JUBILEE !

1957 - 1966

There's gold, and it's haunting and haunting;
It's luring me on as of old;
Yet it isn't the gold that I'm wanting
So much as just finding the gold.
It's the great, big, broad land 'way up yonder,
It's the forests where silence has lease;
It's the beauty that thrills me with wonder,
It's the stillness that fills me with peace.

- From "The Spell of the Yukon" by Robert Service

This period of time marks many Scouting happenings in the World, the United States and for the Chester County Council. The World Scouting Movement celebrated its Golden Jubilee Anniversary in 1957 in England. 1958 marked the 30th Anniversary of Camp Horseshoe and the expansion of its camping facilities. And, in 1960, the Golden Jubilee of the Boy Scout Movement in the United States was celebrated. These were historic moments for Scouting and the Council.

1957 In March, farewells were said to Chief Lester upon his retirement from Scouting and his association of sixteen years with the Council. During that time he had left his mark on the Council and Horseshoe and created many friends and fond memories. He agreed to return as needed for the Camp Expansion Fund Campaign that was entering its critical phase in 1957.

That March, Donald C. Simpson of the Lebanon, Pennsylvania Council joined Chester County as our new Scout Executive. Supported by a strong Council Board, a fine volunteer organization and the impetus of the growth of Scouting in the County, he quickly took hold of the reigns and moved forward to meet the challenges presented. The Camp Expansion Fund was growing under the leadership of Monroe Nute of Kennett Square, who was its General Chairman. President John H. Ware, 3rd formed a strong committee to continue the operations of Camping, Activities, Health and Safety, Finance and other key departments. Art McGinnes, Jr. continued his role of Scout Commissioner, seeing to the maintenance of the Troops, Cub Packs and Exploring units with his cadre of District Commissioners and Neighborhood Commissioners.

Training was important to the health of Scouting in the Council. There were numerous training opportunities presented - "Train the Trainers" for adult Scouters; Junior Leader Training conducted by the Council; and, those opportunities for both adults and boy leaders presented at the Schiff Reservation in New Jersey. A number of Scouters took advantage of the Wood Badge Courses offered there and many of our boy leaders received special training at Schiff. These young men returned and became a part of our Council training sessions at Horseshoe that spring for 75 Scouts. Consideration was also being given to setting up a training program for Troop Senior Patrol Leaders at Camp Horseshoe the week before their Troop's arrival in camp to orient them to the Camp Program. It was thought that they could be of greater assistance to their Troop Leader during their camping period. This plan was adopted and first implemented in the 1958 season when our Camp facilities had been expanded. It was identified as Eagle Claw Training.

Mr. George P. Orr had offered a challenge in 1957 to Eagle Scouts to write an essay on "Causes of Our Teen Age Gang Warfare, and How It may Be Counteracted" for which a prize was offered. There were three entries that caught the judges' eyes. First Prize was awarded to Richard Swope of Troop 14, West Chester; Second Prize to Richards Stephens, Troop 44 of Oxford; and, Third Prize was awarded to Judson Gears of Explorer Ship 30 of West Grove.

J. Holland Heck was Camp Director that summer. Edward "Casey" Jones, now a minister, returned to the Staff for another year. He had been a camper at Camp Horseshoe in 1941. Also on the Staff was Ernie Heegard who had been a camper in 1946. Among the other Staff members were Ed Fitzkee and Jon Boyer of Kennett Square; Tom Myers of Avondale; Bob Meir and Tom Orcutt of Phoenixville; Dave Taylor, David Neal and Gerald Shaw of Parkesburg; Doug Braendel, Dave Paulovich, Gil Siddall and Tom Hickman of Malvern; Joe Goss, Tom Shock and Dick Moran of Oxford; Dave Morris of Wagontown; and Dan Mauger of Paoli.

The Camp Expansion Fund Campaign had progressed to the point that President Ware had appointed a Camp Planning Committee who would see to the most efficient use for the funds and to set the plans in motion. Appointed to this group were: Harold Schramm, Harold Hannum, Dr. Anton Hess, J. Holland Heck, Richard Peterson and Fridjof Tobiessen. Tobiessen was put in charge of developing the architectural plans. This committee set goals for the expansion that would double the size of the Dining Hall facility; create four new camp sites of which two would be wooden shelters and two would be tent sites; establish the Senior Patrol Leader Training Camp at Timberline; build a new Nature Lodge if funds were available before the 1958 season; and open up the Lewis property with a trail or road for an Explorer Base which was to be staffed by a full time Staff member. In September the Committee gave the go ahead to clear land for the camp sites.

In 1957 the Fourth National Jamboree took place at Valley Forge to which the Council sent a number of troops. It was fitting that Francis Maule, a Scouting veteran of 42 years, was one of the Scoutmasters for the Council there. The Jamboree focused on the Golden Anniversary of the Worldwide Scouting Movement. In addition, that year a full contingent of Scouts went to the Philmont Scout Ranch.

Dr. Anton Hess reported that fall that Camp again had been fully occupied. There were 955 Scouts who spent a week or more at Horseshoe. These campers represented 68 troops from the Council. It was also announced that J. Holland Heck would return in 1958 as Camp Director. Dr. Hess also proposed the new campsite names to the Board for approval. They were: Roberts, Rothrock, Octoraro; Lenni Lenape; Conestoga and Shawana. It was suggested that the Explorer Base campsites be named Lewis and Clark and Frontier. These names were approved.

Camp construction had been placed under the Board Leadership of Colonel John C. Bole and his committee. Plans proceeded for the projects to be completed by the next spring for the opening of Camp. This would be an appropriate way to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of our Camp.

In other affairs in the Council, there were the District First Aid Meets in December to determine what patrols would represent the District at the Council First Aid Meet in January. Also, Clyde Moyer who was an Explorer Scout was selected as Council Explorer Representative for special Region and National Explorer events.

1958 This year was the 30th Anniversary for Camp Horseshoe. It was a fitting time to celebrate and to be in the process of expanding Horseshoe's fine facilities. It was also a time to reflect on the events from the previous year at our Annual Meeting and Dinner.

President John H. Ware, 3rd presided at the Meeting and presented our Annual Report. It marked the success in our Council's Scouting Programs the previous year which gave momentum for the new year. There were 47 Scouts who achieved Scouting's highest advancement honor - Eagle Scout; The 1957 Valley Forge National Jamboree encampment had been the largest ever to be held. 114 Chester County Scouts and Explorers with nine leaders were there. In Europe, at the Jubilee Jamboree that summer, there were five of our Explorer Scouts. Our Philmont contingent had 28 Explorers and four leaders.

The Annual Dinner was highlighted by the presentation of the Silver Beaver to three Scouters who had rendered distinctive service to the youth of the Council.

Francis L. Maule had become a Scout in 1915 in Cochranville Troop 1, many years before our Council was Chartered. From 1925 to 1932 he was Scoutmaster of Troop 28 of Rising Sun, Maryland, which he had organized. Then, from 1945 to 1952, he was Cubmaster of Pack 13 of Oxford which he helped to organize and subsequently served as its Committee Chairman until 1958. He was a member of the Order of the Arrow and served as Assistant Scoutmaster of Jamboree Troop 10 for the 1957 Jamboree at Valley Forge. From 1955 to the present evening he was Scoutmaster of Oxford Troop 13. He had been part of the Council Committee which located and recommended purchase of The Horseshoe Scout Reservation. The citation read "His loyalty and leadership has carved indelible 'Guide Posts on the Scouting Trail.'"

Bernard L. Morris was recognized as a tireless and enthusiastic Scouter, especially in his efforts for the Camp Expansion Fund. From 1940 to 1956 he had been Chairman of the Brandywine District Finance Committee and subsequently served as its Vice Chairman.

The third Silver Beaver was presented to Earl C. Supplee. He was Committee Chairman of Troop 34 from 1932 to 1944. Then he served as Chairman of the Finance Committee of the Minquas Trail District until 1951. From that year on he served as a member of the Council Board of Directors and Chairman of the Finance Committee. He was a key person on the Council Board dealing with the eleven Community Chests and United Funds in which the Council was an agency. He was also an important part of the Camp Expansion Fund Campaign.

