Camp Zinn Horseback Trek Camp Patch

In the early 1950’s the Choccolocco Council began the process of improving its camping program within the Council. One of the goals was to create program that would continue to draw the interests of the older boys within the program. With this in mind a Horseback trek was developed to cater to Explorers within the council. The program ran from 1950-1952 and consisted of a five day trek from Camp Zinn into the heart of Talladega National Forest. During the trek Explorers would camp at outpost camps which included Lost Valley Camp, Bankhead Tower, and Shoal Creek. Explorers cooked their own meals which usually consisted of fish and frogs they caught while on the trek. The trek would culminate with the return to Zinn on Friday where a large rodeo was held to demonstrate the participants newly acquired equestrian skills.

The above patch was issued for these treks. It is not evident if this patch was issued for the three years the program was put on, but with the low number of participants each week and the limited number of years the program existed it serves as one of the rarest Zinn pieces in existence.  There were likely two patch issues, the above white flocked patch and a maroon colored patch with the same logo flocked in white.

Pow "Wow" Patch - Achunanchi Lodge 135

Achunanchi Lodge 135 was chartered in September of 1938 to serve the Choccolocco Council, from its inception the lodge held many activities including ordeals, fellowships, and an annual Christmas Banquet; but it was not until 1964 when the lodge hosted its first pow-wow. Held from August 7-9 at Camp Zinn this event also marked the first time the lodge had issued a patch for a lodge function. This event was described by Lodge Chief Jim Weed as “the big lodge meeting of the year” and the weekend served as a time to elect lodge and chapter officers, participate in OA Olympics, learn and compete in Native American Dance, and the weekend also served as an Ordeal as well.

At a cost of 3.50 for the weekend it is viewed today as a bargain. The 3.50 fee also included a “beautiful 80 cent Pow-Wow Patch”. Quite a steal as it is difficult to find one for under $800.00 now. The design however for the patch wasn’t original to the lodge. In 1959 Mowogo 243 of Athens, Georgia used the design to celebrate their first pow-wow. Talking with many traders this is a patch that has been difficult to locate ever since the late 1960’s and is one of the rarest OA event patches within Alabama. Many times this is one of the last holes filled by 135 collectors. It truly is a Pow "Wow" Patch!

1966 Area V-E Conference Patch & Camp Comer

On April 29^th 1966 the gates were flung open to Comer Scout Reservation as Arrowman from all over Alabama and Northwest Florida gathered for the 15^th Annual Area V-e Order of the Arrow Conference. The patch pictured above was issued for this annual event and was designed by Svend Damhave of Woa Cholena 322. What is of significant note about this conference is that this was the first big event held at Comer Scout Reservation since its total completion that same year. The area pulled out all the stops for the weekend as two distinguished guest were in attendance during the conference. Both Martin Mockford, who served as Executive Secretary of the Order of the Arrow, and National Committeeman Carl Marchetti were both in attendance. Marchetti would go on to serve as the Chairman of the National Order of the Arrow Committee from 1984- 1993.

258 Arrowman attended the conference making it the largest attended conference to that date. During the weekend the official ribbon cutting and dedication of Achunanchi 135’s OA Lodge was carried out.

Choccolocco "Woven" Patches - Ft. McClellan

The BSA and the United States Military have long had a strong partnership, and this partnership was very evident with the Choccolocco Council and Fort McClellan located in Anniston, Alabama. From the 1950’s through the council’s consolidation in 1998 Fort McClellan served as the primary location for the council’s Scout-O-Rama held every two years. The above pictured patches were issued for the 1959 Choccolocco Council Scout-O-Rama held May 15^th – 17^th. The event, held in conjunction with Armed Services Day, was chaired by Colonel M.F. Halloran and Lesley Stephenson, a professional within the council, served as the Director of Program. Over 2,000 Scouts and Scouters participated in the event which included individual district campfires, troop and patrol competitions, and a Scout Show on Saturday night that featured the famed WAC Band perform. 

This is the only time the Choccolocco Council used a woven patch for an event, and the difference in the two issues are unknown. The woven pattern allowed for a finer detail in the patches, and this ranks as one of the most esthetic patches ever issued by the Choccolocco Council. These patches were made by Apatche, a prevalent manufacturer of woven patches from this timeframe. Most examples of woven patches from the late 1950’s and early 1960’s came from them.

Camp Comer "Wild River" Patches

During the early 1970’s an older boy program at Comer Scout Reservation was available for Life and Eagle Scouts to participate in. Known as the Wild River Expedition, this program was geared toward whitewater adventure and outpost camping. Challenging both physically and mentally this program was a resounding success with older boys lining up to participate in the program. These treks were led by Bryan Winslow and Jeff Wells, Winslow a Military Medic was on loan from Fort McClellan during the summers to lead these expeditions.

