Scouting Heritage Merit Badge

The Scouting Heritage merit badge helps you learn about the history of Scouting. You find out where it all started and how it has changed over time. You learn about important people and events that helped build the program. This badge is about understanding how Scouting grew into what it is today.

When you work on the Scouting Heritage merit badge, you see how Scouting has made a difference in many lives. You hear real stories from people who were Scouts in the past. You learn how their Scouting experiences helped them in school, at work, and with their families. These stories show why Scouting still matters.

This badge also helps you feel more connected to your troop and the larger Scouting movement. You learn the history of your own unit and how it fits into the bigger picture. You might find out some interesting facts about past Scouts from your area.

Working on the Scouting Heritage merit badge can help you become a better leader. You learn lessons from the past that you can use today. You also learn how to tell the story of Scouting to others. That helps you become a strong voice for Scouting in your school, your troop, and your community.

Scouting Heritage Merit Badge Requirements

Scouting Heritage Merit Badge Pamphlet

Scouting Heritage Merit Badge Workbook / Worksheet

Scouting Heritage Merit Badge Printable Requirement Check Off Sheet

Checklist for All Merit Badges

Help with Answers for Scouting Heritage Merit Badge Requirements

Find specific helps for some of the Scouting Heritage merit badge requirements listed below. Some of these resources will just give the answers. Others will provide engaging ways for older Scouts to introduce these concepts to new Scouts.

• Requirement 1: Baden-Powell’s Vision
• Requirement 2: Scouting Pioneers & Symbols
• Requirement 3: Program Evolution
• Requirement 4: Jamboree or Museum Visit
• Requirement 5: Troop History Project
• Requirement 6: Patch and Memorabilia Collection
• Requirement 7: Old-Time Scouting Game
• Requirement 8: Scouting Stories Interview
• More Resources

The Story of Baden-Powell and the Start of Scouting

The Scouting Heritage merit badge begins with learning about Robert Baden-Powell. He was born in 1857 in England. As a young man, he joined the British Army and served in many parts of the world. During a war in South Africa, he became famous for defending the town of Mafeking. He used creative tricks, like fake cannons, to fool the enemy. After that, he became well known in England.

Baden-Powell wrote a book called Aids to Scouting. It was meant for soldiers, but boys started reading it and pretending to be scouts. This gave him the idea to create a youth program. He held an experimental camp on Brownsea Island in 1907 to test his ideas. Then he wrote Scouting for Boys in 1908. That book became very popular and helped spread Scouting all over the world.

Scouting came to the United States in different ways. Even before there was an official group, people were starting Scout troops. A woman in Kentucky started a group in 1908. A missionary started one in Oklahoma in 1909. William D. Boyce, a businessman from Chicago, learned about Scouting during a trip to London. In 1910, he helped form the Boy Scouts of America.

Baden-Powell’s program also led to the start of Cub Scouting. In 1916, he created a program called Wolf Cubs for younger boys. It was based on stories from The Jungle Book. This program came to the United States later and became Cub Scouting in 1930. Ernest Thompson Seton helped develop it in the U.S. by adding ideas from Native American traditions.

When you work on the Scouting Heritage merit badge, you learn why Baden-Powell thought Scouting was important. He wanted young people to grow strong in body and character. He believed outdoor skills and teamwork would help boys become better citizens. The program was made to give boys a positive path, especially at a time when many had few good options.

Baden-Powell became known as Lord Baden-Powell of Gilwell. Scouts all over the world remember him as the founder of Scouting. His ideas still shape the program today. The Scouting Heritage merit badge helps you see how those early ideas grew into the Scouting America program you are part of now.

Daniel Carter Beard: A Pioneer for American Boys

Daniel Carter Beard was one of the key founders of Scouting in the United States. He was born in 1850 in Covington, Kentucky, just across the river from Cincinnati. As a child, he loved the outdoors. He explored forests, sketched what he saw in nature, and dreamed about the adventures of American pioneers. He remembered seeing wagons heading west, which gave him a strong connection to frontier life.

Beard became an artist and later moved to New York City to attend art school. He illustrated books, including one written by Mark Twain. One cold day in the city, he saw a group of young boys sleeping on the street. That moment made a big impact on him. He decided to help young people by starting a program that taught them useful outdoor skills.

In 1905, Beard started a group called the Sons of Daniel Boone. This group taught boys how to camp, hike, and use tools. It used frontier language and ideas. Members organized themselves into “forts” instead of patrols, and they took on the names of famous American frontiersmen. This group gave boys a place to belong and helped them learn by doing.