After the Annual Dinner, attention once more turned to the plans for Camp Horseshoe. In February the architectural plans for the new buildings at Camp were out for bidding. The Scouts and Leaders of Phoenixville Troop 56 were busy making 55 tent platforms for use this coming summer helping to defray the new construction expenses. Their "Good Turn" was to be recognized later in that year.

J. Frederic Wiese, now Chairman of Region III, visited the Council and was highly complimentary of the work being done on the Camp expansion and the growth in our Scouting Programs. By March our membership had grown to 4,585 boys and 2,181 leaders. The Philmont Ranch sign-up was more popular than ever with 103 Scouts on board. All of this activity reflected the high quality of the Council's operations.

Camp construction was under way with White Brothers of Coatesville being the successful bidder. In March, the new well was being drilled at the Explorer Base, Staff Showers were being added to the central Camp showers at Horseshoe and the Board had authorized the development of plans for two troop winter cabins.

Joseph H. Balthis was the Chairman of the Camping Committee replacing Dr. Anton B. Hess who had resigned due to business conflicts. It was noted that a severe snow storm in March had damaged many of the trees in Camp. This would provide a good deal of clean-up work for the Order of the Arrow before Camp opened.

The Council Activities Committee under J. Gilmore Wilson reported on numerous events for the spring. A Council wide "Good Turn" event in cooperation with Good Will Industries had Scouts collecting old clothing for rehabilitation. District Camporees were scheduled for May with a Council Jamborette for later in the year. Also planned was a Gettysburg Pilgrimage for Explorers.

Construction progressed at Horseshoe and the Explorer Base. At the Base, two activities shelters and five Adirondack shelters were under construction. Ernie Heegard was the first Director of the Explorer Base that summer and was assisted by Pete Tobiessen of Berwyn.

In 1958, the Order of the Arrow Lodge Building neared completion. Much work had been done over the years since ground was broken in 1952. Many hands were involved in its construction over that period of time. The key motivator for the construction was Milt Jones of Parkesburg who devised many different schemes to raise the money for the building and to move along its construction. Many craftsmen played a part in its erection. Joe Coates of Oxford, a stone mason, agreed to build the fireplace if the Lodge would furnish the rock. He spent many weekends with Lodge members in completing the fireplace. The mantle piece was the work of tombstone maker, Marvin Knauer. He also made the marker for over the mantelpiece that is engraved with the Lodge totem. There was a time capsule imbedded behind that stone marker to be opened by future Lodge members.

Thanks to Chief Lester, a loan from the Camp Expansion Fund was secured that permitted the Lodge Building to be completed. The Lodge Chief this year was Charles Ax, Jr. The labor was provided by our Lodge Brothers who spent many weekends of their time dedicated to the work at hand. While much effort was expended on the Building, our Lodge members also made great headway in preparing Camp for the opening day.

The Horseshoe Camp Staff was again headed by J. Holland Heck. Edward "Casey" Jones was back once more to serve as his Assistant and Program Director. James Fairful and Robert Meier were Commissary and Business Managers respectively. Lynn Ritchey was Waterfront Director assisted by Sandy McGinnes, Jon Boyer, and Tom Shock. At Campcraft was Kenneth Pence with Tom Orcutt, Jerry Shaw, Bill Givler and Wayne Brown. Norman Kaucher was Conservation Director; Arza Elder, Handicraft Director and David Paulovich in charge of the Trading Post. Other Staff members included David Morris, David Hess, Dan Mauger, Joe Goss, John Burton, Wayne Jenkins, James Crothers and Richard Moran. Pete Tobiessen of Berwyn Troop 11 was new to the Camp Staff this year as was Fred Berkheiser of Coatesville and Wayne Brown of Colora, Maryland. Among the Staff members was Dick Wyttenback of Devon.

The Camp Echo provides an insight into Camp activities that year. There was a Pioneers and Indian Game; a midweek campfire which was led by Ernie Heegard, undoubtedly, with some lively songs and tall tales; an Indoor Field Meet in Kindness Center; and, the Saturday night Campfire Indian Pageant put on by the Order of the Arrow. The Pageant this week was "Colena and the Going Up Ceremony."

However, the main event of the week, as it had been for many years, was the "TURTLE DERBY!" Our friendly Box and Painted turtles were collected each week by campers. There were all varieties...spotted ones, a turtle with only three legs and ones with special markings. On Saturday evening after supper, the big event would take place on the Parade Field where a ring was drawn to mark the course. Once the turtles were released in the center of the ring, the campers would hoot and holler for their favorite to win. Upon completion of the event, the turtles were released for campers of another week to find and race. For many young campers, it was the highlight of their week in camp to have a winner.

1958 saw the opening of the Council's new Explorer Base from which special expeditions for older Scouts were developed. Director of the Base was Ernie Heegard who would commute between both the Base and Horseshoe.

Reflecting on the Explorer Base of which he was Director, Ernie Heegard comments in 1994:

"The Base was much more than a canoe base. We had hiking trips and other assorted expeditions. The Base, however, was self-defeating because there was just so much that could be done with limited acilities and resources. Scouts would enjoy the first year there but did not return for other years as they do with the Camp Horseshoe programs.

The Council was recognized for its top Scouting Programs at the Region III meeting that year. Summer Camp attendance that summer reached 1,192 Scouts and Explorers representing 79 Troops. This placed the Council in the top six Councils in Region III. Also, the Council was honored for leading all councils in Region III with attendance at Philmont. Robert Bunting, who led our Explorer Program, was called upon at the Regional Meeting to describe how the Council promotes Philmont. The Council was further honored when our Council's Past President, J. Frederic Wiese, was re-elected Chairman of the Region.

The Council sponsored a U. S. Army Band Concert that fall to promote health and safety in the Council. There were 3000 people at that event which helped to raise funds for the Council's Scouting Programs.

A decision was made to spend Capital Funds being held for memorial purposes as requested by the Trustees of the E. H. Lawrence Estate. Upon satisfying the Trustees, funds were released for the construction of a lodge at the Explorer Base. It was named in memory of E. Hibberd Lawrence and has become known as Lawrence Lodge, an all purpose building. E. Hibberd Lawrence, after whom the Lodge was named, died in 1954. He had been a farmer on the Tudor Farm in Avondale. He had taken much interest in community affairs and undoubtedly had taken great interest in the work being done in the Council and by Chief Lester.

Also, work had commenced this fall on the two new winter lodges for Camp Horseshoe to complement the new Adirondack campsites that were opened in the past summer. They would be ready for service later in the year.

1959 Plans were being made for the Council's Golden Jubilee celebration of the start of Scouting in the United States with a special event being planned for 1960. The event was to be a Scout Show to be held at the Devon Horseshow and Fair Grounds in Devon. In the meantime, plans were made to have repairs made to Browning Memorial and McIlvaine Lodges at Camp. In addition, the Camp Construction Committee was requested to study and make recommendations on the installation of a fence around the Horseshoe pool. A rifle range was also proposed for Camp. All projects received the 'go ahead' from the Board.

Robert Bunting provided strong leadership in the Explorer Program in the Council. His committee established Explorer Cabinet Meetings on a District and Council level to bring together Explorer Post Presidents to plan their activities.

In other activities the best patrols from each of the Districts came together in the Council First Aid Meet. Judging for the event was handled by 60 students of West Chester State Teachers' College. A Commissioners Conference was planned for Camp Horseshoe and was led by Art McGinnes, Jr. Council Commissioner.

In 1959, the second Scouter in our 75 year history was recognized with the National Scout Council's top award, the Silver Buffalo. J. Frederic Wiese, Past President of the Council, holding both Silver Beaver and Silver Antelope awards, was cited for his years of service on all levels of Scouting by being presented with the Silver Buffalo award. In later years he would recall that he received this special honor on the same evening as Bob Hope, comedian. Mr. Wiese continued his active interest in both National and our Council affairs until his death in April 1994.