Pictured above are the two patches that were issued for the expeditions. To this day they remain as two of the most difficult Comer patches to acquire.

The Old "Hide the O.A." in the Camporee Patch

Many camporees are held around the country each year.  Most of these are held in either the Spring or Fall with some having the involvement of the Order of the Arrow.  The O.A. has always been supportive with campfire programs; staffing; judging and other necessities at these events.  Sometimes the camporee committees vote to include the O.A. in their patch design.  Other times, the camporee committee just inserts the initials O.A. or W.W.W.  Of course these are not official Lodge issue patches, since they were never taken to the Lodge LEC for approval.  But by default they become part of the "Lodge Set" and collectors do their best to scoop these up so they have every angle covered on possible Lodge issues.

The patch pictured above is from the old Arapaho District in Decatur, AL.  The local O.A. Chapter helped put this event on and as such was honored on the patch. These make neat collectibles - Camporees which highlight O.A. functions.

Choccolocco Council 1964 Jambo Neal Slide



Well, a patch it is not.  But a great pieces of Scouting history it is.  Neal Slides were known far and wide in Scouting circles from the 1950's through the 70's.  Famous for their Bakelite slides that could be personalized for any event or theme, they were seen by many Scouts across the country. There are many collectors of Neal Slides and one of the hardest to find is the 1964 "Choccolocco 1".

On July 10^th 1964 one hundred and twenty-four Scouts and leaders from the Choccolocco Council boarded buses in route to the 1964 National Jamboree held in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. While ate the National Jamboree the contingent from Northeast Alabama participated in many Scouting activities along with 53,000 other Scouts from across the country and world. Highlights of the trip included a visit by President Lyndon Johnson.

Each member of the Choccolocco Council contingent received the above Neal Slide for the event. It was based on the design of the Choccolocco Council # 1 patch.  These slides although distinctive presented a problem for the group. Many complained of the top of the “one” poking into their throat while at the jamboree and many of these slides didn’t survive in tact for that same reason. A great piece of Choccolocco memorabilia that is rarely seen! Many thanks to Seth Hill for providing this scan and history!

Tennessee Valley Council "Man on the Moon" CSP Patch

In 1994 the Tennessee Valley Council headquartered out of Huntsville, Alabama issued a special 25th Anniversary CSP in recognition of Man Landing on the Moon in July 1969.  This had dual meaning besides it being the 25th Anniversary.  Huntsville was called "Rocket City USA" where the Redstone program had begun which led to the Saturn rockets that took us to the Moon.  Dr. Wehrner Von Braun and his team of Rocket Scientist worked at nearby Geaorge Marshal Space Flight Center to make this happen.

While many of the scientists were German, their children were becoming Americanized rapidly.  Many participated in the Boy Scout program and as such the scientiest and Dr. Von Braun were often seen at Boy Scout Expositions supporting the program and their son's.  The CSP above was sold from 1994=1997.  Here is the official Council information on the Patch:

On July 20, 1969, Eagle Scout Neil Armstrong and Edwin Aldrin, a Ternderfoot Scout, became the first men to walk on the surface of the Moon. In the next two and one-half years, ten other astronauts would also walk on the Moon. Nine of them were former Scouts. As part of the 25th Anniversary of Apollo 11, the 1994 Limited Edition Council strip, authorized by the Tennessee Valley Council Camping Committee, commemorates the six Moon landing missions and the efforts of Scouters in the Tennessee Valley who contributed to the design, development and testing of the Saturn V launch vehicles which placed the Apollo spacecraft into orbit. This full-sized, eight color strip depicts one of the lunar landing scenes. This issue sold out in May of 1997. The price for each strip was $10.00. All revenue from the sale of these strips was used for capital improvements of council camps. The total production run was 500 strips.

This Limited Edition Council Strip is not authorized for wear on the Scout uniform

Felt Crafters - Plaistow, NH

One of the most prominent makers of Boy Scout patches in the mid 1900's was Felt Crafters of Plaistow, NH.  This manufacturer was noted for making "Flocked" felt or canvas twill patches.  Their heyday ran from the late 1940's to late 1950's.  Since most of their items were made on Felt they did not stand up well to washings, sewings and moths.  So very few patches made it through as pristine mint.  They made a number of generic patches for the BSA as well as other themed patches.  Pictured above are two varieties they were known for - the generic BSA patch on the left that featured the Indian Brave.  This patch was reproduced in many varieties from Camp Patches to Camporees.  The patch on the right was a themed patch usually made for Summer Camps to award for the completion of certain activities such as Canoeing, Swimming, etc.  Most were no bigger than a half dollar, but they are some of the more collectible felt patches ever made. 

