newly laid road was heaved and broken into bits and pieces that were strewn on the hillside, in the creek and everywhere. In places, much of the road bank had been completed eroded by the rushing water. By the time the flood subsided there were only two days remaining before several hundred Scouts would be arriving. A daunting challenge for the Council and especially Ernie Heegard and his Staff!

Wasting no time, Ernie set in motion a monumental effort. Calling on the troop leaders, the Order of the Arrow and Board members, a County-wide mobilization took place. More than 200 Scouts and leaders showed up to start the repair process. Some were assigned to the pool where the electrical system had been completely knocked out and the pool filled with mud and debris of all sorts. Others attended to the road, replacing macadam where possible. Rocks and fill were moved in with supports along the creek banks; holes were filled with crushed stone and other materials to form as firm a roadbed as possible. Other workers set to work in other parts of both camps to make whatever repairs were necessary. Chemical Lehman was contacted and donated large pumps to empty the pool. (By the way, the Scouts were impressed at the size of some of the Carp that found their way to the pool!) And, yes, Walt Ryan was there with sleeves rolled up.

Exhausted, but satisfied, all eventually were able to relax and reflect on the happenings of those past few days. Although the pool was not ready until the middle of the first week, Camp opened on time thanksto the efforts of all!

At Camp Jubilee, Ray Pauley was the new Camp Director. He was to continue in this capacity for the ensuing years. He, too, was faced with the task of readying camp after the floods with his Staff.

President Givler and Walt Ryan expressed their thanks to all for the exceptional effort made to open the Camp on time at the Board steak and corn-on-the-cob dinner arranged for by Ernie Heegard and Rob Hopkins, Commissary Director. Ray Pauley, Director of Jubilee was complimented on his fine work. There were a number of guests to whom special thanks was given not only for their help at Camp but in special Council activities. From the standpoint of finance thanks were extended to Russell Mosteller, Allen Panell, Steve MacNeil, Edward Wilson, David Frees and Robert Foose. For their materials, service and assistance, thanks were given to Harry Murvin, Robert Thomas, Robert Brooks, Howard Thompson, Harry Cunningham, Edward Kavanaugh, David McCardel, George Warrick, Robert Tingley, Al Cappelli and Robert Pierson. Recognized for training and special events help were Hazel Jenkins, Jim Bell, Charles Case, Cal Wallace, Mark Peterson, Marshall Haws, Charles Nelson, William Jones, Frank Peterson and Albert Foard. Bob Lorgus was thanked for making it possible to get a new Ford Truck to replace the one lost at Jubilee in the flood.

Ossie Spellman continued his active role with his West Chester Troop 6. He came to Camp almost every summer with his boys since he was a camper and staff member in the 1930's. Dick Bennett, Council Executive, recalls this experience about Ossie:

"Ossie, when he was Stockade Leader of Boonesboro in the 1930's, would return to his cabin after dinner each evening to read a book. In the 1980's Ossie was again a Troop Leader at Camp. One evening, as he had done as a youth, he was sitting in the leader's cabin reading when two men sauntered into the Boonesboro site. As they were walking in, one remarked to the other that he had been a camper in this campsite in his youth and remembered that his Stockade leader would traditionally return and read a book after dinner each evening. What a surprise it was for that former camper to find Ossie in that familiar spot on that evening! They had a great time reminiscing."

By the end of Camp, 2066 Scouts had camped at Horseshoe and Jubilee representing 102 troops. There were five out-of-Council troops this summer on the Reservation. In all, this was a great year for Scouting in Cheater County as our membership reached over the 8670 mark.

1973 Since Scouting's early days in America, and as it was initially conceived by its Founder Lord Baden-Powell, the objectives of Scouting to train young men to be useful citizens, were achieved through a program that emphasized outdoor-oriented skills in a camping environment. Recognizing problems encountered in urban environments that limited this type of opportunity, the National Council introduced in the 1960's, for inner-city boys in disadvantaged areas, a program that de-emphasized the camping and outdoor skills. In part, Chester County had gone on a different tack in that the disadvantaged boys had their own camping opportunities at Jubilee during the summer coordinated through the Junior Chamber of Commerce.

