Do you recognize any of these Scouts? When and where was this picture taken?
Whitehall, MI — May 2026 —
The White Lake Area Historical Society will present a special program titled “The History of Boy Scouts in the White Lake Area” on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at Lebanon Lutheran Church at 1101 S. Mears in Whitehall. The public is invited to attend this free program.
The presenter will be longtime local Scout leader Brian Holmblade, whose years of involvement in Scouting have included service as both a Scout and Scoutmaster. His presentation will focus on the development of Scouting in the White Lake area beginning in 1953, when White Lake’s Troop 48 – Now Troop 1048, was chartered. More than seventy years later, the troop remains active and continues a tradition that has shaped generations of local youths.
Attendees will hear stories and see highlights from the many Scouting programs that have served the area over the years, including Cub Scout packs, Scout troops, Venturing crews, and Sea Scout ships. The program will also explore how Scouting evolved from an organization for boys into today’s Scouting America, where boys and girls work side-by-side and complete the same advancement requirements and leadership standards, including the long journey toward earning Scouting’s highest honor, the rank of Eagle Scout.
The evening will revisit some of the most memorable parts of the Scouting experience — from camp life and outdoor adventures to jamborees and service projects. Local camps and traditions will be featured, including Camp Owasippe, which for generations has welcomed Scouts from Chicago and throughout the Midwest, along with Camp Gerber and the former Duck Lake camps of Wabaningo and Shawondossee.
One or more local Scouts, including Eagle Scouts, may attend to share their personal experiences and memories.
Current and former Scouts, Scout leaders, families, and anyone interested in local history are especially encouraged to attend.
Attendees are encouraged to support the Lebanon Church Food Pantry by bringing donations of canned or boxed food items.
Contact: White Lake Area Historical Society
Mary L. Mason, President
214-288-1759
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