Kaskanampo 310 "Cowpile" Flaps

Kaskanampo Lodge 310 of the old Tennessee Valley Council in north Alabama issued their first flap in 1953 so that Arrowmen of the lodge would have a flap to wear to the Irvine Ranch National Jamboree in California.  The flap was based on the prevalent BSA uniform pocket flap of that time (rounded bottom).  The flap was basic and pictured the Mussel Shell totem in the center of the flap.  Unfortunately many could not tell this was a Mussell Shell.  With its wrinkled stitching designed to look like the exterior of a Mussel Shell, it ended up looking more like a "Cowpile".

From this point on Arrowmen of the Lodge affectionately referred to the F1 as the "Cowpile".  The first flap above left (F1a) was known as the Smaller White.  It could be distinguished from the F1b (ordered around 1955) on the right by its size as the F1b was known as the Larger White.  But the most telling difference was the lettering.  On the F1a, the M tags the P in Kaskanampo at the bottom.  On the F1b the M tags the P in the middle.  The F1a is the rarest patch in Lodge 310 and very few examples are known to exist - especially Mint condition flaps.  The flap may have gained an ugly name, but it is first in the hearts of 310 collectors.  It is worth noting that Arrowmen in 1957 opted to change the style of the flap to avoid comments about the "Cowpile" on their uniforms.

Camp Arrowhead 1942 - Cherokee Fifty 1st Patch?

Camp Arrowhead served the Birmingham Area Council from the early 1940's to 1971.  Located on the Coosa River near Clanton, AL it was the home of Cherokee Fifty Lodge.  Cherokee was the first lodge in the Deep South (outside of Wichita in Texas - if you include them as Deep South) and did not produce an official OA Patch until 1950.  The first patch was the R1 Cut Edge Round.  Or was it?  Many of the Lodge members were Staffers at Camp Arrowhead.  In 1942 the Camp issued for the first time a felt sewn patch made by Standard Pennant out of Pennsylvania.  Prior to this all patch has been "Flocked Pressed Hard Felt".  However this patch was different and came with an Arrow through the Arrowhead.

Old timers explained that this was given to them if they were a member of Cherokee Fifty Lodge on Staff.  The Arrow facing upward to the right was correct for the time.  So the debate would be "is this the first lodge issued patch" from Cherokee.  If it is it would be the second oldest OA issue in the State of Alabama.  Only Achunanchi 135's "Blue Owl" issued in 1940 would be older.  Whether an OA issue or not, this is one rare patch.   

Region V Arkansas - What Is It???

Here is one of my favorite patches - and least known.  What I do know is that this is a Region V Patch from Arkansas.  How do we know?  Well the Razorback is a dead giveaway from the Westark Area Council.  But there are other Arkansas scouting motifs in this patch.  Foremost is the prominent Cedar Tree which came from Camp Cedar Valley in the old East Arkansas Area Council.  I purchased this patch in Jonesboro, Arkansas near this camp.  The other motif is the old DeSoto Area Council shape of the patch.  Finally is the crossed axe & spade along with the Region V logo on the Cedar Tree.  There is no writing of any kind so one can only guess what this was for - Service work at Camp Cedar Valley during an OA event; an Arkansas Region V Encampment of these Councils (Where is Quapaw??).  So if you have any idea what this is please let me know at campmoreland@gmail.com   Great patch with no history behind it.

BSA Standard Issue Patches - "Double Fire"

In the mid 1940's the B.S.A. allowed Councils and Camps to order patches using a number of set templates.  These could be for almost any event and Patch Manufacturers such as Midwest and Greer would carry out the order requests.  One of the most popular was the "Double Fire" Patch so known for its pictured duel fires located on each side of a Tipi.  While many of these were for Camporees, many others were for other outdoor activities within a Council.

Some of the most valuable patches in all of Scouting are these simple designed patches.  There are many Camps that used this design from roughly 1945 to 1949.  Some more appeared in the 1950's, but the heyday was the mid to late 1940's.  Patches such as the Tennessee Valley Camporee and Camp Drake (Segregated Camp) are quite rare and worth a pretty penny.  So the next time you see a "Double Fire" take a moment to think about where it came from and what it represents.  What seems like a simple patch may be diamond in the rough.

Capitol Area Council BSA Patch - Austin, Texas

In the 1950's the Capitol Area Council in Austin, Texas issued a Round Patch for issue to its member.  The patch pictured an outline of the Texas State Capitol and was mostly used by Explorer Scouts from this Council.  They were especially prevalent on uniforms of Scouts attending the 1957 & 1960 National Jamborees.  Likely they were issued as a Contingent Patch for these events.  They were the forerunner of most Council Patches and are highly collectible.  Most old uniforms with these will have them on the right front pocket in the temporary patch area.  Nearly all of these uniforms have a Tonkawa 99 S1 or S2 Flap, thus allowing us to date them.  A neat Council collectible from the "Capitol" of Texas!  