Later, Beard changed the name of his group to the Boy Pioneers of America. He wrote a handbook and shared his ideas in magazines. His programs were fun and exciting, but they also had a deeper purpose. Beard believed boys needed chances to grow in character, learn responsibility, and become good citizens.

When the Boy Scouts of America was founded in 1910, Beard joined with the new organization. He brought his ideas and experience to the program. He became one of the first national leaders and helped shape what Scouting looked like in America. He focused on outdoor adventure and hands-on learning, which are still important parts of the program today.

Daniel Carter Beard made a big difference in the early days of American Scouting. His work gave many boys a better future. He is remembered as “Uncle Dan” and is one of the key figures featured in the Scouting Heritage merit badge. His story helps Scouts understand how Scouting grew in the United States.

When you earn the Scouting Heritage merit badge, you learn about Beard’s role in Scouting’s history. His love of nature, care for young people, and creative ideas helped build the program that millions of Scouts have enjoyed since.

William D. Boyce: The Businessman Who Brought Scouting to America

William Dickson Boyce was a successful businessman from Chicago. He was born in 1858 and grew up on a farm in Pennsylvania. As a young man, he worked hard and became a newspaper publisher. His paper, the Saturday Blade, was one of the biggest weekly papers in the country. He made a lot of money and lived in a large house, but he also cared about helping young people, especially the boys who sold his newspapers.

In 1909, Boyce was in London getting ready to go on a hunting trip in Africa. One day he got lost in the fog. A boy came up to him and helped him find his way. When Boyce offered him a tip, the boy said no and explained that he was doing a good turn because he was a Scout. This made Boyce curious. He went to Scout headquarters in London and picked up some materials to learn more.

Boyce read about Scouting while on his trip to Africa. He liked what he read and decided to start a similar program in the United States. When he got back home, he filed the paperwork to create the Boy Scouts of America. That happened on February 8, 1910. This date is now known as the official birthday of Scouting in the United States.

Even though Boyce started the Boy Scouts of America, he did not want to run the organization. He gave money to help get it started, then passed the leadership to others. One condition he gave was that the program should be open to boys of all races and religions. That was important to him, especially because many of his newspaper boys came from different backgrounds.

Boyce was different from other Scouting founders like Baden-Powell, Seton, and Beard. He wasn’t known for camping or outdoor skills. Instead, his strength was organizing and running a business. That skill helped him build a structure for the new Scouting program in the United States.

The story of William D. Boyce is an important part of the Scouting Heritage merit badge. When you study for this badge, you learn how his trip to London and his meeting with an unknown Scout changed history. Without Boyce, the Boy Scouts of America might not have started when it did.

By learning about Boyce, Scouts can see how one decision can make a big difference. His choice to bring Scouting to the U.S. helped create a program that has helped many young people grow in character and leadership. The Scouting Heritage merit badge teaches us to remember people like Boyce who helped shape the Scouting movement.

Waite Phillips: The Man Behind Philmont

Waite Phillips was a wealthy oilman and businessman who became one of Scouting’s greatest supporters. He was born in Iowa in 1883 and grew up in a large family. As a young man, he worked with his brothers in different jobs across the country. He eventually found success in the oil business and became very rich. But even with all his success, he believed in giving back to others.

Phillips bought a large ranch in the mountains of New Mexico near the town of Cimarron. He called it Philmont, which came from his name and the word “monte,” meaning mountain. He used the ranch as a family vacation place, but he also invited young people to visit and experience the outdoors. He believed that being in nature helped build character.

In 1938, Phillips gave a large part of his Philmont Ranch to the Boy Scouts of America. This gift included thousands of acres of land and money to help build a camp. A few years later, in 1941, he donated even more land, buildings, and a lodge called Villa Philmonte. This made the total gift one of the biggest ever given to Scouting. It created what is now known as Philmont Scout Ranch.

Philmont Scout Ranch is now one of Scouting’s national high-adventure bases. Every summer, Scouts from all over the country hike its trails, learn outdoor skills, and grow in leadership. Many say it is the best Scouting experience they have ever had. None of it would be possible without Waite Phillips and his generosity.

Phillips didn’t just donate land. He also gave a tall building in Tulsa, Oklahoma, called the Philtower. The money made from renting space in that building helps support Philmont programs. This showed that Phillips was not only generous but also smart in making sure his gift would last.