The decision had been made to hold the Annual Meeting and Dinner in May this year at Camp Horseshoe. Horseshoe was chosen due to the lack of size of other facilities. The highlight of the dinner was the awarding of the Silver Beaver by the Silver Beaver Committee's Chairman, "Ossie" Spellman. Three of our Council members were honored.

George H. Hopkins of Phoenixville was recognized for his Scouting service that began as a Scout in Troop 15, Phoenixville in 1931. He had served as a Scoutmaster of a Troop in New Jersey and then returned to Phoenixville to become Scoutmaster of his old Troop 15. He became Explorer Advisor for Post 15 in 1952 where he served until 1957. From 1956 to the present he had served as Assistant District Commissioner and Committeeman for Troop 73.

Isaac H. Whyte, Jr. who had become a Scout with Devon Troop 50 in its first year - 1927 - was the next to be honored. He was the Troop's first Eagle Scout and served as Troop 50's Assistant Scoutmaster and Scoutmaster alternatively from 1931 through 1958. He was Explorer Advisor of Troop 50 and had served as District Advancement Chairman since 1958. He had been on the Horseshoe Staff in his earlier Scouting years and was an Order of the Arrow member.

The third recipient was Norris Harlan Slack of West Chester. Harlan was the son of our first Council President, Norris B. Slack. Harlan served on the Troop Committee of Troop 14 of West Chester from 1932 to 1934. In 1941 he became District Finance Chairman and served in that position until 1948. He became Council Finance Vice President in 1948 and served until 1950. Since that time he served as a Council member-at-Large and Member of the Board of Directors. In 1952 he was named West Chester's outstanding citizen.

It was a special day for Scout Commissioner Art McGinnes, Jr. and his father, A. P. G. McGinnes, Sr. when Arthur "Sandy" P. G. McGinnes, III was recognized as one of the Council's twenty-four Eagle Scouts for 1958. This is believed to be a first for the Council.

Work had progressed on the new Rifle range at Horseshoe in 1959. Members of the Brandywine District devoted many hours at Camp working on that project. The new facility was called the "Norris B. Slack Memorial Rifle Range." A Range Officer had been assigned from Fort Meade, Maryland to be in charge that summer. Also, work had been approved to construct a roadway from Browning Lodge to the top of the hill past the Parade Field and Headquarters, running to the Picnic Grove and to connect with the road to the White House at the Dining Hall.

Although it had been agreed early in the year that the Council Executive would serve as the Camp Director, a later decision was made to turn that responsibility over to G. Ernest Heegard. He was the logical choice having been a camper since 1946 and thereafter serving each year in different Staff jobs until the present. He brought a high degree of energy and a knack of working with the other Staff members to form a sound team and an exciting program for the Scouts (and leaders). He also brought with him the perspective of the Scoutmaster; for he continued to serve as a Scoutmaster of Willistown Troop 78, a position he held until 1994.

Camp, that summer was the place to be, for it was decked out with its new buildings and a tremendous "Scouting Spirit." That year Pete Tobiessen was in charge of the Explorer Base with a number of Explorer Posts taking advantage of its high adventure type program offered in canoeing and special trips.

G. Ernest Heegard (Horseshoe camper and Staff 1946 - 1987 and Leader to present) comments on "Bottoms":

"Bottoms? Bottoms was a burro that we had at Camp in the 1950's. We would load him up with supplies to be taken over to the Explorer Base and then lead him down the back trail. Once we got to the Octoraro, Bottoms stopped dead in his tracks and would not cross the creek until he was relieved of his burden. When he was unloaded, we would ease through the water to the other side where we would have to repack him with the supplies.

The following summer Bottoms did not return to Camp much to the chagrin of some of the campers. After being asked on numerous occasions about Bottoms, we had to paint a sign and put it up at Headquarters saying that he had died. That seemed to stop the many questions."

At the fall Board Meeting, Explorer Scout Mark Knipe, Post 50 of Devon, was introduced. He gave a detailed and interesting report on his experiences at the Tenth World Jamboree held in the Philippine Islands. On another matter, Joseph H. Balthis was elected to the Scout Commissioner's position. He replaced Art McGinnes who had served since 1945 in that capacity.

Explorer Scout Jack Scott of Troop 78, Willistown, was honored this fall when Scout Executive Calvin Hall of the Wyoming Valley Council, Pennsylvania wrote to the Council calling attention to Scout Scott's act of life saving. Scott took immediate action at an accident scene by administering first aid to a baby resulting in the saving of its life. Both Explorer Scout Jack Scott and his Scoutmaster, Ernie Heegard, were recognized at the Council Board Meeting. Jack was presented with a special plaque for his actions by President Ware.

Plans were made for the Council's celebration of the Golden Jubilee of Scouting in the United States. The Scout Show Committee had been formed under the leadership of William Taylor with the emphasis on the Jubilee. In addition, our Scouts would celebrate the year with the National Jamboree to be held at Colorado Springs, Colorado. By year end, there were already 57 Scouts and seven leaders registered for it. Philmont registrations were also at a high level.

1960 The Primary emphasis heading into the Jubilee year of Scouting was the Scout Show to be held in Devon. Through the Commissioners' Staff led by Joseph H. Balthis, Troops across the County were encouraged to participate with various Scout projects and demonstrations. The troops sold tickets to the event which not only gave them money to support their troop programs but also benefited the Council. There was, of course, the National Jamboree in Colorado Springs whose theme was built around the 50th Anniversary and the " For God and Country" slogan. The site for the Jamboree was the property upon which the United States Air Force Academy would eventually be built.

In January, the top 20% of the patrols from the District First Aid Meets competed for top honors in the Council Meet. The winning patrol this year, from the Great Valley District, was a Willistown Troop 78 patrol.

Seth Pope was now Chairman of the Council Camping Committee. In February, he reported that plans were approved by Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Schlaanstine for the enlargement of the Camp Chapel with a dedication set for July at Camp. A plaque was erected at the start of the Chapel Trail to commemorate this work. Also announced was the plan to build an "all purpose" building at Horseshoe at the point of the road across from Kindness Center for weekend camping, Camp Commissioners, and other uses. This was later known as the "Campmaster's Lodge."

While in past years the Scout Executive or his Assistant would serve as Advisor to the Order of the Arrow Lodge, this year the Camping Committee announced that Harvey Rettew would serve in this capacity. Harvey was a veteran Scouter, joining in its early years. The Lodge Chief this year was Richard Moran. The Lodge continued its cheerful and important service to the Council by promoting Horseshoe attendance to all the Council's troops and by both helping to prepare Camp for its opening and closing.

President John H. Ware, 3rd recognized Robert Bean of the Minquas Trail District for his completion of Wood Badge training at Schiff. Also, Herbert F. Jewson was recognized for his completion of the "Key 3" training course at the Mendham, New Jersey Schiff Reservation. By the way, the "Key 3" reference applies to the top three leader positions in the Council or the District. The Council "Key 3" refers to the Council President, Commissioner and Scout Executive whereas on the District level it is the District Chairman, District Commissioner and the District Scout Executive.

The Annual Meeting and Dinner in 1960 was held in May at Camp Horseshoe. The Annual Report presented by President Ware showed that the 1959 Camp season had 1350 Scouts and 174 leaders attending. Philmont attendance continued strong with 72 boys and eight leaders going west the past summer. In addition, there were now 192 Troops, Posts and Cub Packs compared with 177 the prior year. There were 37 new Eagle Scouts recognized for their advancement. The Silver Beaver was presented to Kurt E. Findeisen, James H. Gawthrop, Jr. and William D. Taylor for their distinguished Scouting service.

Kurt Findeisin had been a Scout in Troop 4 of Spring City from 1929 to 1936. He then served that Troop as Assistant Scoutmaster until 1940. In 1940 he became Neighborhood Commissioner and continued to serve in this capacity. Kurt was an active member of the Order of the Arrow.

