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To get to Camp Bonnie Brae, most of the campers traveled 20 miles on a trolley from Springfield, then would ride on the camp truck the other 15 miles to East Otis. Camp Bonnie Brae was the first camp to use the 'buddy system'. In 1919 the schedule was as follows: At 6:00 am you were woken up. Exercises followed at 6:15 am, then you would go swimming in the lake at 6:30 am. Breakfast was at 7:00 am. To get to Camp Bonnie Brae, most of the campers traveled 20 miles on a trolley from Springfield, then would ride on the camp truck the other 15 miles to East Otis. Camp Bonnie Brae was the first camp to use the 'buddy system'. In 1919 the schedule was as follows: At 6:00 am you were woken up. Exercises followed at 6:15 am, then you would go swimming in the lake at 6:30 am. Breakfast was at 7:00 am.

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The program included nature study, sports and an overnight hike. No silk stockings or high-heels allowed! Uniform was a middy blouse and bloomers. The second year schedule remains as today: wake-up at 7:00 am. Swimming in the lake used to be early in the morning, but now it is saved for later in the day. The camp had 6 buildings: A main house, shed, farm house, barn and wonder house. In 1920, the mortgage was paid. In January 1925, the camp bought an unknown number of acres for $716.00. Traditional activities included Native american studies, dance, first aide, butterfly study, bugling, swimming, bird study, forestry, volley ball, obstacle golf, canoeing, signaling, and life-saving. Other work included astronomy, boating, child care, nursing, house-keeping, hiking, pioneering, and public health. The stated purpose of the camp experience was to provide a cheerful friend to every girl scout, to celebrate with campfires and singing, to learn responsibility by seeing through kapers without shirking or complaining, but by sharing and having fun; to respect nature with appreciation and utilize nature without harm, to be helpful and courteous and to have both old and new friends. The program included nature study, sports and an overnight hike. No silk stockings or high-heels allowed! Uniform was a middy blouse and bloomers. The second year schedule remains as today: wake-up at 7:00 am. Swimming in the lake used to be early in the morning, but now it is saved for later in the day. The camp had 6 buildings: A main house, shed, farm house, barn and wonder house. In 1920, the mortgage was paid. In January 1925, the camp bought an unknown number of acres for $716.00. Traditional activities included Native american studies, dance, first aide, butterfly study, bugling, swimming, bird study, forestry, volley ball, obstacle golf, canoeing, signaling, and life-saving. Other work included astronomy, boating, child care, nursing, house-keeping, hiking, pioneering, and public health. The stated purpose of the camp experience was to provide a cheerful friend to every girl scout, to celebrate with campfires and singing, to learn responsibility by seeing through kapers without shirking or complaining, but by sharing and having fun; to respect nature with appreciation and utilize nature without harm, to be helpful and courteous and to have both old and new friends.
'''Historical Note'''''<ref name="fivecolleges" /> '''Historical Note'''''<ref name="fivecolleges" />
{{quote|Camp Bonnie Brae, located in East Otis, Massachusetts, is the oldest continuously operating Girl Scout camp in the United States. Begun in 1919, the camp is administered by the Girl Scouts of Pioneer Valley in East Longmeadow, Massachusetts. The original building was an inn, also called Bonnie Brae, and was owned by Loring P. Lane. Edith Sinnett, first director of the Springfield Girl Scouts, and her friend, Edith G. Newell, wished to see the organization establish a summer camp, and in the summer of 1919 they rented Bonnie Brae from the Lane family and gave public notice that Girl Scouts could apply to attend. The fee was five dollars per week. The program for summer included nature study, as well as tennis, basketball, baseball, and volleyball.” “A bugler and a cook were hired for the summer, and two dietitians from Boston planned the menus for the camp. The success of the 1919 camp season made certain the continuation of the project, so accordingly the Girl Scout Council bought the 227 acres of land, the building, and the furniture from Mr. Lane for $10,000. Counselors served on a volunteer basis, and came from various occupations around the Springfield area. The camp maintained a 1:7 staff to camper ratio. In 1921, several troops of the Springfield Council donated money for scholarships so that girls who lacked the fees could attend. The camp has always accommodated persons of all races, creeds, and economic backgrounds. Also in 1921, the waterfront program at Camp Bonnie Brae was reorganized by an instructor from the American Red Cross. The campers were divided into three groups according to their swimming skills, and great emphasis was placed on graduating from one group to the next. The system of water buddies as a means of keep track of swimmers was instituted at Camp Bonnie Brae, the first camp in the country to do so. To enable Bonnie Brae to accommodate older girls, and to offer a better program for younger scouts, property was purchased a half-mile from Bonnie Brae and a Brownie Camp established there in 1941. Also in 1941, the Second Western Hemisphere Encampment wsa held at Camp Bonnie Brae. Girls from fourteen countries and from all over the United States attended. The guest of honor was Eleanor Roosevelt, and during her visit she spoke with the girls about democracy, proper nutrition, the bases of a post-war peace, and international cooperation. The camp has expanded its facilities over the years to include more campers and offer more activities. As of 2007, the summer program accommodated 140 girls from around the country and the world. There are also non-residential programs offered in spring, fall and winter.}} {{quote|Camp Bonnie Brae, located in East Otis, Massachusetts, is the oldest continuously operating Girl Scout camp in the United States. Begun in 1919, the camp is administered by the Girl Scouts of Pioneer Valley in East Longmeadow, Massachusetts. The original building was an inn, also called Bonnie Brae, and was owned by Loring P. Lane. Edith Sinnett, first director of the Springfield Girl Scouts, and her friend, Edith G. Newell, wished to see the organization establish a summer camp, and in the summer of 1919 they rented Bonnie Brae from the Lane family and gave public notice that Girl Scouts could apply to attend. The fee was five dollars per week. The program for summer included nature study, as well as tennis, basketball, baseball, and volleyball.” “A bugler and a cook were hired for the summer, and two dietitians from Boston planned the menus for the camp. The success of the 1919 camp season made certain the continuation of the project, so accordingly the Girl Scout Council bought the 227 acres of land, the building, and the furniture from Mr. Lane for $10,000. Counselors served on a volunteer basis, and came from various occupations around the Springfield area. The camp maintained a 1:7 staff to camper ratio. In 1921, several troops of the Springfield Council donated money for scholarships so that girls who lacked the fees could attend. The camp has always accommodated persons of all races, creeds, and economic backgrounds. Also in 1921, the waterfront program at Camp Bonnie Brae was reorganized by an instructor from the American Red Cross. The campers were divided into three groups according to their swimming skills, and great emphasis was placed on graduating from one group to the next. The system of water buddies as a means of keep track of swimmers was instituted at Camp Bonnie Brae, the first camp in the country to do so. To enable Bonnie Brae to accommodate older girls, and to offer a better program for younger scouts, property was purchased a half-mile from Bonnie Brae and a Brownie Camp established there in 1941. Also in 1941, the Second Western Hemisphere Encampment wsa held at Camp Bonnie Brae. Girls from fourteen countries and from all over the United States attended. The guest of honor was Eleanor Roosevelt, and during her visit she spoke with the girls about democracy, proper nutrition, the bases of a post-war peace, and international cooperation. The camp has expanded its facilities over the years to include more campers and offer more activities. As of 2007, the summer program accommodated 140 girls from around the country and the world. There are also non-residential programs offered in spring, fall and winter.}}
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==Scouting in Massachusetts today== ==Scouting in Massachusetts today==
*Girl Scouts of the United States of America has three councils in Massachusetts. * Girl Scouts of the United States of America has three councils in Massachusetts.
*Boy Scouts of America has ten regional ] in Massachusetts. * Boy Scouts of America has ten regional ] in Massachusetts.