The Scouting Heritage merit badge helps you understand how important people like Waite Phillips are to the program. His story teaches that you don’t have to be a Scout to support Scouting. He saw how the program helped youth and wanted to be part of it in his own way.

When you work on the Scouting Heritage merit badge, you learn how a single gift can open doors for thousands of Scouts. Waite Phillips believed in the values of Scouting and made it possible for others to grow through outdoor adventure and service. His legacy continues at Philmont today.

Ernest Thompson Seton: Nature Lover and Scout Leader

Ernest Thompson Seton was a writer, artist, and naturalist who helped shape the early Scouting movement in the United States. He was born in 1860 in England but grew up in Canada. From a young age, he loved nature. He spent hours studying birds and animals, learning about their habits, and drawing them in great detail.

Seton became well known for his wildlife drawings and stories. In 1898, he published a popular book called Wild Animals I Have Known. It featured stories about animals with names and personalities. People liked how he combined facts with storytelling. His work helped others understand and care about wildlife.

In 1902, Seton started a youth group called the Woodcraft Indians at his home in Connecticut. He invited local boys to camp on his land and learn outdoor skills. He taught them about nature, leadership, and Native American traditions. He gave each boy a role in the group and helped them form their own tribe. His goal was to help boys grow through time in nature and simple living.

Seton wrote a handbook for his group called The Birch-Bark Roll of the Woodcraft Indians. It included camping tips, group rules, and nature lessons. He later shared this book with Robert Baden-Powell, who used some of the ideas in his own book Scouting for Boys. Seton’s work had a big influence on the early days of the Scouting movement.

When the Boy Scouts of America was formed in 1910, Seton joined as one of the founders. He became the first Chief Scout and helped write the first American Scout handbook. His focus on nature, storytelling, and personal growth became a big part of the Scouting program.

The Scouting Heritage merit badge teaches you about the people who helped build Scouting. Seton is important because he brought a deep respect for nature and learning. He believed that outdoor experiences could help boys grow into good people.

When you work on the Scouting Heritage merit badge, Seton’s story shows how creativity and love for the outdoors can help others. His ideas still shape how Scouts learn about the world around them. His influence is seen in the many nature activities and outdoor adventures Scouts enjoy today.

James E. West: Scouting’s First Chief Executive

James E. West was the first Chief Scout Executive of the Boy Scouts of America. He was born in 1876 and had a very hard childhood. He lost both of his parents at a young age and was raised in an orphanage. He also had health problems from a disease called tuberculosis, which made it hard for him to walk. Even with these challenges, he worked hard and graduated from high school and law school.

West cared deeply about children. Before working with the Boy Scouts, he helped create a juvenile court system to protect young people. He worked with groups like the YMCA and pushed for better parks and playgrounds for kids. He even got President Theodore Roosevelt to hold a national meeting about children’s needs.

In 1911, West was asked to become the first Chief Scout Executive of the Boy Scouts of America. He only planned to stay for a few months, but he ended up leading the organization for 32 years. Under his leadership, the BSA grew into a strong national program. He helped set up councils, train leaders, and build camps all across the country.

West believed that Scouting should teach more than just outdoor skills. He wanted it to help boys grow in character, citizenship, and service. He helped write the Scout Oath and Law as we know them today. He also added three points to the Scout Law—brave, clean, and reverent.

Even though West wasn’t an outdoorsman like other Scouting founders, his leadership helped build the foundation for the Scouting program in America. He focused on structure and organization, which helped Scouting grow and last. His work gave millions of boys a chance to grow and learn through Scouting.

The Scouting Heritage merit badge includes learning about people like James E. West. His story shows how someone can overcome hardship and still make a big impact. He believed in the power of Scouting to change lives for the better.

When you earn the Scouting Heritage merit badge, you learn how important strong leadership is to the Scouting movement. West’s dedication helped shape the program into what it is today. His efforts continue to support Scouts through the traditions, values, and systems he helped put in place.

“Green Bar Bill” Hillcourt: The Voice of Patrol Leaders

William Hillcourt, known to Scouts as “Green Bar Bill,” was one of the most important leaders in the history of the Boy Scouts of America. He was born in Denmark in 1900. As a young boy, he got a copy of Scouting for Boys and quickly became involved in Scouting. He earned the Danish version of the Eagle Scout rank and became a Scoutmaster before moving to the United States in 1926.