Jim Gawthrop had been a Scout at Horseshoe in 1941 and attained Life rank by 1946. He then became Assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 57, Kennett Square in 1947 and its Scoutmaster in 1950. From 1951 to this evening's presentation he was Scoutmaster of Kennett Square Troop 53. He was a Vigil member of the Order of the Arrow and had earned the Scouter's Key Award. For three National Jamborees, Jim had served as a troop leader. For the 1960 Jamboree, he was Scoutmaster for one of the Council's troops. He also served as a Lodge Lay Advisor to Octoraro Lodge 22. The citation read: "He is always willing to actively participate and lead in community projects. His personal interest and example have influenced many boys not only in his home area but over the County."

The third Silver Beaver was presented to William D. Taylor whose Scouting began on the Troop Committee of Troop 70 of Thorndale in 1953. He became District Vice Chairman and then Chairman in 1954. From 1954 to the present he was a member of the Council Board and this year was the Chairman of the Council Scout Fair. His community interests were extensive and he was a member of the Lukens Steel Company Management Council.

The Council Advancement Committee set guidelines for advancement at that time. They determined that the responsibility for rank advancement up to that of Life Scout was the responsibility of the individual troop committees. For Eagle Scout, however, the District Advancement Committee had responsibility for the Board of Review. This policy provided consistency for the Eagle advancement throughout the Council.

Camp Horseshoe, under the leadership of Ernie Heegard, was at capacity in the summer of 1960 as were both the Jamboree troops and the Philmont Scout Ranch expeditions. 1440 Scout Camper weeks were spent at Horseshoe this summer...a record!

In the fall, the Explorer Posts, many of whom were now coed, held a Coed weekend encampment at Horseshoe. This was a Council "first." Robert Bunting reported that the event was fun for all and very successful. The Explorers also had a Gettysburg Pilgrimage and Lehigh (University) Day.

The fall Order of the Arrow "Ordeal" weekend at Horseshoe was a success and so was a Council-wide "Get Out the Vote" campaign by troops. The latter event was strongly supported by the Commissioner staffs in each District. The Commissioner's Training Conference was held at Horseshoe this fall.

Hurricane "Donna" hit Camp that fall with vengeance! By the time the storm passed high water had damaged the roads and the bridges at Camp. Nearly $2000 worth of damage had occurred.

J. Gilmore "Duke" Wilson who continued to serve as Council Activities Chairman was recognized with his 50 Year Veteran award by President Ware. Also, the winner of the Council's "Little Lorillard Award" was announced. This award was patterned after the Lorillard Spencer Trophy Region III award to the council showing the most growth in specific areas such as membership, unit growth, etc.. The district's trophy requirements replicated that of the Region's. The Minquas Trail District was the winner.

Colonel Bole reported that plans were complete for the new Campmaster's Lodge at Camp. Mr. Pope announced that plans were made for 1961 to provide "Pioneer" type camping at the Explorer Base. Later this was identified by the name "Jambo-style" camping. This style camping opportunity was given troops who wanted to prepare their own meals in the campsite after being provisioned with food supplies by the Camp Staff similar to how provisioning is done at Jamborees.

Also, that year, the Council Trust Fund Agreement was formalized and accepted by the Board. This set up the repository for bequests and other major gifts to the Council. The "Boy Scout Trust Fund" was established with the First National Bank of West Chester as the Trustee. This type of Fund would become more important to the Council's fiscal health in future years when financing from other sources would dry up.

1961 Joseph Balthis took a strong lead in strengthening the Commissioner's Staff throughout the Council. The Neighborhood Commissioners were charged to visit the Boy Scout troops and Cub Packs as assigned. It was felt that with the help and counsel of the Commissioner, the unit could provide an improved Scouting Program in the unit. The Commissioner was in reality an emissary of the Council to aid and support the Scout organization on a local basis.

Roundtables were an effective way of communicating events in the Council to the Scoutmasters and Cub Pack leaders. Not only were the Roundtables a source of news but also an opportunity to gain ideas for better troop programs. Training for the Commissioners was held at Camp Rodney of the Delmarva Council.

The winner of the Little Lorillard Award for 1960 for meeting their goals was the Brandywine District.

In the spring of 1961, William D. Taylor was elected President of the Chester County Council. Mr. Taylor was Assistant to the Vice President of Administration of the Lukens Steel Company. He was a long-time Board member, serving as a Council Vice President, and in charge of the 1960 Scouting Fair. Dr. Joseph H. Balthis was re-elected Scout Commissioner.

Until that time there were three Scout Districts. Our Scout membership had reached 5386 boy members and 2301 Adult Scouters. Projections made by Art McGinnes' Long Range Planning Committee indicated a need to plan for future membership growth in 1965, 1970 and 1980. With an anticipated growth in members to 9000 by 1970, serious consideration would have to be given for additional Camp and office facilities, and leadership, both volunteer and professional. Plans were subsequently announced in a press release that the Council was planning to reorganize into five Districts and would hire an additional District Scout Executive in the fall.

In addition to the recommended reorganization that the three Districts become five, to be aligned with Community Chest and United Fund areas, school areas, shopping and social trends, Scouting loyalties, etc., specific recommendations were set forth by the Long Range Planning Committee to expand the camping facilities at the Explorer Base. Here, it was recommended to expand the number of "campsites to five by 1965; and to nine by 1970, reaching a peak load and minimum need for 12 units by 1980." The other part of the plan suggested a third camping facility be considered for early in the 1980's.

It was also proposed that consideration be given to increase the Service Center facilities and floor space in the near future. A capital fund drive was also recommended to begin in the next several years to fund such an expansion.

Kenneth Evans, the new Activities Committee Chairman announced that the fall Council Jamborette was planned for Valley Forge Park. By the spring, Camp Horseshoe Troop reservations indicated we were at capacity. In addition, the Explorer Base had 12 of the 28 weeks available committed for Troop camping. A Campmaster Program was announced to assist in summer camp this summer.

In June, the Council's Annual Meeting and Dinner were again held at Camp Horseshoe. Here were presented the Annual Report and the recommendations of the Long Range Planning Committee. Eagle Scouts were saluted for their high achievement and Silver Beaver awards were made to H. Allison Fosnocht, Kenneth E. Evans and Leon W. Brown, Sr.

Camp Horseshoe had nearly 1200 Scouts in attendance in 1961. The Jambo style camping at the Explorer Base this year proved to be well received. The Camping Committee was anticipating an even higher attendance in 1962.

The threat of an atomic disaster was on the minds of many people in Chester County and America during that period. Mr. E. A. Pennington and Mr. George Browning of Civil Defense Intelligence attended our September Board Meeting and put on a presentation and discussion of the need for emergency education and protective facilities relative to an atomic disaster. They sought the Council's cooperation by having Civil Defense literature, including Bomb Fallout Shelters and first aid information, disseminated through the Scout organization to the communities; and, to put on civil defense demonstrations via Scout Troops and Explorer Posts. Our members agreed to take action on these matters in the near future.

The Jamborette that fall took place at Valley Forge. The theme was built around the Scout "Fair" concept. Ed Burghart was Chairman and Jim Dukovic was the Staff Advisor. While the event was successful, it was supported by only 60% of our troops. A survey was made to determine why some Troops chose not to attend. According to Commissioner Balthis, there was interest in a Council Camporee being held in 1962 , however it was agreed that it would emphasize Patrol and Troop Scout Skills.

Two Philmont Expeditions were planned for 1962. The Council Philmont Committee Chairman this year was Richard T. Schulze. In addition, there was a plan made to send an Explorer contingent of 24 - 36 members to the Region 10 Charles Sommers Canoe Base, near Ely, Minnesota in the coming summer. The Committee planning this venture included Chairman David Stoddard, Mercer Sloan, John Ferguson, Ernie Heegard and Robert Marquette, as Advisor.