Full details for the regional councils are below. Full details for the regional councils are below.
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The is a local council of the Boy Scouts of America headquartered in ]. It is one of the few small councils remaining in the area. Camp Norse is the sole camp of the council. The council is divided into the following districts: The is a local council of the Boy Scouts of America headquartered in ]. It is one of the few small councils remaining in the area. Camp Norse is the sole camp of the council. The council is divided into the following districts:
*Angle Tree District * Angle Tree District
*Sachem District * Sachem District
'''Order of the Arrow'''&nbsp;– Tulpe Lodge '''Order of the Arrow'''&nbsp;– Tulpe Lodge


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] ]
The serves the greater Boston area. It has four camps: Camp Sayre, in the Blue Hills, Camp Massasoit in ], T.L. Storer Scout Reservation in ], and Parker Mountain Scout Camp in ]. The council is divided into the following districts: The serves the greater Boston area. It has four camps: Camp Sayre, in the Blue Hills, Camp Massasoit in ], T.L. Storer Scout Reservation in ], and Parker Mountain Scout Camp in ]. The council is divided into the following districts:
* (includes the communities of ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], and ]) * (includes the communities of ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], and ])
* (includes the communities of ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ] and ]) * (includes the communities of ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ] and ])
* (includes the communities of ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ]) * (includes the communities of ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ])


'''Formation''' '''Formation'''


1993 - The Boston Minuteman Council #227 was formed from the merger of: 1993 - The Boston Minuteman Council #227 was formed from the merger of:
*Minuteman Council #240 (Stoneham, 1959–1993) * Minuteman Council #240 (Stoneham, 1959–1993)
*Greater Boston Council #227 (Boston, 1980–1993) * Greater Boston Council #227 (Boston, 1980–1993)
*The Cambridge Council #229 (Cambridge, 1919–2001) and their Kahagon Order of the Arrow Lodge #131 were merged into the Boston Minuteman Council in 2001. * The Cambridge Council #229 (Cambridge, 1919–2001) and their Kahagon Order of the Arrow Lodge #131 were merged into the Boston Minuteman Council in 2001.


1959 - The Minuteman Council (Stoneham, 1959–1993) was formed from a merger of: 1959 - The Minuteman Council (Stoneham, 1959–1993) was formed from a merger of:
*Sachem Council #223 (Lexington, 1926–1959) * Sachem Council #223 (Lexington, 1926–1959)
*Fellsland Council #242 (Winchester, 1932–1959) * Fellsland Council #242 (Winchester, 1932–1959)
*Quannopowitt Council #240 (Malden, 1993-1959) * Quannopowitt Council #240 (Malden, 1993-1959)


'''Order of the Arrow'''&nbsp;– '''Order of the Arrow'''&nbsp;–


Moswetuset Lodge is named for the hill in Quincy. Moswetuset Lodge is named for the hill in Quincy.