Hillcourt loved writing and teaching. He got the nickname “Green Bar Bill” from the green bars on the patrol leader patch. He wrote articles for Boys’ Life magazine and became known for giving helpful tips to patrol leaders. He used a simple writing style that was easy for youth to understand. That style helped him connect with Scouts across the country.

In 1929, Hillcourt wrote the Handbook for Patrol Leaders. This book taught Scouts how to lead their patrols and work as a team. His ideas helped strengthen the patrol method. The patrol method is when Scouts are grouped into smaller teams, each led by a Scout. It teaches leadership and teamwork, which are key parts of Scouting.

Hillcourt also wrote several editions of the Boy Scout Handbook and the Scoutmaster Handbook. He believed that Scouts should learn by doing. He promoted outdoor adventure, good leadership, and youth-led activities. His writing shaped how Scouts learned and how Scout leaders trained others.

In 1936, Hillcourt started Troop 1 in New Jersey to test his ideas. He used what he learned from his troop to improve the handbooks and training courses. He also helped bring Wood Badge, a training program for adult leaders, to the United States. Hillcourt led the first official Wood Badge courses in 1948.

Hillcourt met Lord Baden-Powell and later wrote a biography about him called Baden-Powell: The Two Lives of a Hero. He wanted Scouts to remember where the movement started and to honor its traditions. He helped connect American Scouts to the worldwide Scouting family.

The Scouting Heritage merit badge teaches about the people who helped Scouting grow. “Green Bar Bill” Hillcourt made a lasting difference by teaching leadership and keeping the patrol method strong. His books and articles helped both Scouts and Scoutmasters for many years.

When you earn the Scouting Heritage merit badge, you learn how Hillcourt’s ideas are still part of your troop today. If you’ve ever led a patrol or worked together on a hike or a campout, you’ve followed the methods he taught. His work continues to help Scouts grow and lead.

Brownsea Island: Where Scouting Began

Brownsea Island is a small island off the coast of England. In 1907, it became the site of the very first Scout camp. Robert Baden-Powell chose this location to test out his new ideas for a program that would teach boys useful skills and strong values. This camp is considered the beginning of the worldwide Scouting movement.

Baden-Powell invited 20 boys to the island. They came from different backgrounds, including private schools and working-class families. He divided them into patrols and gave each patrol a leader. This was the start of the patrol method, where small groups of Scouts work together as a team. The patrol method is still a key part of Scouting today.

During the Brownsea Island camp, the boys practiced skills like tracking, cooking, knot tying, and first aid. They also learned about teamwork, leadership, and outdoor living. These activities formed the basic structure of Scouting. Baden-Powell saw how well the boys responded, and he knew he had found something important.

The camp lasted just over a week, but it had a big impact. The next year, Baden-Powell wrote a book called Scouting for Boys, based on what he tried out at Brownsea. That book led to the formation of Scout patrols across England and later around the world. Boys started organizing their own troops, often before any official Scout group was in place.

Today, Brownsea Island is remembered as the birthplace of Scouting. There is a stone marker on the island to honor the first camp. Scouts from many countries visit to see where it all began. It is a place that reminds us of the roots of the movement and how a simple camp started something big.

The Scouting Heritage merit badge helps you understand why places like Brownsea Island matter. It shows that Scouting started with real outdoor experiences. It wasn’t just about reading a book or going to meetings—it was about being outside, working as a team, and growing in character.

When you work on the Scouting Heritage merit badge, learning about Brownsea Island helps you see how the things you do in Scouting today are connected to that first camp. From patrols to outdoor skills, many parts of your troop experience started right there. Brownsea Island is an important piece of Scouting’s story.

The First World Scout Jamboree: A Global Gathering Begins

The First World Scout Jamboree was held in 1920 in London, England. It was the first time Scouts from different countries came together in one place. Over 8,000 Scouts and leaders from 33 countries attended. They met at the Olympia arena for eight days of activities, friendship, and celebration. This event showed that Scouting had grown from a small idea on Brownsea Island into a worldwide movement.

The word “jamboree” means a large, joyful gathering. Baden-Powell chose it as the name for this event because it captured the spirit of what he wanted—Scouts coming together to learn from each other and build peace. At the Jamboree, Scouts took part in games, contests, and displays. They shared songs, stories, and traditions from their home countries.

