Legacy is Vital to an Organization’s Sustainability

Thanks to 21st century technology, one important chapter of Scouting’s history has been preserved for generations to come.

A rough draft of the first Boy Scout handbook – “Scouting for Boys,” authored by Scouting’s founder, Lord Robert Baden-Powell – was found recently in the archives of the British Scouting headquarters in London.

Lord Robert Baden-Powell // Photo courtesy of Scout Stories

Brigham Young University (BYU) History Professor Paul Kerry learned of the rare find and called on the university’s Harold B. Lee Library, Special Collections, for help to digitally preserve the handbook draft.  Two BYU students traveled to the British Scouting headquarters at London’s Gilwell Park and spent a month digitizing 41 boxes of Lord Baden-Powell’s papers, including the draft handbook.

Soon these materials will be available online on the Harold B. Lee Library website, providing a treasure trove of Scouting history for all to see.

Why is this important?  Aside from being a great find, comments from the students working on the project demonstrated how Scouting’s teachings that are of value to young people today were evident even in the early drafts of Lord Baden-Powell’s handbook material.

“It was just fun to see articles teaching young men how to grow and be responsible men and resourceful people,” said BYU photography student Chelsea Bauer. “It made me stop and think just how much time and though was put into the organization of the (Scouting) association,” added BYU communications student Riley Lovesee.

While I believe looking forward is the best path for success and sustainability for any organization, it’s also good to know that we can trace our roots and know that our mission was built on a solid foundation for serving America’s youth.  Congratulations to BYU for having the foresight to preserve these important Scouting documents!

What discoveries have reinforced your thinking that your organization’s mission is still honoring the thinking of your founders?  Share your stories here!

Have a great and safe weekend!

Wayne