Natchez Trace Trek Hiking Trail Patch

I have been out of town the last mont on Scouting and Work related trips and decided it was best to take a month off.  I am back online and will post as many neat old patches as I can each day.  Let's start out with a goodie close to my youth Scouting career...the Natchez Trace Trek Patch. In the 1960's as the Natchez Trace Parkway system was nearing completion in its route from near Columbia, Tennessee to Natchez, Mississippi the National Park Service decided to place a number of Hiking Trails or Treks along wth old suken roads of the original Trace.  The treks were popular at first but some were extremley short and others required hiking down the Trace with the traffic.  While traffic was not heavy it was a concern and after about five years the trails were shut down by the NPS that adminsters the Trace.

The above patch is based on the Trace logo which only changed with the word "Trek" taking the place of "Parkway".  It features the old Postal Rider as he makes his way from Nashville to Natchez in the early 1800's.  This patch was thought be be easy to find for Trail collectors.  It has been anything but.  Since so few hikes hit the Trek, the patches were never really distributed.  So to have one is a real treat.  As a side note I received mine from an old Ranger near the Colbert County / Tennessee River stop.  My troop had camped on the Lauderdale County side of the Trace around 1975.  We hiked across the Tennessee River Bridge to the Colbert Park and returned to our campsite.  The day was fairly warm and it was in the winter timeframe.  That night as we slept the temperatures dropped and when we woke up the next morning, there was six inches of snow on the ground and bitterly cold.  The only time this old Alabama Scout ever camped in the snow.  That patch brings back memories of that event.  I have held on to it ever since.

Standard Pennant - Unami / T.I.C.

Pictured above are more examples of the Standard Pennant Company in Big Run, PA.  Unami Lodge and Treasure Island have used this company extensively over the years.  The Chenilles pictured are just a few of the items produced by this company for Scouting which had long reaching effects on future patch productions.  It is likely that Standard did most of the early Unami patches as well as many surrounding lodges in the Pennsylvania area.

Noted for their detail and quality these patches hold their own against most all competitors in the Chenille field. Many of the old Summer Camp Pennants you see from the 1930's to 1960's came via Standard.  A great collectible unto itself, the company has produced many high quality and expensive items over the years. 

Region 7 Northern Wisconsin Canoe Base "Hat Diamond"

In Northern Wisconsin olde Region 7 of the BSA operated a Canoe Base.  The base was noted for for its distinctive logo which pictured a Pine / Spruce tree superimposed over a Canoe with crossed Paddles.  These patches have become very collectible with the closure of the base and more emphasis placed on the nearlby Norther Tier High Adventure Bases in the Boundary Waters.  Yet these patches have held their own because of the good looks and color scheme. The Staff Hat Diamond pictured above is one of the harder to get patches.  Made by Midwest Embroidery out of Chicago most of these were sewn to caps, to find a loose one is a treat.  Great looking Base Patch!

1946 Region V - "Wings Over Dixie" Felt

In 1946 the Air Scout program in the United States was at its zenith.  With the end of World War II and aviation interest at its peak, the Air Scouting movement was popular around the country.  Most Regions sponsored events for Air Scouts / Explorers.  These were usually held at Air Force Bases or Naval Air Stations.  One of the most popular was the early "Wings over Dixie" sponsored by Region V of the BSA.  This event went on for about five years and originally started in 1946 at Keesler Air Force Base near Biloxi, Mississippi.

The felt patch pictured above is one of the rarest Region V Patches ever produced.  The event had no more than 200 participants due to the distance many would have to travel to get there.  In addition with the patches being flocked felt they simply did not stand up well to time, washings and moths.  Very few have survived.  They recall an era when the U.S. was still in the euphoria of the World War victory and along with that the desire for a lot of youth to participate in military type activities. Being able to attend an Air Encampment and witness firsthand WWII aircraft was a big deal for many Air Scouts / Explorers.  The patch above became a source of great pride upon its awarding.  A great piece of Scouting history if you are lucky enough to find or own one.

Region V 1955 World Jamboree Neckerchief

Canada hosted the 1955 World Jamboree and due to its proximity the BSA sent a large contingent to the event.  As in the past the Troops were divided into Regions.  Some Regions produced special patches and others came up with unique items.  Region V (composed of Scouts from Alabama, Tennessee, Mississippi, Louisiana and Arkansas) sent their scouts with a special "8th World Jamboree" Neckerchief.  The above mint Necker was from the Phil Partlett Memorial Scout Auction of the West Los Angeles Area Council.

A unique collectible from Region V that ranks up with the 1960 Jamboree Region V Advenure Award Rocker.  

