Over 120 scouts, former scouts, family members and leaders gathered this weekend at Seven Mountains Scout Camp to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Boy Scout Troop 31.
Troop 31 was first chartered by St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in State College, and has been continuously chartered by St. Paul’s since 1914.
Over the weekend scouts took part in multiple activity stations including canoeing, outdoor skills, branding, and swimming. There was also a large history display that showed how scouting has changed over the years, but also, how many of the core skills and values taught in scouting have stayed the same.
Since 1914, Troop 31 has had 30 scoutmasters many of whom were in attendance for a campfire Saturday night that featured songs and skits. Benjamin Henderson was recognized as the 170th Eagle Scout in the troop’s history.
Throughout the weekend scouts shared some of their fondest memories with the troop.
“Sea Base in 2008,” Troop 31 alum Paul Marboe said of one of his favorite memories. “Participating in the 2010 National Jamboree which was also the 100th anniversary of the Scouts. I was honored to be selected as one of the Senior Patrol Leaders for the Council. That was really humbling to be selected by my fellow Scouts.”
Heading into the 100th year of scouting at Troop 31 the organization is alive and well. With a total of 59 scouts, one scoutmaster, 14 assistant scoutmasters, 18 committee members and one chartered organization representative.
“Go out and make the next 100 years as great as the past 100.” Scout John Campbell told his fellow scouts before Saturday’s dinner.