One of the most important moments at the First World Scout Jamboree came when Baden-Powell was called “Chief Scout of the World.” This title was not official, but it showed how Scouts from all over respected him as the founder and leader of the movement. It was a powerful symbol of unity and friendship.

This Jamboree helped spread the message that Scouting was not just for one country. It was a global program that helped young people build character, learn skills, and work together across borders. It also showed that Scouting could help bring peace by encouraging Scouts to understand and respect each other, even if they came from very different places.

Since that first Jamboree in 1920, World Scout Jamborees have been held every few years in different countries. Each one gives Scouts a chance to meet others from around the world, trade patches, and make new friends. These gatherings continue the tradition started in London.

The Scouting Heritage merit badge teaches the history of events like the First World Scout Jamboree. When you learn about this gathering, you see how Scouting became a worldwide movement. It helps you understand how Scouts in every country share many of the same values and goals.

As you work on the Scouting Heritage merit badge, remember that your troop is part of something much bigger. The First World Scout Jamboree reminds us that Scouting connects people everywhere. That spirit of global friendship is still alive in Scouting today.

The Boy Scout Handbook: A Guide for Generations

The Boy Scout Handbook has been part of Scouting since the very beginning. It was first published in 1911, just one year after the Boy Scouts of America was founded. This book has helped millions of Scouts learn skills, understand the Scout Oath and Law, and grow into strong leaders. It is one of the most printed and used handbooks in American youth programs.

The first edition of the Boy Scout Handbook was based on Baden-Powell’s Scouting for Boys and other early guides. Ernest Thompson Seton and other founders helped write the first versions. The goal was to give Scouts a simple, useful book filled with advice for outdoor activities, first aid, nature study, and good citizenship. It also explained the values of Scouting and how to live by them each day.

Over the years, the Boy Scout Handbook has gone through many updates. Each edition reflects the time in which it was written. Earlier versions focused on survival skills, woodcraft, and farming. Later versions included science, technology, and environmental care. In every edition, the handbook helps Scouts meet rank requirements and prepare for adventures.

The Boy Scout Handbook also shows how Scouting changes to fit the needs of youth. New editions have added sections on internet safety, service projects, leadership, and diversity. But the core message has stayed the same—Scouting is about building character, learning useful skills, and helping others.

Scouts carry their handbook in their packs, use it at troop meetings, and read it at home. It is a trusted tool for personal growth and learning. Scout leaders also use it to guide meetings and advancement. It helps everyone stay on the same page, literally and figuratively.

The Scouting Heritage merit badge teaches you why tools like the Boy Scout Handbook are so important. It connects generations of Scouts through shared learning. Scouts in the 1920s, 1950s, and today all relied on this book to help them succeed and serve.

When you work on the Scouting Heritage merit badge, studying the Boy Scout Handbook helps you understand how Scouting is passed down. This book is not just about tying knots and building fires—it is a symbol of Scouting’s lasting values and the desire to grow into a person who makes a difference.

Scout Life Magazine: A Monthly Connection for Scouts

Scout Life magazine, which was called Boys’ Life until 2021, has been an important part of Scouting for a long time. The first issue came out in 1911, just one year after the Boy Scouts of America was started. It was created to give Scouts something fun and useful to read. The magazine has included stories, tips, comics, jokes, and articles about science, sports, and Scouting adventures.

From the beginning, Boys’ Life focused on helping Scouts grow and learn. It included advice on camping, hiking, first aid, and rank advancement. It also showed what Scouts in other parts of the country were doing. This helped Scouts feel like part of a larger movement, not just their local troop.

The magazine often featured true stories about Scouts who helped others in emergencies. These stories showed what it means to live by the Scout Oath and Law. They reminded readers that Scouts are helpful, brave, and prepared. Articles like these encouraged readers to act with courage and kindness in their own lives.

Scout Life has also supported youth creativity. For many years, the magazine has published drawings, photos, and short stories from Scouts across the country. It has also featured the Pee Wee Harris comic, which became a favorite for generations. This helped young readers feel connected to Scouting in a fun way.

As times changed, so did the magazine. It added new topics like computers, space exploration, and environmental science. It kept up with the interests of Scouts while continuing to teach the values of the program. In 2021, the name changed from Boys’ Life to Scout Life to reflect the fact that Scouting is now open to both boys and girls.

The Scouting Heritage merit badge teaches you how tools like Scout Life magazine help keep the program strong. This magazine gave Scouts new ideas, taught important skills, and reminded them of their values. It showed that Scouting can be both serious and fun.