Blue Beaver Trail - Lookout Mountain, TN

Many years ago I hiked this trail as a Scout in the heat of July.  The Trail was founded by my Scoutmaster's father, Mr. Gutav "Gus" Geiger of Signal Mountain, TN.  When we went to hike the trail we camped out at Mr. Geiger's home.  At the time I was the Senior Patrol Leader of our Troop (284 in Florence, AL).  In prepping for the hike we looked at the map and I remember Mr. Geiger (my Scoutmaster and his father) telling me to look carefully at it.  The trail started at the old Nature Center and meandered up the side of Lookout Mountain.  Needless to say no one seemed excited to hike this in the heat.  So I looked at the map carefully and realized there were no questions to answers - only points on the trail to shoot azimuths and go from there.  Quickly realizing I could start at the top of the Mountain and shoot reverse azimuth's I would accomplish the goal of hiking the trail.  So that is what we did much to the delight of the Geiger men.  So fast were we on the hike that we extended it out another 6-7 miles to cover the overlying and longer Nolichucky Jack Trail.

The patch pictured above was designed by Mr. Gus Geiger and shows a Union "Beaver" aiming his Cannon at Lookout Mountain.  Gus had shared this design with Mr. Ken Humphreys of Shiloh Military Trails fame, who commented in a letter to Gus that "this is the best looking trail patch I have ever seen".  The originals were a swiss loom patch, colorful and hard to earn.  To many Scouts of the Deep South the Blue Beaver Trail was a real treat to hike and even greater thrill to complete - especially when you received this beautiful patch.  The trail is still active to this day.  Check it out! 

Charles L. Sommers Wilderness Canoe Base

Just back from the Northern Tier where the weather was perfect and we had no rain for over a week.  We will share one of the first C.L. Sommers Participant Patches from the base.  Ely and the boundary Waters are pristine and a rare treat.  Much like some of the earlier Region X and C.L. Sommers Participant Patches.  These were only awarded to those completing the trek.  After my experience, I may take up collecting these unique patches from our oldest High Adventure Base.

Northern Tier - Region Ten Felt Patch

Pictured above is the first Region Ten Wilderness Canoe Trail Patch from Northern Tier.  This was a felt patch and pictured a canoeing Indian with no eyes.  Great collectible patch.  Thought I would put this out here as the last post for a couple of weeks as I will be canoeing the Northern Tier.  "Hol-ry"!

Cowikee Lodge 224 Vigil Pin & Arrow

Cowikee Lodge 224 of Dothan, AL was blessed with the good fortune of having Mr. Gene Ramage as their first Vigil Honoree.  He kept his Vigil at the 1952 Va Conference and was given most appropriately the name "First in the Dance" as 224's first Vigil.  From here he would go on to a long and rewarding service to his Lodge, Council, Camp and Region.  Among the Scouts he mentored were DSA Awardee Morgan Weed who was Killed in Action in Cambodia, May 1970 and his friend Frank Gainess III.  Morgan kept his Vigil in July 1961 and was known as "In The Woods". In October Frank kept his Vigil at the Boy Scout Reservation (later Camp Alaflo) and was known as "In The Pines".  Thus was their connection to one another in the Lodge, as friends and followers of Gene Ramage.

Gene decided sometime in the late 1950's or 1960 to start a tradition of presenting a specially made Vigil Pin of Cross Calumets to each Vigil Honoree.  The Pin was made by a local jeweler in Dothan, AL and had a small chain with a clasped Arrow attached.  On the reverse of the Vigil Trianagle was the Vigil Honoree's name.  The above pictured Pin belongs to Mr. Frank Gaines III and was exactly like those of other 1960's Honorees.  Sometime in the mid to late 1960's this tradition ceased so taking into account all who kept their Vigil with Cowikee during this time there is likely less than 50 of these Pins.  Making it as valuable or more so than most Caldwell OA Pins from the 1920's - 40's.  And you thought a "Three Cloud" Patch was rare!

Camp Ki-Ro-Li - Standard Pennant

In the early 1900's Standard Pennant of Big Run, PA became famous for their Felt & Leather work.  They were known to make many early Boy Scout items from Pennants (thus the name) to Patches to Leather Rounds.  They also did Chenilles for all types of organizations.  They were the gold standard by which all companies measured themselves.  Unami Lodge and the Philadelphia Area Council used them.  Many Treasure Island Camp items came from Standard.  Their work was superior in quality and held up quite well - even felt patches.

The above patch is an example of their work.  This is the Camp Ki-Ro-Li Arrowhead Felt from the 1930's.  There were likely multiple Camp Ki-Ro-Li's, but this one is believed to be from the Ouachita Valley Council in Louisiana.  The Camp got it's name from the three major benefactors of the Camp - Kiwanis Club; Rotary Club & Lions Club (much like an earlier Standard Patch on this blog - Camp Rotex).  It is a very rare patch and as you can see, Standard felt good about their products - "If it is made of felt or leather 'WE MAKE IT".  If you have one of these then you will understand the quality and detail of this age gone by.