===Cape Cod and the Islands Council=== ===Cape Cod and the Islands Council===
The serves ], ], and ]. as well as are the councils camps. The council is divided into the following districts: The serves ], ], and ]. as well as are the councils camps. The council is divided into the following districts:
*Lower Cape District * Lower Cape District
*Martha's Vineyard District * Martha's Vineyard District
*Nantucket District * Nantucket District
*Upper Cape District * Upper Cape District


'''Order of the Arrow'''&nbsp;– Abake Mi-Sa-Na-Ki Lodge '''Order of the Arrow'''&nbsp;– Abake Mi-Sa-Na-Ki Lodge
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===Knox Trail Council=== ===Knox Trail Council===
is the result of the consolidation of the Norumbega and Algonquin Councils in 1996. It serves the Greater MetroWest area of Eastern Massachusetts. It has two camping properties: The E. Paul Robsham Scout Reservation&nbsp;— in ] (Camp Resolute), and the Nobscot Scout Reservation&nbsp;— in ]/]. The council is divided into the following districts: is the result of the consolidation of the Norumbega and Algonquin Councils in 1996. It serves the Greater MetroWest area of Eastern Massachusetts. It has two camping properties: The E. Paul Robsham Scout Reservation&nbsp;— in ] (Camp Resolute), and the Nobscot Scout Reservation&nbsp;— in ]/]. The council is divided into the following districts:
* (], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ]) * (], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ])
* (], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ]) * (], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ])
* (Newton, Wellesley, Weston) * (Newton, Wellesley, Weston)
'''Order of the Arrow'''&nbsp;– Chippanyonk Lodge '''Order of the Arrow'''&nbsp;– Chippanyonk Lodge


===Mohegan Council=== ===Mohegan Council===
serves Central Massachusetts. Treasure Valley is its summer camp. The council is divided into the following districts: serves Central Massachusetts. Treasure Valley is its summer camp. The council is divided into the following districts:
*Quinsigamond District * Quinsigamond District
*Hassanamisco District * Hassanamisco District
*Massasoit District * Massasoit District
'''Order of the Arrow'''&nbsp;– Pachachaug Lodge '''Order of the Arrow'''&nbsp;– Pachachaug Lodge


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{{Main|Scouting in Rhode Island}} {{Main|Scouting in Rhode Island}}
Narragansett Council is based in Rhode Island, but has 3 service areas that serve communities in Massachusetts: Narragansett Council is based in Rhode Island, but has 3 service areas that serve communities in Massachusetts:
*Southeast Service Area * Southeast Service Area
*Southwest Service Area * Southwest Service Area
*Northwest Service Area * Northwest Service Area


====Massasoit District==== ====Massasoit District====
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In 2001, another merger was announced. Moby Dick Council, which by contemporary standards at its inception was of decent size, had become archaic. It was considered in their best interest to dissolve and merge with another council, and they did so, merging with Rhode Island's ]. The new council, which kept the Narragansett name, kept the Massasoit and Cachalot district designations, and also continues to operate Camp Cachalot. In 2001, another merger was announced. Moby Dick Council, which by contemporary standards at its inception was of decent size, had become archaic. It was considered in their best interest to dissolve and merge with another council, and they did so, merging with Rhode Island's ]. The new council, which kept the Narragansett name, kept the Massasoit and Cachalot district designations, and also continues to operate Camp Cachalot.


*Quequatuck District * Quequatuck District
*Shawomet District * Shawomet District
*Skeleton Valley District * Skeleton Valley District
*Thundermist District * Thundermist District


===Nashua Valley Council=== ===Nashua Valley Council===
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===Old Colony Council=== ===Old Colony Council===

]
{{Main|Old Colony Council}} {{Main|Old Colony Council}}
'''Old Colony Council''' based at ] serves southeastern Massachusetts. '''Old Colony Council''' based at ] serves southeastern Massachusetts.
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The Western Massachusetts Council is divided into four districts: The Western Massachusetts Council is divided into four districts:
*Appalachian Trail District * Appalachian Trail District
*Metacomet District * Metacomet District
*General Knox District * General Knox District
*Chapweq District * Chapweq District


'''Order of the Arrow'''&nbsp;– The of the Western Massachusetts Council was formed by the merger of Memsochet Lodge 507 (Great Trails Council) and Allogagan Lodge 83 (Pioneer Valley Council)<ref>http://www.pocumtuc.org/flaps.htm</ref> on September 28, 2008. '''Order of the Arrow'''&nbsp;– The of the Western Massachusetts Council was formed by the merger of Memsochet Lodge 507 (Great Trails Council) and Allogagan Lodge 83 (Pioneer Valley Council)<ref>http://www.pocumtuc.org/flaps.htm</ref> on September 28, 2008.


===Yankee Clipper Council=== ===Yankee Clipper Council===

]
{{Main|Yankee Clipper Council}} {{Main|Yankee Clipper Council}}
'''Yankee Clipper Council''' was formed from a merger of the North Essex Council, North Bay Council, and Lone Tree Council in 1993. The The Yankee Clipper Council is in 52 communities in Northeastern Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire. '''Yankee Clipper Council''' was formed from a merger of the North Essex Council, North Bay Council, and Lone Tree Council in 1993. The The Yankee Clipper Council is in 52 communities in Northeastern Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire.
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Camps Camps
*Bonnie Brae, ] * Bonnie Brae, ]
*Green Eyrie, ] * Green Eyrie, ]
*Kinnebrook, ] * Kinnebrook, ]
*Laurel Wood, ] * Laurel Wood, ]
*Lewis Perkins, ] * Lewis Perkins, ]
*Marion White, ] * Marion White, ]
*Neyati, ] * Neyati, ]


===Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts=== ===Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts===
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Service Centers Service Centers
*] * ]
*] * ]
*] * ]