When you work on the Scouting Heritage merit badge, learning about Scout Life helps you see how Scouting connects people over time. Scouts from the past read the same magazine you can read today. It is a shared experience that ties the Scouting generations together.

How Scouting Programs Grew and Changed

Scouting started in 1910 with just one program, called Boy Scouting. It was made for boys aged 12 to 17. The focus was on outdoor skills, character, and service. Scouts worked in patrols, earned ranks, and followed the Scout Oath and Law. That basic structure is still part of the program today, now called Scouts BSA. But over time, Scouting added new programs to serve younger children, older teens, and youth with different interests.

In 1930, Cub Scouting was created for younger boys. The program was built on ideas from Baden-Powell’s Wolf Cubs in England. At first, it used characters from The Jungle Book. Over the years, Cub Scouting changed to better fit American culture. Today, it includes boys and girls in kindergarten through fifth grade. It focuses on fun, learning, and family involvement.

Exploring began in the 1930s as part of Senior Scouting. It was made for older Scouts who wanted to try more advanced activities. Over time, Exploring became a program for career exploration. Posts focused on jobs like law enforcement, medicine, and aviation. In 1998, Exploring became part of Learning for Life, a school and work-based program that is separate from traditional Scouting.

In 1998, Venturing was created to serve youth ages 14 to 20 who were interested in outdoor adventure, leadership, and service. Venturing crews can focus on almost any area—camping, sailing, high adventure, or religious service. The Venturing program is flexible and youth-led. It also has its own ranks and awards, like the Summit Award.

A big change happened in 2019 when the Boy Scouts of America began allowing girls to join Scouts BSA. Girls had already been part of Exploring and Venturing, but now they could work toward ranks like Tenderfoot, Star, and Eagle Scout. Separate all-girl troops were formed, and girls began to enjoy the same leadership and advancement opportunities as boys. This made the Scouting program more inclusive and gave all youth a path to grow through outdoor adventure and service.

Each of these programs was made to match the needs and interests of different age groups. Cub Scouts need fun and family involvement. Scouts BSA offers hands-on learning and leadership. Exploring helps teens think about future careers. Venturing gives older youth a chance to lead and try advanced activities.

The Scouting Heritage merit badge shows how these programs grew over time. They didn’t all start at once. Scouting leaders saw what young people needed and created new programs to help them grow. This made Scouting stronger and more welcoming to more youth.

When you earn the Scouting Heritage merit badge, you learn that change in Scouting is not new. The programs have always adapted to serve more youth in better ways. That’s how Scouting stays useful and exciting today.

Exploring Scouting’s Past Through Trips and Visits

For this part of the Scouting Heritage merit badge, you get to choose one of three ways to explore Scouting’s history. Each option lets you learn more about how Scouting has grown and how it continues to shape lives today. You can pick the option that works best for you based on your interests and what is available near you.

The first choice is to attend a National Jamboree, a World Scout Jamboree, or visit a national high-adventure base like Philmont, Northern Tier, Sea Base, or the Summit. If you choose this, you should keep a daily journal during your trip. Write down what you do, who you meet, and what you learn. Collect items like photos, maps, and brochures. After the trip, share what you experienced with your counselor. This helps you reflect on how your adventure connects to Scouting’s values and history.

The second option is to visit or research the National Scouting Museum. This museum is located at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico. It holds a large collection of Scouting artifacts like uniforms, badges, books, and gear. You can learn about people who helped start Scouting and how the program has changed over time. If you cannot visit in person, you can look up information online or write to the museum for materials. Think about what this museum teaches and how it helps preserve Scouting’s story for future Scouts.

The third choice is to visit a Scouting history exhibit or meet with someone in your council who collects Scouting memorabilia. This could be a special room at your local council office or a small display at a museum. You might also meet with a person who collects old handbooks, patches, or uniforms. These collectors often know a lot about the past and are happy to share. Be sure to ask questions and take notes on what you learn.

Each of these three options gives you a different way to connect with Scouting’s past. Whether you travel to a camp, explore a museum, or talk with a local historian, you will gain a better understanding of where Scouting came from and why it matters today. These experiences help you see the values of the program in action.

When you work on the Scouting Heritage merit badge, this requirement helps bring history to life. It is not just about reading—it’s about seeing, hearing, and exploring. This helps you feel part of the larger Scouting story, going back over 100 years.

