From "Beckley U.S.A." by Harlow Warren, p. 77, vol. 1. In book: "This is purported to be the first organized Boy Scout troop in Raleigh County; there was a No. 1 at East Raleigh, but it surrendered its charter and joined the above. It was sponsored by Raleigh Mining Institute; its prime mover was Col. Ernest Chilson and Scout Master, R. B. Holmes, of 308 Temple Street, Beckley. Mr. Holmes led the troop for ten years. The cabin was handsomely built by R. M. I. on the hill back of the coal company store, and still exists-unused and deteriorating!" (p. 77). Back of portrait: "Boy Scouts and cabin. Col. Chilson sponsor, prime mover and inspiration, Raleigh Troop No. 2; combine of 1 and 2. R. B. Holmes Scout Master ten years, sponsored by Raleigh Mining Institute. Back of new store. R. B. Holmes, electrical engineer." Harlow Warren, copyright 1955.

Portrait of First Organized Boy Scouts Troop of Raleigh County, W. Va.

Identifier:: 036391
Collection Number:: A&M 3698
Title:: Portrait of First Organized Boy Scouts Troop of Raleigh County, W. Va.
Date:: 1916
Description:: From "Beckley U.S.A." by Harlow Warren, p. 77, vol. 1. In book: "This is purported to be the first organized Boy Scout troop in Raleigh County; there was a No. 1 at East Raleigh, but it surrendered its charter and joined the above. It was sponsored by Raleigh Mining Institute; its prime mover was Col. Ernest Chilson and Scout Master, R. B. Holmes, of 308 Temple Street, Beckley. Mr. Holmes led the troop for ten years. The cabin was handsomely built by R. M. I. on the hill back of the coal company store, and still exists-unused and deteriorating!" (p. 77). Back of portrait: "Boy Scouts and cabin. Col. Chilson sponsor, prime mover and inspiration, Raleigh Troop No. 2; combine of 1 and 2. R. B. Holmes Scout Master ten years, sponsored by Raleigh Mining Institute. Back of new store. R. B. Holmes, electrical engineer." Harlow Warren, copyright 1955.
Acquisition Method:: Acquired
Medium:: print
Projects:: West Virginia History OnView