Edgar 'Gumps' McComsey, Coatesville Troop 74, and Herb Warner, Brandywine Troop 51 were leaders on the High Adventure trip to the Charles Sommers Canoe Base. In 1994, 'Gumps' looks back on what he terms a great experience - "a trip and a half!" He comments:

"The Scout Camp was located right on the lake. We divided into three crews...mine chose to spend their time on the trip fishing. Other crews chose to go for distance. In all, we covered about 120 miles. The crew was a great...we had a great time...the boys in one canoe would start singing to the tune of 'If I Had a Hammer' but with different words like 'If I had a motor, etc.' We camped on islands each day and had some portaging to do so I had to make sure the Scout who was Quartermaster did not load up on heavy food items. We even enjoyed fish pancakes! We were on the lake for eight days. I was really impressed with the boys in my crew...we had a great time!"

Dr. Seth Pope, Camping Committee Chairman, sought Board approval of naming the Explorer Base, Camp Jubilee. This name had been chosen because that style camping began in 1960, the Golden Jubilee Anniversary year of Scouting. The Board gave its blessing. Approval was also given to improve the facilities at Jubilee by adding two new campsites, acquiring canoes, rowboats and patrol tables.

Work that winter was progressing on the West Chester by-pass that traversed a section of the property the Council held east of West Chester. This property was important to our future plans.

Council President Taylor instituted a series of "Fireside Chats" in 1961 with key members of each District attending. These were informal meetings to convey the Council's aims and to gain a sense of Scouting in the local communities.

Council Commissioner Balthis announced that Certificates of Heroism by the National Court of Honor were awarded to William and Richard Green of Kennett Square Troop 12 for their heroic effort in a life saving ice rescue. The Scouts were honored at the District First Aid Meet. As in the past years, the District First Aid Meets were extremely well attended by 50 to 60 patrols in most of the Districts.

In a departure from recognizing Eagle Scouts at the Annual Board Meeting and Dinner, it was decided to have a special Eagle Scout Recognition dinner in their honor during the February Scout Anniversary month. Fridjof Tobiessen made plans to hold the first of these dinners in 1962.

The Order of the Arrow had set their goals on various Camp projects for the coming year. Plans were made to put a new roof on the Trading Post, new floors in the Stockade buildings and to heavily promote attendance at our camps.

1962 In reviewing the Board's Minutes for this year, it is interesting to note that a number of our Board Members had rendered exceptional service for many years. In particular, Richard F Warren, A. P. G. McGinnes, Sr., A. P. G. McGinnes, Jr. and John H. Ware, 3rd were loyal members with service starting in the early 1930's and 1940's. Mr. Warren came on in the 1920's and was continuing an active role. Relatively new members active on the Board were Herbert F. Jewson, Robert Gawthrop and Raymond F. Schlaanstine.

The Eagle Scout Banquet during Scout Week was a success. Each of the Eagles had a sponsor in the career interest of the Scout. Each of the Eagle Scouts were recognized for their high achievement as their names were entered in the Book of Eagles.

The proposal of the Long Range Planning Committee to realign the Council's organization to five Districts was implemented in 1962. The Council had five Districts prior to a 1955 realignment to the current three. Now, for greater efficiency in handling the membership growth, it was decided to return to the five District set-up. The north part of the Great Valley District adopted the name French Creek with John McCoy as Chairman; the southern portion became the Conestoga District with Ed Burghart as Chairman. The Minquas Trail District, with Allen E. Lawrence as Chairman, chose its former names - Lenni-Lenape and Octoraro; and, the Brandywine District under the leadership of RichardHolleran, retained that name. The District Chairmen were active at this time both on their District level and that of the Council.

The repairs to the Stockade cabin floors and the re-roofing of the Trading Post were accomplished that spring by the Order of the Arrow. Troop 13 of Oxford, both Scouts and leaders, provided a valuable "Good Turn" for Camp Horseshoe by refurbishing the interior of the Health Lodge while the Order of the Arrow re-roofed the building. The electric line and roadwork for Camp Jubilee were also slated for completion during the year. A 59.9 acre piece of property adjacent to Camp became available and the Board decided to purchase it in order to secure the isolation of Camp.

The Annual Council Meeting occurred in April at which time Council officers were elected and the Annual Report submitted. In June, the Annual recognition Dinner was held at the Sons of Italy Hall in Kennett Square as a more central location for all. The Dinner recognized the fine work of nearly 2400 volunteers we had in the Council at that point. These men and women served 5635 Scouts in Cub, Boy Scout and Explorer programs.

Order of Merit awards for service in the District this past year were presented to Brandywine District members J. Edward McComsey of Troop 74 of Coatesville; Harry A. Murvin of the District Committee; Carl Welsh of Pack 8 of Hopewell and Doris L. McWilliams of Coatesville Pack 38. French Creek recipients were Albert P. Fegley of Phoenixville Troop 15 and Mervyn H. Piersol, Sr., Assistant District Commissioner for Roundtable. The Minquas Trail awardees were J. Walker Brown of Kennett Square Troop 60, Horace S. Finnefrock of Troop 102 in Rock Springs, Maryland, Stewart T. Fowler Roundtable Commissioner and Paul W. Morgan of Troop 43 of West Chester. In the Conestoga District awardees were Paul Clark of Paoli Troop 1, Carolyn McEuen of Frazer Pack 76 and John R. Wells of Devon Troop 45.

Following a special presentation by Colonel Clifton Lisle, the Council's first Silver Beaver honoree of 1930, presentations were made to this year's Scouters for distinctive service to Scouting. Walter C. Burkey, Allen E. Lawrence and John E. Siddal, Jr. were that year's Silver Beaver recipients.

Walter Burkey had started in Scouting in 1919 as a Scout in Malvern Troop 1 (now Troop 7). An Eagle Scout, he served as Scoutmaster of Troop 7 from 1926 to 1936 and then on the Committee from 1936 to 1943. From 1946 to the present, he had served on the Committee of Troop 78 and Explorer Post 78. His Scouting service includes many District jobs and Council Philmont Chairman for 1959. He was a Vigil Honor member of Octoraro Lodge 22 and a Charter member of the Lodge.

Allen Lawrence's Scouting began in the Delmarva Council and led to his being Scoutmaster there from 1931 to 1939. From 1948 to 1952, he served on the Troop 31 Committee in Chadds Ford. He had been an Institutional Representative, the Assistant District Commissioner and most recently was District Chairman from 1959 to present.

Ed Siddal began Scouting in 1926 in Horsham. He became Scoutmaster of Frazer Troop 76 in 1939 and served in that capacity until 1952. He then served as Committeeman for that Troop and as a Neighborhood Commissioner from 1952 to 1960. Currently, he was serving as Assistant District Commissioner. He was a member of the Order of the Arrow.

Camp Horseshoe had another record breaking year along with Camp Jubilee. While both Horseshoe and Jubilee were so-called 7-Day camps (Sunday to Sunday camp period) this year, the decision was made to have Jubilee go to a 6 Day plan with the camp week ending on Saturday. It was decided that for the next season fees would be increased to $21 per Scout at Horseshoe and $16 at Jubilee.

A Council Commissioners' Conference was held at Devon Troop 50's cabin at Camp Jarvis that fall. Dr. Balthis reported on a good turn-out with the conference emphasizing Exploring. Over the past few years a weakness had developed in that program. John C. Bole was involved in the Explorer Program in 1962, working to develop Explorer Cabinets on District levels.

Jim Gawthrop, who took an active role in the Octoraro Lodge and was a Deputy Lodge Lay Advisor, in 1962 formed the Vigil Honor Fellowship. The purpose of the Fellowship was to stimulate active participation in the Order of the Arrow by its senior members and to have a program of activities which would retain interest in the Lodge. It had its own leadership elected annually. Activities included service projects for Camp, Cape May fellowship weekends and get-togethers to welcome newly selected members for the Vigil.

Regretfully, the Board accepted the resignation of Jim Dukovic, Assistant Scout Executive. He was moving on to be Scout Executive of the Appalachian Trail Council, Pottsville. (Note: look for Jim to come back to Chester County later!)

Our Nation stood still in November this year to reflect on the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and the circumstances surrounding this tragedy. All mourned the death of this dynamic and youthful leader. It would be hard for the country to recover from the shock of this event.