Whichever option you choose, take your time, ask good questions, and think about how Scouting has shaped your own journey. You’ll be sharing a piece of history and becoming part of it too.

Discovering the Story of Your Own Troop

One important part of the Scouting Heritage merit badge is learning about the history of your own troop or Scouting in your area. This helps you understand how your unit fits into the larger story of the Scouting movement. Every troop has its own history filled with people, events, and traditions that make it unique. Learning this history helps you feel more connected to your troop and its past.

To complete this part of the Scouting Heritage merit badge, you need to talk with at least two people who know about your troop’s history. One should be someone from the past, like a former Scoutmaster or a Scout who was in the troop years ago. The other should be someone involved in the troop today, like a current leader or committee member. These interviews help you hear real stories and get different views about how the troop has changed and grown.

You will also need to find out when your troop was first chartered. That means learning when it was officially started and registered with Scouting America. Your council service center may have old records that can help. Your troop’s chartered organization might also have helpful information or know someone who was there when it started.

Once you have gathered your information, you need to share it. You can write a report, make a slideshow, create a scrapbook, or put together an exhibit. This project should be presented to your patrol, your whole troop, or at a court of honor. Then, it should be added to your troop’s library so other Scouts can learn from it in the future.

This project gives you the chance to practice skills like interviewing, research, writing, and public speaking. It also gives you a chance to show leadership by teaching others about the history you discovered. If your troop has a historian position, this would be a good job for that Scout—or you might want to volunteer.

The Scouting Heritage merit badge helps you learn that history is not just in books. It is in people and places around you. When you listen to the stories of those who came before, you help keep the memory of their work and service alive.

Working on this requirement gives you a better understanding of your troop’s values, traditions, and past challenges. It reminds you that Scouting is about building something lasting. You are now part of your troop’s history, and one day someone might ask you to tell your story too.

Playing Like the First Scouts

One fun part of the Scouting Heritage merit badge is getting to try out a game that Scouts played in the early days of the movement. These games were part of the first Scout camp on Brownsea Island in 1907. Robert Baden-Powell used games to teach skills like observation, teamwork, and tracking. The games were fun but also had a purpose—to help Scouts learn by doing.

For this requirement, you will choose an old-time Scouting game, either from the Scouting Heritage merit badge pamphlet or one approved by your counselor. Then you will recreate the equipment needed for that game. Many of these games don’t require anything fancy. You can often use simple items like sticks, flags, paper, or string. The goal is to make the game feel like something the early Scouts might have played.

One example is the “Kim’s Game,” which is used to teach observation and memory. It’s named after the main character in a book by Rudyard Kipling. To play, you place several small objects on a tray. Scouts look at the tray for a minute, then try to remember as many items as they can after the tray is covered. This helps build attention to detail. See an example of how to play Kim’s Game with a first aid kit.

Another old-time game is “Stalking,” where Scouts move quietly and try to get close to a target without being seen. This game teaches patience, quiet movement, and paying attention to your surroundings. You can use natural obstacles like trees or rocks to make it more fun.

After you choose your game and make or gather the supplies, you’ll need to teach it to other Scouts. Explain the rules and make sure everyone understands the goal. Then play the game together. This gives you a chance to lead and also gives others a taste of Scouting’s early days.

These games are not just about having fun. They help Scouts practice skills like leadership, communication, and teamwork. They also remind us that Scouting has always included active learning, not just sitting and listening.

When you work on the Scouting Heritage merit badge, this requirement helps bring the history of Scouting to life. You get to experience what early Scouts did and pass that experience on to others. It’s a hands-on way to understand how the program started and why it still works today.

Learning from Scouts Who Came Before

For this part of the Scouting Heritage merit badge, you will interview three adults who were Scouts when they were younger. Each person must be at least 40 years old. They must be different from the people you talked with in requirement 5. This gives you a chance to learn how Scouting was done in the past and how it shaped people’s lives.

When you interview someone, ask them about their experiences in Scouting. You can ask questions like: What troop were you in? What did you like most about Scouting? Did you earn any ranks or merit badges? Did you go to summer camp or a jamboree? Try to learn what they remember best about being a Scout. Some may have funny stories or special memories about campouts, patrols, or their Scout leaders.

Also ask how Scouting made a difference in their life. Did they learn skills that helped them in school, work, or raising a family? Did they make friends they still talk to today? Some people may say that Scouting taught them how to lead, solve problems, or stay calm in tough situations. Others might say it helped them get their first job or try new things they never would have done otherwise.