Camps Camps
*Camp Maude Eaton, ] * Camp Maude Eaton, ]
*Camp Winnetaska, ] * Camp Winnetaska, ]
*Camp Virginia, ] * Camp Virginia, ]
*Camp Favorite, ] Available activities include sailing and accommodations are usually platform tents. * Camp Favorite, ] Available activities include sailing and accommodations are usually platform tents.
*Camp Rice Moody, ] * Camp Rice Moody, ]
*Camp Wabasso, ] * Camp Wabasso, ]
*Camp Menotomy, ] * Camp Menotomy, ]
*Camp Runels, ] * Camp Runels, ]
*Camp Wind-in-the-Pines, ] * Camp Wind-in-the-Pines, ]
*Camp Edith Read, ] * Camp Edith Read, ]
*Camp Cedar Hill, ] * Camp Cedar Hill, ]
*Friendship House, ] * Friendship House, ]
*Greenbrier Girl Scout Center, ] * Greenbrier Girl Scout Center, ]
*Wampanoag Girl Scout Center (Chilmark), ] * Wampanoag Girl Scout Center (Chilmark), ]
*Taupawshas Girl Scout Center, ] * Taupawshas Girl Scout Center, ]
*Edith Read Girl Scout Center, ] * Edith Read Girl Scout Center, ]
*Wind-in-the-Pines Girl Scout Center, ] * Wind-in-the-Pines Girl Scout Center, ]
*The Center, ] * The Center, ]
*Cedar Hill Program Center, ] * Cedar Hill Program Center, ]


===Girl Scouts of Rhode Island=== ===Girl Scouts of Rhode Island===
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==Scouting museums== ==Scouting museums==
*] ] * ] ]
* Girl Scout Museum, Leeds Service Center, Leeds, Massachusetts * Girl Scout Museum, Leeds Service Center, Leeds, Massachusetts


==See also== ==See also==
{{Portal|Scouting}} {{Portal|Scouting}}
*] * ]
*] * ]


==References== ==References==
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==External links== ==External links==
{{commons category}} {{commons category}}
* *
* *
* Last Will and Testament of George W. P. Magee, June 25, 1938 * Last Will and Testament of George W. P. Magee, June 25, 1938
* George W. Magee Memorial Trust Fund (2004). ''60 Years of Scouting Support: The George W. Magee Memorial Trust Fund'', 2004. * George W. Magee Memorial Trust Fund (2004). ''60 Years of Scouting Support: The George W. Magee Memorial Trust Fund'', 2004.
* *
* *
* *
* *
* *
* *
* from ] '']'' * from ] '']''
* *
* *
* , Radcliffe Institute, Harvard University. * , Radcliffe Institute, Harvard University.


{{Scouting in the United States}} {{Scouting in the United States}}

Revision as of 19:41, 5 June 2013

Scouting in Massachusetts
Boy Scouts World Wars memorialBoy Scouts World Wars memorialScouts at Fenway ParkScouts at Fenway Park Betty Ford with Girl ScoutsBetty Ford with Girl ScoutsCambridge plaqueCambridge plaque
 Scouting portal


Scouting in Massachusetts includes both Girl Scout and Boy Scout organizations. Both were founded in the 1910s in Massachusetts. With a vigorous history, both organizations actively serve thousands of youth in programs that suit the environment in which they live.

Early history (1910-1950)

Camp Bonnie Brae Early History: 1919-1950's Founding of Camp Bonnie Brae The history of Girl Scouts in Central & Western Massachusetts began in 1916 when local councils were formed in Massachusetts. Just one year later, there were nearly 800 girl scouts in Massachusetts, with councils from Boston to Springfield. To fulfill the mission of Juliette Low for all girls to experience a healthy lifestyle including nature study and outdoor activities, this council searched for a location appropriate for a camp. This begins the history of Camp Bonnie Brae.

The founders were Miss Edith Sinnett and Mrs Edith G. Newell. Unlike other organizations, the Girl Scouts have always been run completely by women. Unlike any other organizations, Girl Scouts have always had women in every position, top to bottom. The SGS set the vision of the camp experience as follows: “The girls will always be cheerful, a friend to every Girl Scout, they will enjoy camp fires and singing; they will be responsible by doing their tasks without shirking or complaining, by sharing and having fun. They also will respect nature, appreciate and utilize without harming it. They also will be courteous to old and new friends.”

In 1911, William T. and Margaret L. Dakin sold their property to the Springfield Girl Scout Council (SGS) On March 12, 1914, William Dakin gave more land. In December 1915, the SGS bought several pieces of land for $1.00 each. In November 1916, they bought a piece of land for $7,000. Another large buy was in May 1917 for $2,500. And Margaret Dakin sold 143.2 acres of land for $10.00. She also reserved the island in the center of the pond (Big Pond) for herself. During the year of 1919, the Springfield Girl Scouts established “a committee to look into the matter of summer camp.” In the same year, they choose the camp at East Otis after “microscopical examinations.”

To get to Camp Bonnie Brae, most of the campers traveled 20 miles on a trolley from Springfield, then would ride on the camp truck the other 15 miles to East Otis. Camp Bonnie Brae was the first camp to use the 'buddy system'. In 1919 the schedule was as follows: At 6:00 am you were woken up. Exercises followed at 6:15 am, then you would go swimming in the lake at 6:30 am. Breakfast was at 7:00 am.


