An overview of Scouting in West Somerset

In 1907 General Robert Baden-Powell (who later became Lord Baden-Powell of Gilwell) held an experimental camp on Brownsea Island in Poole Harbour, Dorset. The camp of 21 boys was a great success, this, together with his book "Scouting for Boys' was the beginning of the Scout movement.

As a result boys everywhere began to form themselves into Patrols and Troops of Scouts. Here in West Somerset some Troops were established by 1909. Within a few years and later there were troops in Minehead, Alcombe, Porlock, Porlock Weir, Watchet, Williton, Dunster, Dulverton, Selworthy, Timberscombe, Exford, Simonsbath, Brushford, Carhampton, Washford, Roadwater, Crowcombe, Stogumber & Cutcombe. Scouting soon became well established in West Somerset and the Wolf Cubs were formed in 1916, these and later the Beavers are now a very large part of the movement.

From the early days when Troops were springing up like mushrooms all over Britain, the movement began to spread across the world, and there are now Scouts in over 100 countries. Scouting Time Line.

The aims have always been to encourage young people to grow into good citizens, and to give them many interests, the emphasise being on the outdoor life: of camping and hiking. Learning to live together in harmony, guided by the Scout law and promise.

Many older men look back and have wonderful memories of the fellowship they had, and the friendships they made through their time in Scouting. Many have been in the movement throughout their boyhood and into adult lives, perhaps as leaders or as members of the Scout Fellowship. (West Somerset Scout Fellowship)

Dennis Corner MBE

1/2/2005