HOWARD — More than 500 Scouts participated in a Spring Camporee sponsored by the Juniata Valley Council and Troop 353 in Howard from April 24 through April 26. The event was held at the Eagle Iron Works and historic Curtin Village. The theme of the Camporee was Our American Heritage.
The scouts had the opportunity to earn the American Heritage merit badge, tour the original Roland Curtin mansion, the iron works and furnace. Scouts participated in a blacksmith demonstration, leather working, hand-hewn log working and the manufacture of charcoal, the essential fuel to run the furnace.
U.S. Rep. Glen “GT” Thompson, R-Bellefonte, had a busy day teaching the scouts about careers in American government and helping them discover how citizens can make an impact in their government at every level.
Scouts attended two flag intensive programs which provided educational materials on the history, etiquette, and customs of the American flag.
A Council Camporee occurs only once every four years for Scouts living within four districts.