In the fall of 1972, however, National introduced further changes affecting the entire Scouting program. Introduced was a "new and improved Scouting Program" for Boy Scouts. While ambitious and well-intended, the Program had a marked impact on Scouting and was to leave less than the best impressions with seasoned Scout leaders trained in what was considered one of the finest youth movements in the World. The "new and improved" program changed a number of things. With that program, a boy could achieve the First Class rank without having camped; the age requirement was lowered so that any boy completing the fifth grade and was at least ten years of age could become a Boy Scout; merit badges, normally earned after a Scout achieved First Class and considered more mature, now could be earned at the Tenderfoot and Second Class level; a new rank was added, that of "Scout" to be earned when joining a troop; Eagle Scout requirements now required 24 merit badges and other ranks of Star and Life were also affected. A series of Skill awards could be earned and recognized with "belt loops". Advancement reviews, formerly the responsibility of a troop committee board of review, was now given over to the Patrol Leaders Council (formerly the Green Bar). A Leadership Corps was established for teaching skills and serving in other leadership roles. Greater emphasis was given to boy-planned activities and lesser emphasis on the Scoutmaster's role.

New Cornerstone Training sessions were conducted for troop adult leaders to introduce the new programs. Among many of the seasoned Scouters, there was great concern on how the new program was to be administered. It was felt that it would have far reaching effects on the quality of Scouting. There were parts of the new program that were well-received and readily implemented. There was a growing consensus that the changes would have a great impact on our membership, both boy and leader. It was to have a marked influence nationally.

About the time the new program was introduced, National announced a reorganization of the various Scout Regions into six Regions with different sections within each Region. Chester County Council became part of Section 5A of the Northeast Scout Region.

In 1973, the Lodge 22 Order of the Arrow members were busy with special projects. A "Where To Go Camping" book was being worked on by Kurt Wolter, "JB" Rettew and Charley Weir. A Camp Horseshoe History was being prepared and a booklet, "Introduction For New Members", was produced to be used with the Order of the Arrow Handbook. The Louis Lester Bridge taken out by the previous year's flood was rebuilt with help from "Richey" Richardson and many others.

Matt Christenson took an active role in the Order of the Arrow Section 5A and was elected Chief of the Section this year. He and other officers in the Section were at work planning a Conclave that Octoraro Lodge 22 would host in the next year. It was a challenging opportunity for our Lodge since the Conclave would set the standard for future conferences of this type.

Other things were happening in the Council. There was a Scout Show held outside of West Chester where Scouts showed off their skills. At the Council Recognition Dinner in June, Don Givler, the Council President, welcomed the guests and paid tribute to the Scouters and their wives. Here, also, Walter Burlin, Harry Crater, Thomas C. Stilwell and Herbert A. Warner were recognized with the Silver Beaver award and Ruth Crater with the Silver Fawn award.

Harry Crater was a long-time Scouter whose years of service to Cub Scouting with Cedarville Pack 95 were cited. He was active in the District Training Committee in the area of Cub Leader Training from 1962 to the present. Also, he was actively involved in the Council Cub Pow Wow training and Den Chief training activities for the Council.

The Silver Fawn award was presented to Ruth Crater, Harry's spouse. She, too, had distinguished service to Cub Scouting in the Cedarville Pack. She took an active part in the Council's Pow Wow training as well as the training given to Boy Scouts serving as Den Chiefs. This was the second time that the Silver Fawn was presented.

Thomas C. Stilwell was an Eagle Scout and former Scoutmaster of Devon Troop 50. He had become a Scout in 1936 and had been continuously registered since then with the Troop. He had been Assistant Scoutmaster and then returned after military duty to serve as Scoutmaster of Troop 50 from 1952 to 1959. He had served in the Conestoga District as Camping Chairman and in the Council on numerous camporee staffs. He was a Philmont Contingent leader. He was a Jamboree leader in 1973 for the National Jamboree at Moraine State Park that year. He also had continued an active involvement with the Troop as an Assistant Scoutmaster working with boys as they joined Scouting.

Herb Warner had served as an Assistant Scoutmaster and then Scoutmaster of Brandywine Troop 51 since 1956. He was Scoutmaster of the Council's JLTC course in 1970 and a recipient of the Wood Badge Beads. A Vigil Honor member, in 1963 he was one of the crew leaders on the Council's trip to the Region 10 Canoe Base. He also served as a leader on Philmont trips and the Sommers Canoe Base expedition for the Council.

Willard Burlin was cited for his fine service to youth which began in 1944 in the DelMarVa Council. He had been a Philmont contingent leader in 1958, served in several capacities in the Octoraro District for training and camping. He had completed Wood Badge training in 1958.