The program included nature study, sports and an overnight hike. No silk stockings or high-heels allowed! Uniform was a middy blouse and bloomers. The second year schedule remains as today: wake-up at 7:00 am. Swimming in the lake used to be early in the morning, but now it is saved for later in the day. The camp had 6 buildings: A main house, shed, farm house, barn and wonder house. In 1920, the mortgage was paid. In January 1925, the camp bought an unknown number of acres for $716.00. Traditional activities included Native american studies, dance, first aide, butterfly study, bugling, swimming, bird study, forestry, volley ball, obstacle golf, canoeing, signaling, and life-saving. Other work included astronomy, boating, child care, nursing, house-keeping, hiking, pioneering, and public health. The stated purpose of the camp experience was to provide a cheerful friend to every girl scout, to celebrate with campfires and singing, to learn responsibility by seeing through kapers without shirking or complaining, but by sharing and having fun; to respect nature with appreciation and utilize nature without harm, to be helpful and courteous and to have both old and new friends.

Historical Note

Camp Bonnie Brae, located in East Otis, Massachusetts, is the oldest continuously operating Girl Scout camp in the United States. Begun in 1919, the camp is administered by the Girl Scouts of Pioneer Valley in East Longmeadow, Massachusetts. The original building was an inn, also called Bonnie Brae, and was owned by Loring P. Lane. Edith Sinnett, first director of the Springfield Girl Scouts, and her friend, Edith G. Newell, wished to see the organization establish a summer camp, and in the summer of 1919 they rented Bonnie Brae from the Lane family and gave public notice that Girl Scouts could apply to attend. The fee was five dollars per week. The program for summer included nature study, as well as tennis, basketball, baseball, and volleyball.” “A bugler and a cook were hired for the summer, and two dietitians from Boston planned the menus for the camp. The success of the 1919 camp season made certain the continuation of the project, so accordingly the Girl Scout Council bought the 227 acres of land, the building, and the furniture from Mr. Lane for $10,000. Counselors served on a volunteer basis, and came from various occupations around the Springfield area. The camp maintained a 1:7 staff to camper ratio. In 1921, several troops of the Springfield Council donated money for scholarships so that girls who lacked the fees could attend. The camp has always accommodated persons of all races, creeds, and economic backgrounds. Also in 1921, the waterfront program at Camp Bonnie Brae was reorganized by an instructor from the American Red Cross. The campers were divided into three groups according to their swimming skills, and great emphasis was placed on graduating from one group to the next. The system of water buddies as a means of keep track of swimmers was instituted at Camp Bonnie Brae, the first camp in the country to do so. To enable Bonnie Brae to accommodate older girls, and to offer a better program for younger scouts, property was purchased a half-mile from Bonnie Brae and a Brownie Camp established there in 1941. Also in 1941, the Second Western Hemisphere Encampment wsa held at Camp Bonnie Brae. Girls from fourteen countries and from all over the United States attended. The guest of honor was Eleanor Roosevelt, and during her visit she spoke with the girls about democracy, proper nutrition, the bases of a post-war peace, and international cooperation. The camp has expanded its facilities over the years to include more campers and offer more activities. As of 2007, the summer program accommodated 140 girls from around the country and the world. There are also non-residential programs offered in spring, fall and winter.

Camp Bonnie Brae Evolves

In 1920 the Girl Scout rankings were: Tender Foot, Second Class, First Class, Corporal and Patrol Leader. In the 1920's Camp Bonnie Brae had Bonnie Brae Echoes, a newspaper. It cost 5 cents. A feast known as the Nature's Bouquet was the closing feature of the camp season, which was a great success. In 1921, some of the tents were substituted by cabins for the younger girls. Sunday worship happened at camp, and scholarships were established. During the year of 1922, the girls were taught to make their beds. If you went in the summer of 1923, you would have been taught how to weave on a loom. There were more athletics, and a Trail's End club for older girls. In 1924 and 25, the camp got electricity, and an archery program was developed. Sherwood, Camelot and the Jungle units were established. By 1926, the girl scout council system of self-government was recognized nationally. In 1927, Camp Bonnie Brae was run by the Massachusetts Girl Scouts. There were 800 campers that season. In 1929, the Romani Patrin 'gypsy' unit was formed. As time went by, the end of program ceremonies became an important tradition in which girls created a skit, decorations, formations, poems and songs that were sung and played on instruments. Music and creativity continue to be an traditional component of girl scout camping.

During the year of 1930, the councilor training unit began. The girls there lived in white army tents. By 1930, many of the tents were replaced by cabins for the younger campers. This year, they had fewer campers (402) but they were still open the full 8 weeks. The rankings changed over the years. In 1931 it went from Brownies to Tawny Owl to Brown Owl to Girl Scout, Lieutenant and Captain. In 1933, the camp store held emblems, cards, stamps, flashlight batteries, bathing caps, films, knives, ink, kotex, ties, notebooks, belts, toothpaste, stationary, pins, and many other useful items. In 1935, Anchorage officially became a unit. There were 389 campers that year. In 1937, Miss Sinnett begins to develop a long range plans to meet the needs of both the younger and older girls at camp. The dining hall began to fail, and new construction began in 1938. Also in 1938, the boating program was instated which continued into 1956. A totem pole was built, and the girls would sing around it. Two other Girl Scout camps formed near Bonnie Brae, one called Dyerbrook and the other was Edith Sinnett; these were day camps for younger girls.

In July 1940 the camp got electricity from the Pittsfield Electric Company, most of the structures were built and a new artesian well was dug. The fee was $5.00 per week. A new unit, Enchanted Forest, was established, with its own base a mile hike from the camp. There were 397 campers that year. In 1941 the state granted the Peck Lumber Company access to the forests; this company logged 200 acres (the lumbering continued until 1962). Eleanor Roosevelt came and toured the camp this season, telling girls to “develop a seeing eye and an inquiring mind”, and she placed the camp on the International Girl Scout Camp list. During the 2nd Western Hemisphere Encampment in the same year, scouts from across the United States and more than 14 other countries exchanged recipes, camping ideas, customs and costumes. After her visit, Mrs. Roosevelt penned a special essay for her column “My Day”.