Region V Scouter Training Award

Here is a really interesting patch from the 1950's.  The Region V Scouter Training Award Patch had the roman numerals I - VIII surrounding the patch.  They appeared to be Rockers that could be cut-off and earned by each level.  It was less cost prohibitive to have the entire patch made with the Rockers sewn in, thus some came complete as the one above.  I have not really been able to get a read on what the Patch was presented for or what the I - VIII represent (levels of training you would assume).  Yet it is still one of the harder to find Region V patches - especially Mint & in tact.  If anyone has any ideas on what these were present for please e-mail me and let us all know.

Grimes Canoe Base - Swiss Loom Patch & Punch Card Drawing

In the days before digital imaging and computer graphics the design for patches had to be drawn by hand.  These images were usually converted onto sheets of paper in a 6:1 Drawing to Patch Size scale.  The person doing the art set it up so the Swiss Loom Embroidery Machine would know exactly what the customer wanted.  The above example is one of the last Swiss Loom patches before the computer / digitized age took over.  This is from 1989 and was the Wa-Hi-Nasa Lodge 111 Fall Fellowship Patch from Grimes Canoe Base.  Swiss Loom embroidering is very thick as the layers are laid down by each set of needles.  As more detail is added a layered look occurs giving the patch a thick and expensive feel as compared with todays more flimsy computer generated patches (though these patches have more detail they lack the character of the Swiss Loom style).  


Below is an outline of how this worked.  1) After a color image has been approved by the customer the badge design is drawn on to tracing paper at a 6:1 scale.  2)  The lines of the design are perforated with small holes . 3) This paper is then placed onto the threading machine as a Scan Card so that the appropriate color threading is used on the surface which penetrates the perforations and leaves the outline of the design on the cloth. 4) A large Loom Machine like a Tajima is then set up to process the image from the Scan Card in multiples of 20, 50, etc depending on the size of the machine. The lines and dots on the Scan Card are only a guide for the embroidering of the image.  A look back at a bygone era.

Camp Rotary - Birthplace of Cowikee 224

Pictured above is the last Summer Camp issued patch from the old Southeast Alabama Council.  Camp Rotary is located just north of  Eufuala, AL on Cowikee Creek that feeds into the Chattahoochee River.  The Camp began operations in the 1920's and served as the Summer Camp home for Southeast Alabama up until 1957.  In 1958, the Council moved Summer Camp to their new location "The Boy Scout Reservation" later to be called Camp Alaflo (Council would change name to Alabama-Florida Council when part of the FL Panhandle came on board) near Enterprise, AL.

Camp Rotary items are relatively hard to find due to limited camp weeks during the summer.  Also many of their early patches were made of felt and they simply did not hold up well to washing, moths and aging.  But Camp Rotary holds greater significance in that it was here that the Cowikee Lodge got its namesake and developed into one of the stronger OA Lodges in the Southeast.  Camp Rotary still exists to this day as a primitive camp, so check it out if you can.  You are a lucky Scout if you have one of these patches.

Camp Pushmataha

The Mobile Area Council of south Alabama once used Camp Pushmataha, near Citronelle, AL as the Council's Summer Camp and OA Lodge Home.  It served in this capacity up until around 1966-67 when the new Camp Maubila was opened for use.  Pushmataha was named after the Choctaw Chief Pushmataha and was home to many OA events over the years.  The 1955 Va Conference was held here having then National Chairman H. Lloyd Nelson in attendance.  Mr. Nelson would pass away in late 1955 making this his last true OA function to attend.  The world renowned & Pulitzer Prize winning Biologist & Eagle Scout Dr. E.O. Wilson who serves on staff at Harvard University, once attended camp here and served on the Nature Staff - thus developing his love of biology and his later fascination and study of Ants.

The patch pictured above is from the late 1940's to early 1950's.  It cam with a presewn rocker where additional years of attendance could be added.  Though this design was used with other camps (most notably Camp Old Indian in South Carolina) it is still highly sought after since Camp usually ran only three weeks and very few of these were issued.  Another prize Camp patch if you are lucky enough to find it.  The Camp ceased functions in 2010 after being sold.  The Mobile Area Council purchased new property near Bay Minette, AL to replace it - called Camp Pinetreat.  

Kaskanampo 310 Double Shell Prototype Flap

Around 1974 Kaskanampo Lodge moved away from the S4 Perriwinkle Flap (had the wrong shell for the Totem and was known as the "Mistake") to the S5 "Double Shell".  This flap went back to the historic Mussell Shell Totem of the Lodge.  However it was not as clear to some as the older F2's - S1's, S2's & S3's.  Those Flaps had Shells that looked more like Hornet's Nests.  The new S5's looked better but almost resembled a Tornado.  I remember this vividly as this was the Flap I received at my Ordeal in 1974.