While Camp Horseshoe formed the basis for our summer long-term camping, the National Council for the first time split the National Jamboree into two camps with a total attendance of 64000 Scouts. The Eighth National Jamboree had one section at the Couer d'Alene Farragut State Park, Idaho site for troops from the western part of the country and the second site was at Moraine State Park, north of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Also, for the first time regular Scout troops were invited. Before this time only provisional troops composed of Scouts from different units attended. Chester County Council was well represented at the Moraine State Park site which had been developed by the Army Corps of Engineers. The theme for the Jamboree was "Building To Serve."

In May, the Council's Jamboree shake-down encampment was held at Hibernia Park. Under the leadership of Clarence "Howie" Lonsdale, our Jamboree troops were checked for readiness. Then in July, it was off, by bus, to the Jamboree!

Harvey Rettew was Scoutmaster of one of the Council's provisional troop, capably assisted by Herb Warner among others. His (distant) cousin, "JB" Rettew, was Scoutmaster of Troop 50 of Devon with 44 Scouts and five leaders at the Jamboree. It turned out that Troop 50 was the second largest troop at the Jamboree. Scouts were treated to special opening and closing ceremonies with fantastic fireworks displays that really "had the joint rocking!" Camp-wide games were held so that Scouts from different parts of the country could get to know one another. There were merit badge midways, sailing and canoeing as well as friendship campfires with other troops and other sub-camps. Chester County was camped in the Camp Washington Sub-camp. It was a great event for all who took part and good opportunity for Scouts and leaders to get the immense picture of the Scouting Movement.

Other of our Scouts were on their trip to the Philmont Scout Ranch this summer to tackle the Tooth of Time, Trail Peak and Baldy Mountain.

Horseshoe also was tops under Ernie Heegard's leadership. Eric Lorgus was Assistant Camp Director. Jim Goudie, ventriloquist and magician, was the ever-popular Program Director. Camp Chaplains were Father John Ferrence, and Fred Page. Rob Hopkins was in charge of Food Services and did an exceptional job to make sure all were well fed. Phil Swab was Aquatics Director and Bob Behrle was Campcraft Director. Joe Egan of Post 50 and Devon 114 was Nature Director, assisted by Chris Rettew , Al Fegley and Bill Mayer. At Handicraft was Dave Cline and in the Field Sports Department was Dave Swab. Jim Matthews held forth in Headquarters. The heavy responsibility for Maintenance was under the leadership of Steve D'Antonio assisted by John Taylor, Dave Benedict and Mark Cavanaugh. Gary Lorgus was Camp Aide.

John B. Rettew recalls:

"Who will ever forget those opening Sunday night Campfire programs with the Spirit of the Horseshoe and then the "Sump Pumps" with their rendition of 'That Good Old Mountain Dew' that recalled the early pre-Horseshoe days when there were stills on the property. I recall, too, the special magic presentations of Jim Goudie and his friend Rusty. Ernie Heegard's tales of the founding of Horseshoe and other stories were always enthralling to the boys and leaders, Then the songs; and, finally, the Robert Service poem "The Cremation of Sam McGee" by Ernie!

Ray Pauley was Camp Director at Jubilee. He brought together an active Staff. As the popularity of Jubilee grew, it was necessary to build the staff. This year's Staff included: Bob Hall, John Wallace and D. Brackin; Also, J. Bloss, R. Dollinger, G. Steffen, S. Gebhard, B. Stienstra, J. Burkhart, K. Trauk, R. Bryant, J. Lang, O. Dollinger, S. Kelly, J. Agnew and J. Harry.

In September, Octoraro Lodge 22 had an Open House at Camp Horseshoe, for families of the Lodge members. The purpose was to raise money for the renovation and addition to the Lodge Building and give all the opportunity to see Horseshoe, enjoy its facilities and, for the first time, let outsiders see the OA Ceremonial Circle and a special Indian Ceremony.

There were many other activities enjoyed in the fall. The Scout Round-up was an effective way of recruiting new Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. However, the impact of the new Scout program introduced a year before was starting to have its affect on the membership.

1974 In this period, Evans "Pud" Warner was the Council Commissioner and provided an experienced hand in guiding the Commissioners Staff. Their job of making sure the Cub and Scout troops re-chartered on time was a vital function of keeping Scouting on the move in Chester County.

The Order of the Arrow busily prepared for the coming Section 5A Conclave that spring. The entire Lodge membership throughout the Council was mobilized with the objective being that this was the first Conclave to be held by the new Section and should be the pace-setter for those to come. Our Lodge Chief for this event was Jim Matthews. The Camp was especially prepared to welcome the visitors and to be a showcase for Scouting in the Council. Host Guides under the leadership of Devon 50's Dick Burk were primed on their duties to be of service in any way for all the delegates from eastern Pennsylvania and our sister Lodge from Norfolk, the Blue Heron Lodge.

