Did you know that there are over 50 million Scouts scattered across 216 countries and territories? It’s pretty amazing to think about how this movement, which started out so modestly in the early 20th century, has grown into such a global force.
Scouting isn’t just about earning badges and going on camping trips. It’s about forging friendships, seeking thrilling adventures, and giving back to society, leaving an enduring mark on countless generations.
So, let’s explore the captivating history of Scouts, and how it has continuously inspired young people to become active members in their communities, all in the pursuit of creating a brighter future.
Early beginnings (1907 – 1908)
The history of Scouting traces back to the vision of one man, Sir Robert Baden-Powell, a British Army officer who served from 1876 until 1902 in India and Africa. Inspired by his experiences in the military and his belief in the potential of young people, Baden-Powell organised the first experimental camp with 20 boys on Brownsea Island in 1907. Following the success of the Brownsea Island camp, Baden-Powell published “Scouting for Boys” in 1908, a manual that later became the cornerstone of the Scout movement.
The Scout Movement (1909 – 1944)
The following year, in 1909, around 11,000 Scouts, including Girl Scouts, attended a rally at Crystal Palace in London. As a result, in 1910, the Girl Guides Association was formed with Baden-Powell’s sister, Agnes, taking the lead. Subsequently, in 1912, the Boy Scouts Association was officially established in the UK through a Royal Charter, marking the official creation of Scouting.
As the movement gained momentum, it quickly expanded with the formation of Wolf Cubs (now known as Cub Scouts) for boys under the age of 11 in 1916, followed by the Rover Scouts for older members between the ages of 17-25 years old in 1918.
1920 saw the first World Scout Jamboree held at Olympia, London, with 33 National Scout Organisations in attendance. It included demonstrations and competitions of Scouting skills, all united by a common ethos of outdoor exploration, resourcefulness, and global friendship.
Then, in 1941, Lord Baden-Powell passed away, yet his legacy endured. Throughout World War II, members of the Scout International Relief Service stepped forward to provide crucial aid in war-ravaged Europe, serving as couriers and stretcher-bearers. In various regions, Sea Scouts took on the role of coast guards, exemplifying the Scout motto of “Be Prepared” in the face of adversity.
Major milestones in Scout history (1945 – 1991)
The post-war period saw significant growth and development within the Scouting movement. In 1945, the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM) was founded, bringing together national scout organisations from across the world under one umbrella. Eventually, countries that were previously inaccessible found their way to join or rejoin the movement following the end of the Cold War.
Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, Scouting continued to thrive, adapting to the changing times while staying true to its core principles. In 1961, Queen Elizabeth II inaugurated Baden-Powell House as a permanent tribute to the Founder. Other significant milestones of Scout history include the establishment of the first Little Brothers (Beaver Scouts) groups in Northern Ireland in 1963, the merger of Rover Scouts and Senior Scouts into Venture Scouts in 1967, and the integration of girls into the movement in 1976. Finally, in 1991, the decision was made to allow girls to join all sections of Scouting.
Scouting in the 21st Century (2001 – 2022)
As we step into the 21st century, a new era emerged with the Scout Association HQ’s re-location to Gilwell Park in 2001, alongside the launch of the Balanced Programme and introduction of Explorer and Network Scouts by 2002.
In 2007, The centenary of Scouting was celebrated with a series of events including the 21st World Scout Jamboree at Hylands Park in Essex. And, in 2009, SAS trooper and survival expert, Bear Grylls, was appointed as the new Chief Scout.
Since then, Scouting has experienced global expansion with a huge emphasis on peace and sustainability. From the Messengers of Peace initiative in 2011 and the launch of Scouts for SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) in 2018, to the establishment of the Earth Tribe for environmental action.
As Scouts around the world gear up for the exciting 2027 World Scout Jamboree, anticipation is building for what promises to be an unforgettable gathering of young adventurers and leaders.
Join us on a Scouting adventure at PGL!
We hope you’ve learnt a lot about the history of Scouts and if you’re ready to embark on your own adventure with your group, then why not join us on a PGL scout residential camp? Be part of a legacy that spans generations, watch your group earn badges, learn how to embrace the outdoors, make new friends and most of all, have fun!
Don’t miss out—get in touch with our friendly and experienced team today for more information! We also offer a range of thrilling multi-activity weekends and group residential trip options for Girlguiding, Youth Clubs & Trusts, Other Uniform and much more.