The Flap above is the prototype of the Double Shell.  Kaskanampo was noted for its Red bordered and Blue lettering. In this case the manufacturer changed the lettering to Golden Yellow and the border to a Spruce Green.  Needless to say, the Proto Flap turned out to be better looking than the actual Double Shell which kept the traditional Red Border and Blue Lettering.  It is a unique piece in 310 lore.  Likely only two were made and they were rejected by the Lodge / Council.  One of the best looking Flaps never made!

Buckskin Lodge 412 Treasure Island Camp Patch

Bucksin Lodge is located in the Nassau County area of New York.  Noted for their OA Flaps that rarely change, they did at one time host a Spring Fellowship at the birthplace of the Order of the Arrow - Treasure Island Camp.  The event held in 1983 required the lodge to go to the Island Camp in the middle of the Delaware River.  It is a very difficult to find Lodge and T.I. collectible.  While there is nothing fancy about the patch, it is unique in that the lodge traveled some distance to host the event there and celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the Camp.

Shiloh Centennial Trail - Civil War

In 1960 Ken Humphreys of Troop 343 in Memphis, Tennessee pioneered a hiking instituation that exists to this day.  He along with the Scouts and Leaders of his troop created a number of Boy Scout Hiking Trails that encompassed the Shiloh National Military Park.  Today the site is mecca for Scouting hikers from all over the Southeast and Midwest.  It is the best marked battlefield of the Civil War and with its easy terrain it is a good but not overwhelming hike.

In 1962 Scouts that hiked Military Trail #1 were entitled to purchase a special Centennial Trail Patch (pictured above).  This was a classic that started a trend for each successive Anniversary of the Battle or for other events such as the Bicentennial or National Park Service Centennial.  Mr. Humphreys based his design on the Shiloh Military Park Museum Patch.  It was the same shape and had the distinctive Confederate battle Flag on it.  The Museum patch was twill and Mr. Humphreys wanted something special for his hikers.  So a very nice deeply Swiss Embroidered Patch was made.  To this day it is the standard hiking patch by which others are compared.  Only his friend Gus Geiger's Blue Beaver Trail on Lookout Mountain was more distinctive.  But this one set the tone and is highly desired by Trail Patch and Shiloh Collectors.   

Aracoma Lodge N1 Neckerchief

From 1957-59, Aracoma Lodge of the Black Warrior Council (Tuscaloosa, AL) issued their first Neckerchief.  The N1 was a very good looking Necker that pictured the lodges totem, the Corn Stalk and was red silk screened on white cotton with Green Silkish piping.  Only 100 of these Neckers were ever issued and they were 1 per Life for Brotherhood Members.  Next to the Cherokee 50 N0.5 this is easily the most difficult and collectible Neckerchief of the Order in Alabama.  As far as numbers go less than five of these are still known to exist.  This particular Neckerchief belonged to Tom Hodges who was a member of Kaskanampo Lodge 310, but who attended the University of Alabama at the time.  Upon receiving this at Camp Horne he promptly put it in a box where it remained for 50 years.  Today it is back with Lodge 481.

A truly unique and rarely seen Neckerchief.  Simplistic in nature and design but appealing to the eye.

Shiloh Military Trail Anniversary Hike Patches

Most Scouts in the South are familiar with Shiloh National Military Park.  They have about eight trails that encompass the battlefield that range from 3 miles up to 20 miles.  Scouts can earn a myriad of patches and medals for completing these hikes.  Started in 1960 by Troop 343 Scoutmaster Ken Humphreys of Memphis, TN, the trails have continued to be well hiked and a desitination for many generations of Scouts and Leaders.  This is mainly due to the most well marked National Military Battlefieldl of the Civil War and a great organization handling the Trails.

One of the rarer patches to earn is the Anniversary Hike Patch. This is awarded to Scouts who complete the hike on the actual days of the battle - April 6 or 7.  This usually happens when the the 6 & 7 fall on a weekend date.  To date about 20 variations of the above patch have been issued.  They are hard to get and highly prized.  With the Sesqucentennial of the Civil War and the upcoming anniversary at Shiloh in 2012, these will be highly sough after items.  A great mix of Scouting and American History. 

1950's Conservation Patch

In the 1950's Boy Scouts started conducting more and more conservation projects within their Councils.  In order to drive these initiatives, the local Councils would create special Conservation Camps or Conserve-O-Rees.  Much like Camporees these were weekend events that concentrated on the aspects of conservation as it was known then (washout breaks, trenching tents, etc).  Many of the patches of that era were made of felt like the patch above.  Few survived in Mint condition and were not highly collected.

Today a new market has sprung up for all kinds of Conservation related items from the BSA.  There is a plethora of items related to Conservation events that can keep any collector digging and searching endlessly for those special patches.  Many of the most desired patches came from Regions, Nation Jamborees and Philmont.  Prices on these items have been high due to their relative rarity.  A really neat niche item to collect.  