The Conclave had assorted exhibits of camping equipment, Lodge program ideas and many Scout-related and OA demonstrations, equipment, etc. Octoraro Lodge also was involved in putting on Ceremonial presentations at the Lodge Circle and seminars on Lodge operations. We took pride in the fact that we were the first Lodge in the new Section to be recognized as a National Standard Lodge. The attendees were impressed with the fellowship feast and particularly the culinary expertise of Ken Yeager and others. Since the mushroom industry was big in the County, this became the staple for the evening snack. There were pickled mushrooms, fried ones, raw ones and all sorts of mushrooms prepared in ways unknown to many; but, great to eat. Our Lodge 22 out-did itself in setting the example. Matt Christenson was unanimously re-elected Section Chief at the Conclave.

At the start of the Camp season, the Annual Scouter Recognition Dinner was held at the Penn Oaks Country Club. Scouters came up from Camp and other parts of the Council to receive well-earned recognition and to hear PauL Hafer, Camping Chairman of the Area 5 of the Northeast Scout Region. This evening the Silver Beaver was presented to J. Edgar McComsey, John B. Rettew,III , James Riley, John D. Swier and Margaret E. Gay.

J. Edgar "Gumps" McComsey was a long-time Scouter with Coatesville Troop 74, where he was a Scout in 1931 and earned Eagle in 1938. He had been Scoutmaster of Troop 74 from 1958 to 1962 and was now a Committeeman. He had been one of the crew leaders of the Council's trip to the Sommers Base in 1963. In 1964 and 1973 he had been an Assistant Scoutmaster of the Council's Jamboree Troops. He was a Scout camper and Staff member at Horseshoe and active in his Troop and the District in a number of leadership positions.

John "JB" Rettew had been a camper at Horseshoe in 1944 and later served on the Staff. An Eagle Scout, he had been Troop Committee Chairman of Troop 100 of Paoli in its formative years, served on the Cub Pack 47 Committee and had rejoined his old Scout Troop 50 in 1966. Here he served as Scoutmaster since 1968 He was a Vigil Honor member and Trustee of Octoraro Lodge 22 and on its Executive Committee.

The Silver Fawn award was presented to Margaret E. Gay. Margaret had been active on the Mothers Committee of Troop 54 and Troop 72 of Pomroy and in the Cub Scouting program since 1971 for Pack 72. Margaret assisted in organizing both Scout Troops with which she was associated and she served in 1972 on the District Training and Activities Committee . In addition, she served at numerous First Aid Meets and assisted with the Council Pow Wow among many other training events. This was the third and final time the Silver Fawn award was to be presented. In future years women would receive the Silver Beaver award.

Other Silver Beaver awardees included Jim Riley who became a Scout in Rising Sun Troop 28 in 1926. He had been Scoutmaster of Troop 102, Rock Springs, from 1958 to 1962 and was currently a Committeeman. He had been a Philmont Contingent Leader in 1958. He also designed and provided the materials for the Louis Lester Memorial OA Bridge and assisted in its re-construction after the 1972 flood.

Silver Beaver recipient John Swier was an active Scouter for 35 years. He had been Scoutmaster of Troop 55 in 1941 to 1944. He then served as Chairman of Kimberton Post 49. He also was active on the Commissioner Staff and had served in a number of capacities on the Council level.

At Camp Horseshoe that summer things were hopping. Jim Goudie was back as Program Director with Dave Cline as Food Services Director. Chuck Lawrence was in charge of Handicraft and Bill Grubb was Field Sports Director. Matt Christenson was Campcraft Director assisted by Chuck Cline, Ed Feeney and Rich Mason. Chris Rettew was Nature and Ecology Director with Rob D'Antonio, Al Fegley, Rob Harrison and Pete Tunnell as assistants. Steve D'Antonio was back at the helm of Maintenance and Dave Anderson was Aquatics Director. Dave Benedict was in the Field Sports Department as Archery Director and Chuck Lawrence was in Handicraft as Director. John Taylor and Gary Lorgus were in the Maintenance Department. It is to be noted that among the Troop leaders in Camp that summer were former Horseshoe campers Bill Trowill (formerly with Troop 11), Bill Lenker (Troop 50), Bob Thomas(Troop 74) and Al Fegley (Phoenixville).