Many successful activities had taken place in 1962. A great Council Camporee was held, the Order of the Arrow continued to provide excellent service to the Council and the Horseshoe Scout Reservation, Philmont and the Region 10 Canoe Base offered outstanding experiences for our Scouts and leaders. The re-alignment of the Districts had created a more manageable organization with the increased number of Scout units and members across the County.

1963 By the end of 1962 our membership had climbed to nearly 6000 Scouts and the number of Troops, Cub Packs and Explorer units neared 200.

There were 72 Eagle Scouts and sponsors who attended the Eagle Scout Recognition Dinner in February. Mr. Warren H. Pope, President of the Malvern National Bank, was the keynote speaker at the dinner that also celebrated Scout Anniversary week.

Planning for a number of events took place early in the year. The Scout Exposition at the Devon Fair Grounds was well into the planning stages, under the Chairmanship of Ken Evans. Over 75 booths had been signed for by various troops. Council Commissioner Joseph Balthis reported that the Commissioners would serve as judges for the Scout Exposition and were also planning a spring Training Conference at Camp Chiquetan in Lancaster County. Work was underway to take crews to the Philmont and Region 10 Canoe Bases again in the summer of 1963. An Explorer Coed Dance was held with 90 in attendance that winter.

Newly involved at this time were individuals who would play key roles in our future. Raymond Schlaanstine was now Camping Committee Chairman and John C. Bole was the Council Explorer Advisor. New to the Board was Philip Simmons and Walter MacLaughlin, serving as Lenni-Lenape District Chairman. Later in the year, Raymond Lemmon joined the Board along with Charles H. Moore, Jr..

In April our Annual Meeting took place at which time Warren H. Pope was elected Council President. Kenneth E. Evans was elected Scout Commissioner. William Taylor continued as Vice President and H. Allison Fosnocht was Council Treasurer. At this meeting a Service Center Study Committee was created to consider what plans should be taken to expand our facility. The decision was to expand the High Street office or acquire new quarters. Chairman of the Committee was H. Harlan Slack, Sr. Committee members included Robert Gawthrop, Edward Price and Rueben Uhler.

John H. Ware, Jr. passed away that spring. The Council conveyed condolences to the family in a Resolution of Regret that included a retrospective of his Scouting involvement and our Council's gratitude for his 39 years of service to Scouting.

The Scout Exposition was successful in every respect this May. Held at the Devon Fair Grounds, the troops had booths showing Scouting action from cooking demonstrations...to knot tying..to pioneering projects, etc. All reflecting the best Scouting offers in skills and service. It was estimated the event drew 35000 people in the two-day period. This was a credit not only to the Council but to the volunteers who took a strong role in making it a showcase event for Scouting.

The Annual Recognition Dinner was held. Silver Beaver awards were given to Richard L. "Link" Rice and Robert S. Gawthrop, Jr. for their distinctive and extensive service to Scouting.

Link had been a member of Troop 27 of Willistown from 1925 to 1932. He was one of the original campers at Horseshoe when it opened. In 1932, he served as Assistant Scoutmaster of Willistown Troop 27 which was then sponsored by American Legion Post #646. That Troop later became Willistown 78 which was sponsored by VFW Post #5203. Link became its Scoutmaster from 1944 to 1951. From 1951 to 1953 he was Assistant Scoutmaster of Coatesville Troop 38 while remaining Committeeman in his former Troop. He also served as Post 78 Explorer Advisor and from 1962 to the present on the Troop 78 Committee. He was also serving on the Council Camping Committee. He was a Vigil Honor member of Octoraro Lodge 22.

Bob Gawthrop served on the Council Board from 1953 to the present. He was Legal Counsel for the Council. Prior to this Bob had an extensive Scouting background in the Council. He was a Scout from 1926 to 1931 in West Chester Troop 21. He then served from 1941 to 1953 as a member of the Troop and Post 21 Committee. He was also a member of the Lenni-Lenape District Commissioner Staff from 1940 to 1947.

Summer Camp for the troops provided excellent support for their advancement programs. It was apparent that much of a troop's merit badge work was accomplished at Horseshoe where emphasis was given to the aquatics, nature and campcraft badges. The instruction provided by the Camp Staff was unequaled as a result of the fine preparation done by Camp Director Ernie Heegard. The quality of the program was directly related to the camp leadership.

Frank Rodgers came to Camp Horseshoe as a leader in Troop 114 of Devon in 1963. Each year since that time he returned to spend time in camp whether it was as a leader or in his involvement with the Order of the Arrow and the Vigil Honor. While there are many stories he could tell of his days in camp, what has impressed him has been the adult leaders with whom he has been associated over the years and the role they have played in the development of the character of the young people and the shaping of their lives. In 1994 he relates:

"People such as Troop 114 Scoutmaster Harry Weber and Council Junior Leader Training Scoutmaster Charlie Bradford had the unique ability to know and understand the boys they dealt with...their likes and dislikes and understood the way they thought...they knew how to motivate the boys to achieve their full potential. Ernie Heegard was such a person. When he was Camp Director, Ernie would make the rounds of camp several times a day....tough to keep up with him. However, if a Scout would call out 'Ernie!' ... Ernie would promptly stop and give that boy his complete and undivided attention. He set a great example for us as leaders and for the Scouts!"

Consideration was being given to conducting another Capital Fund Drive in 1963 to meet the needs of the Camp and Council related to the Long Range Plans earlier accepted. Ketchum, Inc., who had helped in the prior Camp Expansion Fund program, was under consideration once more. A special meeting was held in June to make a survey of major camp facility needs at both Horseshoe and Jubilee. Held at Camp, the members of the committee under the leadership of Raymond Schlaanstine were President Pope, Camp Director Ernie Heegard, Richard "Link" Rice, George Hopkins, Philip Howse of Brandywine District, Clarence Parker of Conestoga, Harry Murvin and John Harley of the Brandywine District and Scout Executive Don Simpson.

The results of that meeting set forth the following recommendations that were later presented to the Board:

Camp Horseshoe -

- a well to supplement present water supply;

- Camp Storage building and maintenance shop;

- Camp Ranger's Home - on Scout Camp area at entrance for more efficient year-round control;

Jubilee Camp -

- Swimming Pool with central shower facilities;

- Camp Ranger's Home;

- Administrative building;

- Storage and Maintenance building;

- Three additional Troop tent campsites, with latrines, etc.

And, construction of a connecting road between Scout Camp and Jubilee (via the old Conestoga wagon road) with a "low water" bridge spanning the Octoraro Creek.

A pre-campaign survey conducted by Ketchum indicated that there was an excellent opportunity for the Capital Campaign to be successful. Ketchum was later hired for the Campaign.

Later in the summer, the recommendations for the Council Service Center were presented. In essence, it was recommended that we not expand the current facility but sell it and use the proceeds along with money from the Capital Campaign to erect a new Center. The Council's approximately six acres of property on the southwest corner of Concord Road and adjacent the West Chester by-pass ( the Taylor Property acquired earlier via Troop 10 and deeded to the Council ) was proposed as the site for the new Center. At this point, the basic plans had been set and further action would be forthcoming.

Meanwhile all indications were positive for our Scouting Programs. Horseshoe and Jubilee attendance again showed an increase. This year Camp attendance was up over 6% from the prior year. The Council was in the 11th place in Region III in camping attendance. Religious Committees had been established. Richard Holleran was Chairman for the Catholic Committee and Phil Simmons was Chairman for the Protestant Committee. They saw to the spiritual needs of the Scouts. The committee provided religious services at the Order of the Arrow fall weekend and the Lenni-Lenape District Camporee.

1964 As we entered the new year of Scouting much was on the table for the Council. This year was the National Jamboree which was again being held in Valley Forge. It also a critical year for the Council to fund the various projects at each of our camps. Ken Evans, Council Commissioner, was completing a "Program of Emphasis" analysis of all the units in the Council with the aid of his Commissioner's Staff.