In 1945, there were 485 campers. A year later, the camp had a horse program from John Simpson of Hartford, with 6 horses, a truck and some grain and hay that cost $760. In 1948, the campers went on lots of biking trips. A camp improvement was the installation of an infirmary, which was dedicated with a special program. Included in the Infirmary dedication August 15, 1948 is the philosophical statement that "Loyalty and honor go hand in hand. One of these without the other would fade and our inner qualities would loose their fine touch, in many ways less tangible than games, these qualities are being put to practice when Girl Scouts honor foremost one's self, and then school, camp and ideas." In 1949, a new dishwashing system was developed with advice from the Cornell School of Home Economics. By this time, In the late 1940's, the original inn burned down and was replaced by a building called Big House. The Big House held the camp store, art area and offices.

During the year of 1950, the Enchanted Forest became a unit for the oldest regular campers. Other units included Tanglewood, Jungle, Camelot, Wahpeton, and Sherwood. The campers earned special camp letters and awards by doing activities and quests. Braids were established as the official camp hair-do, and if you did not behave, your supper would be destined to be prunes! Scouts would compete to see who would get the most clams out of Big pond. Since clams were only found in the deep end of the swimming area, you had to swim under the water and grab one. Their sport field program included: track, golf, tennis, basketball, volleyball and baseball. Even then, families were told not to send in radios with their campers. In 1953, there were 506 campers.

In the summer of 1955, the camp program included sail-boating, a brand new activity. Sailboats were purchased and were in use through 1956. This camp unit was Lochmar, a sailing unit for younger Girl Scouts. There were also Anchorage and Birnam Wood. Tyro was originally the counselor training unit, until Green Horizons took its place. Other continuing units were Sherwood, Viking Dalen and Enchanted Forest. The newspaper changed to The Bonnie Brae Bugle as well. Over time the Springfield Girl Scouts Became the Pioneer Valley Girl Scouts with Chicopee, Agawam, East Longmeadow, Longmeadow, Hampton, Monson, Wilberham, Palmer, Ware, Belchertown and Ludlow troops.

In 1960, the camp was run by the Pioneer Valley Girl Scout Council, Inc. Girls went on Quests and got special badges. Here is an example of a quest: 1. Find a spider's web. 2. Catch a fly and put it in the web. 3. Watch what the spider does, then tell about it. 4. Find which part of the web is sticky and which isn't. In 1968, the units changed back to age-based levels. In that year, Camp Bonnie Brae occupied 250 acres of land and had 120 campers. The oldest training unit is the counselor training unit.

Recent history (1950-2001)

Moby Dick Council

Moby Dick Council #245 was a Council of the Boy Scouts of America from 1972 to 2001.

Formation

The Moby Dick Council (also known as Moby Dick Council of Massachusetts and Rhode Island) was formed in 1972 by a merger of the Cachalot Council of Greater New Bedford and the Massasoit Council of Greater Fall River. The two former councils were small, and fell victim to the BSA's desire to create larger councils. In 2001, Moby Dick Council suffered a similar fate, and merged with the Narragansett Council of Rhode Island, much to the chagrin of many old-timers of both the smaller councils and the larger Moby Dick Council.

Camps

Moby Dick Council originally had two camps: Camp Cachalot was the camp for Cachalot Council, and Camp Noquochoke was the camp for Massasoit Council. Camp Noquochoke was sold due to its smaller size and fewer prospects, and later became a residential neighborhood. Camp Cachalot still remains as a weekend and summer resident camp owned and operated by the Narragansett Council.

Order of the Arrow

Moby Dick's OA Lodge was Neemat Lodge #124, which was formed by a combination of Agawam Lodge #509 and Noquochoke Lodge #124 in 1972. Neemat Lodge and Wincheck Lodge #524 merged in 2001 to form Abnaki Lodge.

Scouting in Massachusetts today

  • Girl Scouts of the United States of America has three councils in Massachusetts.
  • Boy Scouts of America has ten regional councils in Massachusetts.

Full details for the regional councils are below.

Boy Scout Councils in Massachusetts

Annawon Council

File:Annawon Council CSP.png
Annawon Council

The Annawon Council is a local council of the Boy Scouts of America headquartered in Norton, Massachusetts. It is one of the few small councils remaining in the area. Camp Norse is the sole camp of the council. The council is divided into the following districts:

  • Angle Tree District
  • Sachem District

Order of the Arrow – Tulpe Lodge

Boston Minuteman Council

File:Boston Minuteman Council CSP.png
Boston Minuteman Council

The Boston Minuteman Council serves the greater Boston area. It has four camps: Camp Sayre, in the Blue Hills, Camp Massasoit in Plymouth, T.L. Storer Scout Reservation in Barnstead, New Hampshire, and Parker Mountain Scout Camp in Strafford, New Hampshire. The council is divided into the following districts:

Formation

1993 - The Boston Minuteman Council #227 was formed from the merger of:

  • Minuteman Council #240 (Stoneham, 1959–1993)
  • Greater Boston Council #227 (Boston, 1980–1993)
  • The Cambridge Council #229 (Cambridge, 1919–2001) and their Kahagon Order of the Arrow Lodge #131 were merged into the Boston Minuteman Council in 2001.