One of the more popular happenings in Camp was the "Uncalled Four" barbershop quartet who serenaded in the Dining Hall and at campfire programs as well as Troop Campfires. The quartet was made up of Steve Darby, the lead; Rob Hopkins, baritone; Buck Jones, bass; and, Guy Bernardin, tenor. This group added much to the spirit of the Staff and the Camp that summer.

Horseshoe and Jubilee had another fine season with more Scouts than in previous years. The fine merit badge and Scout Skill programs combined with our excellent location and facilities as well as fine Camp Staffs began to attract more out-of-Council Troops. This would continue for many years to come.

That summer of 1974, all eyes were focused on Washington, DC where hearings were being held on the Watergate Hotel break-in. The Camp Echo newspaper kept campers informed of happenings. As a result of those investigations, President Richard Nixon resigned from the office of President. On August 9th, Gerald Ford was sworn in as the 38th President of the United States. Noteworthy, was the fact that President Ford was an Eagle Scout in Michigan as a boy and the first one to become President of the United States.

1975 Much of the story of our Council is related directly to and revolves around the Horseshoe Scout Reservation. The legacy of Chief Heistand, the work done by Chief Price and the efforts of Louis Lester in his 16-year tenure with the Chester County Council served to further the exceptional foundation of Scouting here. Council Executives who followed and those of the present day also contribute to perpetuating the fine programs and building on the traditions of the Council's past each in his own fashion. But much can also be said of our Council Officers and the volunteers who devote their talent and time to the success of the Council.

Howie Lonsdale in 1975 was serving as our Council Commissioner. Donald Givler was a strong force in leading the Council as President. Through their efforts and those of Scout Executive Walt Ryan, the Council would maintain its eminence in the Northeast Region and Nation. While the membership in Scouting and the Council was being affected by the poor reception given the "new and improved program" and by social conditions over which there was little control, these years were some of the best for Scouting in Chester County.

An article in the Sunday Philadelphia Bulletin about "dwindling" Scout ranks prompted the following response from Louis McCreight, then Chairman of the Conestoga District:

"Mr. Darling makes some good points on a comparative basis to show that the ranks of Scouting are down from previous years. We as scout leaders and citizens are concerned and trying to reverse this trend which we believe is temporary.

However, let me cite some figures for the Boy Scouts. Nationally, there are 5.8 million registered Scouts and Scouters and 57 million alumni. In my...Upper Main Line area from Wayne to Frazer...we have nearly 600 Cub Scouts, 950 Boy Scouts and well over 100 Explorer Scouts, plus some 800 adult Scouters. These young men represent over 45% of the available young men in the area. So whatever the many reasons for the decline, a higher percentage of boys join the Boy Scouts than any other single organization, and it is hardly dwindling away.

What is so vitally important however is to realize that Scouting is the most productive and the only youth program primarily aimed at leadership training. ...Remember that a very large fraction of the leaders in every facet of life in the United States received much of their training for leadership from the Scouts.

If we didn't have the Scouts, we would need to invent them in order to have the best country in the world in which we live."

On other fronts this year, our Lodge 22 was on the verge of its 50th Anniversary and the Nation was on the doorstep of celebrating its Bicentennial in 1976. Much thought and planning was going into how best to celebrate those events in the forthcoming year. A number of Districts were gearing their camporees around the Bicentennial theme to stimulate the Scouts to think of this momentous occasion. Valley Forge Park, in 1976, would play a prominent role in this celebration.

There was the Council First Aid Meet in January and the Council's newest Eagle Scouts had a Career Day followed by the Eagle Recognition Dinner. District Annual dinners were held leading up to the Council's Recognition Dinner in June at the Penn oaks Country Club. Vincent L. Verdiani of Paoli was the new Council President.

At the Recognition Dinner, organized by Art McGinnes, J. Lee Everett, III, President of Philadelphia Electric, was the featured speaker. Scout Executive Walt Ryan recognized the fine service of Donald Givler for the past three years as President with a statuette. The highlight of the evening was the Silver Beaver presentations with Council Commissioner Howie Lonsdale narrating as the presentations were made to Donald N. Givler, Joseph B. Knipe, John J. Pavlick, Robert B. Thomas and Joseph D. Wooding.

Don Givler was cited for his Scouting that began as a boy in Illinois. He had served on the Committee of West Chester Troop 6 and on the Council Board since 1965. He had been Council President from 1972 to 1975.