Arthur E. Bone, President of Ugite Gas Company of Malvern was introduced to the Board by President Pope. He had agreed to serve as the General Chairman of the Capital Campaign. In his talk to the February Board meeting, Mr. Bone was enthusiastic about Scouting and his coming mission. Mr. Pope also introduced Region III representatives Paul Hafer, Executive member, and Irwin Scullin, Deputy Regional Scout Executive. They congratulated the Board and the Council for their accomplishments. At that meeting, Mr. Pope announced that Charles E. Swope had accepted the Chairmanship of the Council's Trust Fund Promotion Committee. Mr. Swope was an Eagle Scout and had served on the Horseshoe Camp Staff twenty years earlier.

Ray Schlaanstine announced that the plans were being prepared for the new Swimming Pool for Jubilee and recommended that construction be started as soon as the Board approved the plans and the money was secured. However, it was felt that the project would not be finished for the approaching camping season.

Among other items that spring, the Philmont Expedition was well on its way to being filled up and we had recruited nearly two and a half troops for the Valley Forge Jamboree. The Scouts in the Council were also participating in a project for the Chester County Historical Society to clean many historical monuments around the County.

Religious awards were earned by several of our Scouters this year. James Walsh, Scoutmaster of Phoenixville Troop 58, received the St. George Award at the Arch Diocese meeting in Philadelphia. Harry C. Weber, Jr., Scoutmaster of Devon Troop 114, was awarded a Lutheran Scholarship for training at Philmont.

Several dinners were held to recognize the achievements of our Scouts and leaders. The Eagle Scout Recognition Dinner was held later this year at the Old Mill Inn. It again saw our new Eagles honored with their sponsors. Our Annual Scouter Recognition Dinner was held in June. Singing was led by Ernie Heegard, on this occasion, following an impressive dinner. Charles Thayer, Council Training Chairman, presented Wood Badge beads, woggle and neckerchief to those who had completed the Course. W.C. "Tom" Sawyer of the Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge addressed the attendees on "The Challenge of Leadership". Robert S. Gawthrop, Silver Beaver Committee Chairman, then was called upon to present the Silver Beaver awards.

Harvey E. Rettew, whose Scouting began in Rothesville, Pennsylvania as a boy, was our first honoree. He had served Scouting in other councils before coming to Chester County. In 1954, Harvey became Scoutmaster of West Chester Troop 43 and was still serving the Troop. He had served in a number of different capacities - Order of the Arrow Advisor to Octoraro Lodge 22, Jamboree Scoutmaster and in numerous other roles.

C. Mercer Sloan was also recognized as a long time Scouter in Chester County. He had been at Camp Horseshoe when it opened in 1928 as a camper from West Grove Troop 30 and later served on the Camp Staff. He is an Eagle Scout from 1932. He had been on the Pack 30 Committee, Commissioner in District 5, Advisor to Sea Scout Ship 30 and the Scoutmaster of Troop 30 since 1946. A number of the boys he had in the Troop entered professional Scouting.

Charles B. Thayer was recognized for his Scouting work as a Committeeman with Kennett Square Troop 24 starting in 1946; then, serving as District Training Chairman, District Commissioner and then Chairman of the Council's Leadership and Training Committee since 1959. Since 1962 he was a Board member.

The fourth recipient of the Silver Beaver was James R. Tinsman whose Scouting began at the time the Council was chartered in 1919. He had been a Scout in Downingtown Troop 2. He had served as Commissioner in District 2 from 1941 to 1945. He had been a Committeeman on Paoli Troop 81's Committee and then served as its Scoutmaster until 1959. Since 1959, he was Scoutmaster of Paoli Troop 100 sponsored by the Church of the Good Samaritan. That Church had at one time started Paoli Troop 1. Mr. Tinsman was active at First Aid and numerous District events in his long association with the Council.

Camp Horseshoe and Camp Jubilee were again filled with campers. Our attendance was over the 1600 mark with 65 Troops being represented. In addition, the campers were spending added camping weeks at both sites. Both camps received high marks at the Regional inspection.

The Sixth National Jamboree in Valley Forge was again a great Scouting event! In spite of the work of the Army Corps of Engineers to lay permanent water and other utility lines in the Park, this would be the last time for it to be held there. The traffic congestion made it very difficult for the visitors to go through the park to see the troops and it was difficult to control people going in and out of the site. Films taken of the Jamboree showed that almost all roads in Montgomery, Delaware and Chester Counties were affected by the overload. In spite of this, our troops had a successful adventure.

The Camp Building Campaign under Art Bone's leadership went over its $250,000 goal this fall. He was given a standing vote of appreciation by the Board members. Mr. Supplee, who had been Finance Chairman resigned to serve on the Trust Fund Committee. Mr. Bone accepted the Finance Chairman's job.

Plans were well along to build the Camp Jubilee pool to be ready by the 1965 season. The well was being dug at Jubilee and work was commencing on other projects. In addition, to meet the demands being placed on Scout Executive Simpson and his professional staff members, it was decided to expand the staff to support and train the large number of volunteers in the Council.

The Council Explorer Cabinet Advisor was newly elected Board member, William H. Mitman. He called upon Explorer Scout Wesley Perkins, Post 50 of Devon, to speak of the happenings at the National Explorer Conference and respond to the Board questions about Regional and National Meetings and Exploring in general. Exploring continued its active role in the Council with most Posts active in the area of camping and special activities.

The Explorer Cabinet had met this winter to elect its officers and their delegate to the Regional conference to be held at the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis. Also, they were actively planning spring activities which included a Willow Grove Amusement Park "Red Tag " day similar to that of the past year's.

The year ended on a high note. Ray Schlaanstine announced that our Horseshoe and Jubilee attendance was again tops. We were one of 85 Councils in America with more than 50% or better of their Scouts in summer camp!

1965 January saw Gordon Lang join the professional Staff as the District Executive for the Conestoga District. The duties of the District Executive included recruiting volunteers for the District Committee jobs, working with that Committee to see that the Scouting programs were delivered to the individual Boy Scout, Cub and Explorer units in the District and to work in developing new opportunities for boys in Scouting by obtaining institutions to sponsor new Scout units. The Scout unit (Pack, Troop or Post) is looked upon as the youth program for an institution such as a Church, School and Home Association or other type of community organization. Essentially the District was a microcosm of the Council organization.

The Conestoga District was reported to have almost all of its Commissioner's Staff recruited. Work with the Upper Main Line Ministerial Association was progressing to create a Scout Troop for the mentally and physically handicapped in the Wayne to Exton area. With Gordon Lang's guidance Scouting was brought not only to this group of boys but also established or revitalized for those in the Royer Greaves School for the Blind in Paoli as well in the Devereaux School.

Camping during the period from October to May at Camp Horseshoe continued to be popular for all troops. The relatively new Rothrock and Roberts Lodges complemented the Browning and McIlvaine winter lodges. And, yes, many of our hardy Scouts enjoyed the Adirondack shelters at Camp in spite of sub-freezing weather! Ray Schlaanstine reported that all sites were taken for the entire winter camping season.

Thanks to the efforts of Phil Simmons and Richard Holleran, many Scouts were giving service to their respective Church organizations and taking advantage of the religious Scouting awards programs. Many churches were planning to present God and Country awards during Scout Sunday services in February. In addition, the Chester County Council of Churches agreed to make available to the Scout Council radio time on Station WCOJ during Boy Scout Week. Raymond Lemmon received our Board's congratulations on his "St. George" Catholic Church recognition for outstanding, long time service to boyhood, church and community.

Bids were accepted for the construction of the Jubilee Pool. At the February Board Meeting the Viking Aquetech Pools, Inc. company of King of Prussia was selected to build the pool for a maximum cost of $39000. Other work at Jubilee was authorized that spring. Also at the meeting, the Board had as its guest Scout David Castetter of Hephzibah Troop 42 who was a recent winner of the "Freedoms Foundation Nathan Hale Essay Award." The award was presented to Scout Castetter by Council President Pope.

Thirty-nine Eagle Scouts of the previous year were honored at the Old Mill Inn with the Eagle Recognition Dinner. Each had a prominent individual in his area of vocational interest who brought him to the dinner.

