Troop Historian Description and Self Evaluation

The Troop Historian is a youth leadership position within a Scouts BSA troop. They are responsible for keeping a record of the troop’s history, as well as documenting its current activities and events. The Troop Historian plays a crucial role in helping to ensure that the troop’s legacy is preserved for future generations.

One of the key responsibilities of the Troop Historian is to keep a record of the troop’s history. This includes documenting its founding, key milestones, and notable events throughout its history. The Troop Historian is also responsible for collecting and preserving photographs, memorabilia, and other artifacts that help to tell the story of the troop’s history.

Another important role of the Troop Historian is to document the troop’s current activities and events. This includes taking photographs, writing articles for the troop’s newsletter or website, and creating scrapbooks or other memory books that capture the experiences of troop members.

In addition to their historical documentation responsibilities, the Troop Historian is also expected to lead by example and adhere to the Scout Oath and Law. This means setting a positive example for other Scouts by living up to the values of Scouting and demonstrating a strong commitment to service and community.

The description below represents an example of the requirements and expectations for this position in one troop. Specifics can vary from one troop to another.

The printable copy also includes a self evaluation form for the position on the second page. Youth leaders might benefit from self evaluating during their term. If you use this, then keep it positive with them. It should only be used to help them recognize areas they should be working on.

This is just an example. Adjust as needed to meet the size, customs, and needs of your unit.

Qualifications:

• Appointed by Senior Patrol Leader and Assistant Senior Patrol Leader with Scoutmaster approval
• Tenderfoot Rank or higher (Not a BSA requirement)

Reports to: The Assistant Senior Patrol Leader

Trained by: Assistant Senior Patrol Leader with assistance from the Assistant Scoutmaster for Older Scouts

May not serve three consecutive terms

Troop Historian duties:

• Keep a journal of all Troop events for historical purposes.
• Includes in journal reports of each outing or activity.
• Includes in journal entries the place and time of the event, a few paragraphs about the event, and a list of attendees.
• Document journal entries with photographs and maps when possible.
• Bring journal to each Court of Honor so that Troop members may review it.
• Arrive 5 minutes before the start of troop meetings.
• Participate in outings. Attendance expectation 80%
• Attend troop meetings. Attendance expectation 30%
• Wear the field uniform (class A) correctly to all regular troop meetings and religious services.
• Wear the activity uniform (class B t-shirt) to all outings and other troop activities.
• Live by the Scout Oath and Law
• Set a good example.
• Show scout spirit.

Click here to download a printable PDF copy of the sample Troop Historian Description and Self Evaluation.

Scouts BSA Youth Leadership Positions Video

Is there a minimum age or rank requirement for Troop Historian?

There is not a minimum set by BSA. However troops may set their own qualifications based on the size of their troop and the maturity of their troop. This job is perfect for a Scout who likes to take pictures and write journal entries and can often be filled by a troop member with little Scouting experience.