1959 - The Minuteman Council (Stoneham, 1959–1993) was formed from a merger of:

  • Sachem Council #223 (Lexington, 1926–1959)
  • Fellsland Council #242 (Winchester, 1932–1959)
  • Quannopowitt Council #240 (Malden, 1993-1959)

Order of the Arrow – Moswetuset Lodge

Moswetuset Lodge is named for the hill in Quincy.

Cape Cod and the Islands Council

The Cape Cod and the Islands Council serves Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket. Greenough Scout Reservation as well as Camp Richard are the councils camps. The council is divided into the following districts:

  • Lower Cape District
  • Martha's Vineyard District
  • Nantucket District
  • Upper Cape District

Order of the Arrow – Abake Mi-Sa-Na-Ki Lodge

File:Knox Trail Council CSP.png
Knox Trail Council

Knox Trail Council

Knox Trail Council is the result of the consolidation of the Norumbega and Algonquin Councils in 1996. It serves the Greater MetroWest area of Eastern Massachusetts. It has two camping properties: The E. Paul Robsham Scout Reservation — in Bolton (Camp Resolute), and the Nobscot Scout Reservation — in Framingham/Sudbury. The council is divided into the following districts:

Order of the Arrow – Chippanyonk Lodge

Mohegan Council

Mohegan Council serves Central Massachusetts. Treasure Valley is its summer camp. The council is divided into the following districts:

  • Quinsigamond District
  • Hassanamisco District
  • Massasoit District

Order of the Arrow – Pachachaug Lodge

Narragansett Council

Main article: Scouting in Rhode Island

Narragansett Council is based in Rhode Island, but has 3 service areas that serve communities in Massachusetts:

  • Southeast Service Area
  • Southwest Service Area
  • Northwest Service Area

Massasoit District

The Massasoit District is a subdivision of the Narragansett Council of the Boy Scouts of America.

History

The Fall River Council rechartered as the Massasoit Council. It was headquartered in Fall River, Massachusetts and served that city and the surrounding communities of Somerset, Swansea, Westport, Tiverton and Little Compton. The Wampanoag District served Somerset and Swansea. The Council Office was located in the Women's Union Building on Rock Street. The Massasoit Council existed until 1972.

The primary source for Boy Scout uniforms and gear was McWhirr's department store on South Main Street in Fall River. Many Council-wide Scouting events were often held at Lincoln Park in Westport, Massachusetts. The Firestone Rubber Company, which had a large factory in Fall River, sponsored the Firestone Award for outstanding Boy Scouts in the Massasoit Council in the 1950s and 1960s. These recognition events were held at White's in Westport.

Camping for the Fall River Council began in 1917 at Camp Stanford in Fall River and provided an outlet for boys for four years. It was decided in 1921 at a Fall River Council Executive Board meeting that the purchase of a 100-acre (0.4 km) wooded area would take place, naming it Camp Noquochoke. Additional land was purchased in Camp Noquochoke’s later years covering over 110 acres (0.4 km) on the eastern shore of the Westport River in Westport. Camp site facilities ranged from undeveloped, to tent sites with platforms, to A-frames ("Adirondacks") to cabins with stoves and bunk beds.

The physical facilities were significantly improved in the late 1950s with a new dining hall (constructed by Fall River (Building) Trades Council with site work provided by the Navy SeabeesReservists) and an in-ground pool. The Navy Seabee Reservists did upgrade the camp road from the entrance on Pine Hill Road to its termination by the former or old dining hall ending at the river's bluff. The Seabees also did the site work for the new dining hall, dugout the archery range and may have partially or completely built the rifle range on the newly acquired Donovan property. This work done by the Seabees was part of their community service, especially non-profit agencies.

Camp legend, the basis for many campfire stories, was a character named "Three-fingered Willie." Camp Noquochoke continued to serve area youth until 1980.

Smaller councils began to be consolidated, which led to Massasoit Council merging with the Cachalot Council to form the Moby Dick Council with the two former councils becoming districts. Moby Dick Council maintained the Cachalot Council's office in New Bedford. Massasoit's Camp Noquochoke was sold, and Cachalot's Camp Cachalot remained with the new council.

Massasoit Council's Noquochoke Lodge 124 of the Order of the Arrow merged with Cachalot Council's Agawam Lodge 509 to form Neemat Lodge 124.

In 2001, another merger was announced. Moby Dick Council, which by contemporary standards at its inception was of decent size, had become archaic. It was considered in their best interest to dissolve and merge with another council, and they did so, merging with Rhode Island's Narragansett Council. The new council, which kept the Narragansett name, kept the Massasoit and Cachalot district designations, and also continues to operate Camp Cachalot.

  • Quequatuck District
  • Shawomet District
  • Skeleton Valley District
  • Thundermist District

Nashua Valley Council

Main article: Nashua Valley Council

Nashua Valley Council serves north-central Massachusetts.

Old Colony Council

Main article: Old Colony Council

Old Colony Council based at Canton, Massachusetts serves southeastern Massachusetts.

Western Massachusetts Council

The Western Massachusetts Council was created on June 28, 2008 with the merger of Great Trails Council and Pioneer Valley Council. Geographically, it is the largest Boy Scout council in Massachusetts serving Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire counties and the town of Stamford, Vermont. The council operates Scout office-service centers in Westfield and Pittsfield, Massachusetts, and year-round camping facilities at Horace A. Moses Scout Reservation in Russell and Chesterfield Scout Reservation in Chesterfield, Massachusetts.

The Western Massachusetts Council is divided into four districts:

  • Appalachian Trail District
  • Metacomet District
  • General Knox District
  • Chapweq District

Order of the Arrow – The Pocumtuc Lodge of the Western Massachusetts Council was formed by the merger of Memsochet Lodge 507 (Great Trails Council) and Allogagan Lodge 83 (Pioneer Valley Council) on September 28, 2008.