At the Annual Business Meeting in April, Raymond Schlaanstine of West Chester was elected the New Council President. He was a retired executive of the Hercules Powder Company and had joined the Board in 1965. He had served as the Camping Committee Chairman and had been Chairman of the Advance Phase of the successful Capital Fund Campaign. Vice Chairman elected were Joseph H. Balthis of Mendenhall, Arthur E. Bone of Paoli and Arthur P. G. McGinnes, Jr. of Berwyn.

Plans were progressing on the new Scout Service Center building to be constructed on South Concord Road near the by-pass. John H. Ware, 3rd was heavily involved with the project that spring. Construction expenses were $81,000 and the job given to Leonard Pevar Company of Kennett Square. Architect for the building was Fridjof Tobiessen and Associates.

The Annual Scouter Recognition Dinner in June was well attended. The Silver Beaver presentation again was the high point of the evening. Three Scouters were honored for their exceptional service to youth in the Council.

Albert T. Brawn was cited for his Scouting service that reached back to the 1925 to 1930 period when he was a Scout in Berwyn Troop 11. He was Assistant Scoutmaster of that Troop from 1930 to 1935. Then Scoutmaster from 1935 to 1948. He served as a Neighborhood Commissioner from 1937 to 1945. He was on the Troop 11 Committee from 1948 to 1953. He had been on the Camp Horseshoe Staff and had led the first group of Scouts to the Philmont Scout Ranch on an informal basis and then was a Philmont Advisor in 1964. He was awarded the District Order of Merit in 1962. From 1962 to the present he served as Assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 113 in Berwyn. He had been Chief of the Octoraro Lodge 22 and was a Vigil Honor member. He also served on a number of different District committees.

G. Ernest Heegard was recognized for his Scouting service. He had been a Cub Scout in Pack 78 in Willistown. In 1944 he joined Willistown Troop 78 where he was a Scout until 1950. In 1950 to 1952 he was a member of Post 78. Then in 1952 he became Assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 78 and in 1956 became its Scoutmaster (until 1994 when he retired). He served in almost every capacity of the Staff at Camp Horseshoe and had never missed a summer, even during his stint at Millersville State College and while in the Military Service. He had been Director of the Exploring Base, now Jubilee, in 1958 and Camp Horseshoe Director since 1959. He also was on the Council Camping Committee from 1963 to the present. An Eagle Scout, he was a Vigil Honor member of the Order of the Arrow and served as the first youth Octoraro Lodge Chief in 1954.

William C. Jones, Jr. was the third recipient of the Silver Beaver and cited for his fine contribution to Scouting in Chester County. He had been Explorer Advisor to Post 70 of Thorndale from 1953 to 1959. In 1959 he became Scoutmaster of Thorndale Troop 70 until 1965. In 1959 he was a Philmont Advisor and a Council Jamboree leader in 1960 to the National Jamboree in Colorado Springs. In 1962 he was Council Canoe expedition leader and had won the Brandywine District Merit Award that same year. He was an active OA Lodge member.

Explorers were active that year. Their Willow Grove Park Red Tag day was a success as 1580 Explorers, friends and Scouts attended. In addition, special Explorer rallies were held in the Council. A number of Posts conducted rafting trips on the Pine Creek in the "Grand Canyon" of Pennsylvania, trips to the U.S. Naval Academy and camping trips to various state parks in Delaware and Pennsylvania.

Camp Horseshoe under Ernie Heegard's leadership, was one of the a highlights of the Scouting year for the boys in our Council. A special day was held at Horseshoe for all Webelos Cub Scouts in July. This gave them an opportunity to see first hand what fun was in store for them upon joining Boy Scouts.

Among the Staff traditions at Camp Horseshoe was the "Staff Will." The document was produced on the final day while the Staff was closing down the Camp, before their Staff Banquet and their return to "civilization." One gets a sense of the spirit of the Staff by reading these wills. That year we note that Bill Givler was a Provisional leader along with Ray Carr. They were "willed" a supply of buddy tags for their Scouts who 'swim' up the trail from Taylor and a longer rest period." Bob Lull, Dave Riskette and Steve Bell were the Nature Staff and their will was directed more at the animals..."To the snakes we leave our sympathy." Among the Program Staff mentioned were George Gruss, Ron Walter, and Steve Kurash. Larry Marshall and Frank DiMarzio at Handicraft were willed "more hot water for the showers and a years supply of mice and other friendly animals." Mark Gruss was at Campcraft that summer and at headquarters was John Souder and Mickey Givler. To Ernie Heegard that summer "we leavea new song list...a front row seat for such activities as well drilling, bleacher building, pump fixing, etc.."

At Camp Jubilee in the summer of 1965, the Staff included Dick Bellis, George Tay, Jerry Bruce, Mike Kelly, Jim Tay, Jim Getz and Dave Sell. Jambo-style camping was popular among the troops who attended Jubilee and they formed a close alliance with that style camping.

Mr. Donald Givler, President of Grocery Products Company was a newly-elected member of the Council's Board. He was heading the Organization and Extension (Membership) Committee. He took steps to follow up on Region III's recommendation to enhance our Programs for Cub Scouts.

As the year was winding down, the Public Relations Committee Chairman Walter MacLaughlin reported that the local newspapers were cooperating in our efforts to bring Scouting news to people in the County particularly during the forthcoming Scout Week. Mr. Finney had done a fine job over the past years in laying the groundwork for this valuable support of local media with respect to the Scouting Program in the County.

1966 That January, Scout Executive Don Simpson announced that ground was broken for the new Camp Ranger's home at Camp Jubilee. Don Givler reported that our membership had reached nearly 6650 Scouts and 193 total units this past December. Scouting in the Council was reaching nearly 32% of available youth. Also announced was the decision of the Camping and Training Committees to have the Council's Wood Badge Scouters plan and conduct a Council-wide Junior Leaders Training and Conservation Course at Jubilee in 1966 under the leadership of Frank Peterson.

Allen Lawrence, Chairman for the Activities Committee, had been working on the Historic Trails medal program in the Council. He expected that the Brandywine Battlefield area would be ready for the Scouts to take advantage of the Trail created there for the Medal.

In May, the new Council service Center was ready to be occupied. Also that month, Don Simpson informed the Board that he had been given an opportunity to move on to the National Scout Staff. President Schlaanstine formed a search committee headed by Past President William D. Taylor to handle the selection of a new Executive.

On June 2nd, the formal dedication of the Service Center was made. The Center was dedicated to the memory of Mr. and Mrs. John H. Ware, Jr. The Council now had a facility which could serve the various Scouting committees, for training purposes and for Order of the Arrow activities. The Annual Scouter Recognition Dinner followed the dedication ceremonies. Richard G. Lull, Raymond Schlaanstine and Edward K. Sowden, Jr. were the Silver Beaver recipients to be recognized at the Dinner.

Dick Lull was a Scouter from Troop 76 in Frazer and had given service on both the District and Council levels. Ray Schlaanstine was President of the Council and had worked in fund raising efforts in the Council. Ed Sowden had served as a leader of the Royer Graves School for the Blind, Troop 103. Here, he had organized Scouting programs for the blind boys including hikes with "beeper" devices to keep them on the trail and many other activities. He helped many of the blind boys succeed in their personal advancement over the years. He had also given valuable service on both the District and Council level.

Colonel Clifton Lisle passed away in the summer of 1966. He had given many years of top service to the Council. He had provided exceptional leadership to his Paoli Troop 1 over the years. His name had become synonymous with the finest that Scouting offered. The work that he did in the Council in its formative years, served to set the pace for Chester County Council.

In the previous nine years, our Council had witnessed its greatest growth. We had dealt with it in good fashion by continuing the work that Chief Lester and our Board had done with the Camp Expansion Fund that saw new campsites and winter lodges at Camp Horseshoe and the building of new campsites for the Explorer Base. The objectives of our Long Range Planning Committee had resulted in a second expansion of our camping facilities with a successful capital campaign that provided funds to build a new pool and new Service Center. We had gone through the celebration of Scouting's Golden Jubilee Anniversary and had adopted from that celebration the name of our new camping facilities...Jubilee Camp.