Joe Knipe's Scouting began in 1951 on a Pack Committee in Merion, Pennsylvania. From 1953 to present he was a Committeeman for Devon Troop 50 and Assistant Scoutmaster in 1955 - 1957. He organized and served as Explorer Advisor to Devon Post 50 from 1951 to 1971. Post 50 was one of the most active Posts in the Council under his leadership. He was currently serving as an Associate Advisor. A Vigil honor member, he was active in Lodge 22 as Advisor to the Secretary and Treasurer. In 1960 he served on the Staff at the National Jamboree.

John Pavlick of Phoenixville was cited for his 23 years of service most recently as District Commissioner and Chairman of the French Creek District. He was a member of the Council Board.

Bob Thomas had been a Scout in Troop 84 in Coatesville and attended Camp Horseshoe, served on the Staff there and then was Scoutmaster of that Troop from 1954 to 1956. He then became Committeeman of Troop 74, the Assistant Scoutmaster and eventually that Troop's Scoutmaster from 1972 to the present. He served as a Philmont Trail Advisor and Contingent Director. As a Vigil member of the Order of the Arrow, he rendered tremendous service to the on-going maintenance of both Council Camps.

John Wooding had served as Scoutmaster of a troop in Drexel Hill for 15 years. Then for ten years was District Advancement Chairman in the Chester County Council. In 1966 and 1967 he was Scoutmaster of West Chester Troop 14 and now served on its Committee.

An active summer season was ahead for the Scouts at Camp Horseshoe and our Jubilee Camp. Jim Goudie served again as Program Director. Stu Watson was the Food Services Director, Alan Fegley was Nature and Ecology Director and Bill Grubb was the Aquatics Director. Matt Christenson was back in Campcraft and John Taylor was in charge of Maintenance. One of the exciting new adventures in the Campcraft area in this period was the Rappelling tower. It challenged all the brave Scouts who put on the belay ropes and carabiners!

Karl "Moose" Winsch, Scoutmaster of Troop 108 of Green Lane, Valley Forge Council, brought his Scouts to Camp Horseshoe for the first time that year. They have been at Horseshoe every year since then to the present. His observations are interesting from the standpoint of an out-of- Council active troop:

"I was a late arrival at Horseshoe, having spent my previous 25 years of Scouting at the Camp Delmont and Resica Falls Scouteservation. I was a delegate of my OA Lodge 43 to the Section 5A Conclave at Horseshoe in 1974. That weekend I spent at Horseshoe sure sold me on the camp. So I talked with Matt Christenson about bringing my troop to camp, as, at that Conclave weekend, I had experienced a trip down memory lane. The bugle calls, the marching at Retreat were just the things I remembered at Delmont as a boy. Horseshoe was a seven-day camp and less expensive than the six-day Valley Forge Council camps. I brought 48 Scouts that first year and what a week it was! I could not believe all the talent in camp. Ernie Heegard was unbelievable all his input and never ending energy. Jim Goudie was a great talent and Rob Hopkins was the cook. I was amazed at the good food and so much of it. The next year we brought 50 Scouts and six leaders."

This was a great testimony for Horseshoe and Moose has been a strong supporter of Camp Horseshoe over the years as well as a hard worker in many different Octoraro Lodge 22 projects over the years. More of this later.

While Camp Horseshoe provided a central camp program with its meals served in the Allen Memorial Dining Hall, Camp Jubilee's Jambo Style camping continued to be a strong magnet for troops interested in the experience of doing their own cooking and taking advantage of the aquatics and other programs offered. Ray Pauley, as Director, again brought together a group of seasoned Staff members and new ones to provide the troops with program support. This year's staff included Bruce Robertson, D. Dollinger and R. Dollinger. Other members were: Bloss, Foresman, Gains, Walker, Frank, Lightcap, Keegan, Brant, Baer, Kabakjian, Butcher and Van Otten.

With regard to the Order of the Arrow, it is important to take note of some of the people long active in Lodge activities in this period who became Vigil Honor members of 1974 and 1975. Most of these people continue to provide Cheerful Service to this day. Among these were George Balderston, Frank Rodgers, Alan Forssmark, Warren F. Lawrence, Steve McNeil, Rob McCarter, Bill Moffet and Rich Mason, Sr.. nor should we forget, George Bellgrau and Harry Holden.

As fate would have it, others had recognized the talents of our Scout Executive Walt Ryan. He received a promotion and was off to the Atlanta Area Council where he would serve Scouting until his retirement. We had grown to love this man who would pitch in and work with the rest of us regardless of the task. He, like his predecessors, left a fine legacy for the future of Scouting in the Chester County Council.