It’s helpful to take notes during the interviews. You could also ask for permission to record the conversation so you don’t miss anything. Afterward, think about what the stories have in common. What values and lessons seem to stay the same, no matter when someone was in Scouts?

Once you have finished all three interviews, you will need to share what you learned with your counselor. This could be a short talk, a written report, or a simple outline of the main points. You don’t need to include every detail—just focus on what stood out to you and what lessons you took from hearing their stories.

This part of the Scouting Heritage merit badge helps you see how Scouting connects generations. You’ll notice that many of the things you are doing today—like hiking, learning skills, helping others—are the same things Scouts were doing 30, 40, or even 60 years ago. That shared experience helps keep the Scouting spirit strong.

When you work on the Scouting Heritage merit badge, hearing from former Scouts shows you the lasting power of the program. It reminds you that what you are learning now may stay with you for the rest of your life. Their stories help you understand that Scouting really can make a lifelong difference.

More Merit Badge Resources

The merit badge program helps Scouts explore different skills and interests. Some badges teach outdoor skills, while others focus on science, art, or service. Each badge lets Scouts learn something new and grow in knowledge. Some badges help with career goals. Others help Scouts build character and leadership.

The Scouting Heritage merit badge helps Scouts learn about the history of the program they are part of. It fits into the merit badge program by showing how Scouting has shaped people and communities over time. This badge helps Scouts understand their role in a tradition that continues today.

Learn More about Scouts BSA

The Scouts BSA program helps youth grow through leadership, fitness, citizenship, and personal development. It gives Scouts chances to learn by doing, work in teams, and take on real responsibility. Each part of the program builds skills that last a lifetime.

The Scouting Heritage merit badge supports this growth by helping Scouts understand where these values came from. By learning about Scouting’s past, Scouts see how leadership and service have shaped the program. This helps them better understand their role today and how they can continue that legacy.

What is the Scouting Heritage merit badge about?

The Scouting Heritage merit badge helps you learn the history of Scouting. You will study important people, places, and events. You will also explore how Scouting has changed over time.

Do I need to visit a museum for the Scouting Heritage merit badge?

No, but it is one of the options. You can visit the National Scouting Museum, a local display, or talk with a Scouting historian. Choose the option that works best for you.

What kind of game do I need to teach for the Scouting Heritage merit badge?

You will pick an old-time Scouting game. You can find one in the merit badge pamphlet or ask your counselor to approve one. Make the game materials and teach it to other Scouts.

Do I have to interview anyone?

Yes. For one requirement, interview two people from your troop—one from the past and one from today. For another, interview three people over age 40 who were Scouts.

How long does it take to earn the Scouting Heritage merit badge?

It depends on how quickly you complete the interviews, research, and other tasks. Some parts take time, like creating a troop history report or attending a special event.

Can I do this merit badge with a group?

Yes. You can do many parts with a group, like visiting a museum or playing a game. But each Scout must complete their own interviews and reports.

Why is the Scouting Heritage merit badge important?

This merit badge helps you understand how Scouting started and why it still matters today. It connects you with the past and shows how Scouting has helped many people.

Do I need to turn in a written report?

Some parts of the Scouting Heritage merit badge do require a report, but it doesn’t have to be written. You can also make a slideshow, give a talk, or create a scrapbook.

Can I earn the Scouting Heritage merit badge if I haven’t been in Scouting very long?

Yes. Any Scout can earn this badge. You don’t need to be in Scouting for years. Just be ready to learn and talk with others.

The Scouting Heritage merit badge is all about learning where Scouting came from. It helps you understand how the program started, who helped build it, and how it has changed over time. You’ll hear stories from the past, study old gear, and try out games the first Scouts played.

To earn the Scouting Heritage merit badge, you’ll do interviews with former Scouts, learn about your own troop’s history, and visit a museum or meet a Scouting historian. You’ll also create a report and share what you found with your troop. These activities help you see that Scouting has always been about learning, helping, and adventure.

The Scouting Heritage merit badge helps you discover how Scouts from the past lived out the Scout Law and Oath. You’ll see how the values have stayed the same, even as uniforms, handbooks, and activities have changed. This badge reminds you that you are part of something bigger.

Learning about Scouting’s history gives you a better sense of what it means to be a Scout. This badge helps you build a bridge between the Scouts of yesterday and the Scouts of today. And maybe, one day, a future Scout will learn from your story too.