Yankee Clipper Council

Main article: Yankee Clipper Council

Yankee Clipper Council was formed from a merger of the North Essex Council, North Bay Council, and Lone Tree Council in 1993. The The Yankee Clipper Council is in 52 communities in Northeastern Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire.

George W. Magee Memorial Trust Fund

The George W. Magee Memorial Trust Fund is a Massachusetts-based trust whose proceeds are used to support the purchase and improvement of the camps operated by Boy Scout Councils in Massachusetts.

History

George W. P. Magee was a theatrical agent and manager who most notably managed Boston's Grand Opera House from the 1890s through 1916. Being very involved in the community, he saw Scouting as a program making significant positive impact on the lives of young men. He turned this belief into a permanent commitment to Scouting, by establishing a trust upon his death. His will reads, in part:

"They shall pay the amounts, during their respective lives, to the individuals mentioned above, and they shall distribute the balance of the net income of the said Trust Fund to such of the councils of the BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA as are located in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and as, in the opinion of said Trustees, are performing the most efficient service, the said net income to be used, so far as possible, for the purchase and maintenance of summer camps or training camps in New England for the use of Boy Scouts. These payments shall be made by said Trustees after consultation with the officials of the Boy Scouts of America.

It is my desire that the said Councils to whom this Fund is distributed, shall, during the week of August sixth, which date is my birthday have such competitive games, drills and/or exhibitions as may, in the opinion of said Councils, be for the greatest benefit of the said boys and will also tend to permanently impress upon them the nature of the Fund, and, for such purpose, they may award such cups, badges or other recognition of merit as to them may seem proper.

In disbursing the said income, the Trustees have the right to erect in any Boy Scout camp or training field conducted under the auspices of Councils of the Boy Scouts located in Massachusetts, a lodge or general meeting place with a proper inscription showing that the said structure is erected and dedicated by this Fund."

George Magee died in 1939, with France Cornell and Frederick W. Cook becoming the original Trustees of the fund. It took nearly 5 years, until 1944, for the fund to reach the minimum level for income to be distributed ($500,000). In 1944, the fund distributed $11,000. Upon the death of Mr. Cornell in 1961, the Old Colony Trust Company became the sole corporate trustee of the fund.

Today

As of 2004, the fund had a market value of approximately $7.3 million, with an annual distribution of $210,000. Over its lifetime, the fund has contributed over $6.2 million to hundreds of projects, impacting over a million youth, at various Boy Scout camps. Funds are held by the Private Bank at Bank of America, the current successor of the Old Colony Trust Company, and they are advised by a committee composed of local Scouting professionals and volunteers. Many Massachusetts camps conduct a "Magee Night" competition or other similar event to celebrate Mr. Magee's contribution, and it is quite easy to find buildings named after Mr. Magee or with plaques bearing his name.

Councils requesting money typically make proposals to the advisory committee, stating the purpose of the project, the amount being requested, and any moneys being provided through other sources. Only Councils located in Massachusetts are eligible, although as the will reads the camps that benefit may be located elsewhere in New England.

Girl Scout Councils in Massachusetts

Map of Girl Scout councils in Massachusetts
Map of Girl Scout councils in Massachusetts

There are three Girl Scout councils serving Massachusetts, one of which is headquartered in Rhode Island.

Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts

Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts serves 15,000 girls in 186 communities. It was formed by a merger in early 2008 of three councils: Girl Scouts of Montachusett Council, Girl Scouts of Pioneer Valley, Girl Scouts of Western Massachusetts.

Headquarters: East Longmeadow, Massachusetts
website: http://www.gscwm.org/

Camps

Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts

Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts serves more than 45,000 girls and 17,000 adults in 177 Massachusetts communities and South Hampton, New Hampshire. It was formed February 1, 2008 by a merger of three councils: Girls Scouts, Patriots' Trail; Girl Scout Council of Southeastern Massachusetts; Girl Scouts of Spar and Spindle Council.

Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts
website: http://www.girlscoutseasternmass.org/

Service Centers

Camps

Girl Scouts of Rhode Island

See Scouting in Rhode Island for more information. This council supports Massachusetts girls in Bellingham, Blackstone, Attleboro, Fall River, North Attleboro, Plainville, Somerset, Swansea, Westport, Wrentham, Millville, Rehoboth and Seekonk.

Former Girl Scout Camps

Camp Muriel Flagg is a locale in Williamstown, Massachusetts named for Muriel Flagg, a Girl Scout leader and teacher. Originally a Girl Scout camp, it opened in June 1964 and probably ceased operations in the late 1970s or early 1980s. It is located at an elevation of 1,004 feet (306.0 m) and is 1.5 miles (2.4 km) north of Williamstown in Berkshire County Latitude 42°44′28″N 073°11′08″W / 42.74111°N 73.18556°W / 42.74111; -73.18556

Scouting museums

See also

References

This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. Please help to improve this article by introducing more precise citations. (April 2009) (Learn how and when to remove this message)
  1. ^ Five College Archives & Manuscript Collections, Sophia Smith Collection, Camp Bonnie Brae Records, 1917-2007 (ongoing), Collection number: MS 592, Smith College, Northampton, MA 01063.
  2. Five College Archives & Manuscript Collections, Sophia Smith Collection, Camp Bonnie Brae Records, 1917-2007 (ongoing), Collection number: MS 592, Smith College, Northampton, MA 01063.
  3. http://www.pocumtuc.org/flaps.htm

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