1937 National Jamboree Souvenir Pin

In 1937, the Boy Scouts of America held their first National Jamboree in Washington, DC.  The event was supposed to have occured on the 25th Anniversary of Scouting in 1935 but was postponed due to a Polio epidemic.  The 1937 Jamboree was held in early July so some of the Scouts and Leaders attending this event could make the World Jamboree in August across the pond in the Netherlands.  There were many displays at the Jambo and the event was held on the Mall with the Washington  Monument as a centerpiece to the Arena Shows.

The Pin shown above, while not a patch, was still a collectible item that most Scouts could pick up at the event.  This particular medallion pin shows the 1937 Jamboree Logo and had a clasp back so it could be pinned to a uniform or Sash.  This particular pin belonged to Life scout Jimmie DiRago who attended the Jamboree with the Tennessee Valley Council Contingent.  Jimmie later would serve as a Gunner on a Mid Range Bomber during World War II.  he was shot down over Germany in the latter days of the war was declared Missing in Action.  His body was never found.  A monument now exists on the Waterfront of Camp Westmoreland where he served as the Camp Bugler during the 1930's.

Firecrafters Felt Patch - Indiana

One of the earliest Camp Honor Societies was the Firecrafters which started at Camp Chank-Tun-Un-Gi in the Central Indiana Council.  The system was the brainchild of Council Executive Francis Belzer who wanted it to be a method by which Scouts would continue coming to Camp each successive year.  It worked much like the Order of the Arrow - you had levels of achievement based on Camp Proficiencies achieved.  This originally came from Dan Beard's Culver Woodcraft Camp or Academy in northern Indiana.  Uncle Dan Beard rewarded his campers' achievements with a series of three ranks: Notcher (bronze), Midnotcher (silver), and Topnotcher (gold), each symbolized by a patch of appropriate color having a beaver within a stylized "C" for Culver.

Using Berard's model, Belzer designed the camp rank emblems starting with the Culver "C" for the Camper rank. The original patches were cut from felt and hand-sewn by 'Aunt Stella' Doeppers, who worked at the Council office.  In the early days, when a Scout became a Camper, he received a khaki vest with the Camper "C" emblem sewn on it. When he became Woodsman, a yellow teepee was added to the original patch. When he became a Firecrafter, he received a whole new patch including the red fire.  A final honor was created that had to be awarded - not earned.  It was called the Minisino - a recognition and honor of one who has made outstanding contributions to Scouting and Firecrafter and who can be expected to continue his contributions.  Minisino is a Miami Indian word meaning "tried and proven".

Disaster Recovery - Alabama Tornadoes 2011

I apologize for not posting any new updates on "This Old Boy Scout patch" for the past week, but I have been busy working on Tornado Clean-Up here in Alabama.  Has not left too much time for making updates to the site.  However, we are now freed up a little and I will try to get back in rhythm with "Old Patches" from the past.

Here is a classic from the 1980's.  This patch comes from the West Coast (California to be exact) and is awarded to Boy Scouts who complete Disaster Conservation Projects.  The Tornadoes here in Alabama reminded me of this one from my collection.  It shows the before and after of what land can look like when cared for or overrun by natural forces or manmade disasters.  Think about your environment and control the things you have control over.  Pray for those who need assistance all across the South and do your best to assist those when called upon.  This patch should remind us of what is important as Scouts!

Camp Drake - Segregated Camp

From the mid 1940's to 1964 a number of Boy Scout Camps in the Southern United States were segregated.  One of these was Camp Drake of the Tennessee Valley Council.  It was located on the Tennessee River near Rogersville, Alabama.  It was named for its benefactor Dr. Joseph F. Drake, the 4th President of Alabama A & M University from 1927-62.  Summer camp was held here for African-American Scouts each year for one week.  All of the other TVC Scouts attended Camp Westmoreland. Drake however was used by all White Troops and the camp was no stranger to the Order of the Arrow.  Many Scouts from the Camp were tapped out into Kaskanampo Lodge 310.  The Camp was unique in that it was segregated but fell in a mostly cosmopolitan type Council.  Many members of the TVC Scouting program were from out of state - working mostly in the fledgling Aerospace Industry of the Rocket City - Huntsville, AL.  Therefore, there was hardly any friction with Scouts who attended Drake or other TVC events. 

The patches pictured above are the 1948-52 "Campfire" patch and the later "Brave" patch that was used up until 1964.  These patches are very rare as camp ran only for one week and few of these were issued.  With the passage of the Civil Rights Act in 1965, Camp Westmoreland was intergrated and Camp Drake began a slow decline of non use until which time it became part of Joe Wheeler State Park.

Choccolocco "No. 1" Patch

Choccolocco Council was headquartered in Anniston, Alabama and basically composed the upper NE quadrant of the state.  The Council went by its assigned number by the BSA National Office - Council 001.  Basically this was based early on from the alpha sequence of states and the city headquarters - thus Anniston, AL was listed first or given the moniker Council "No. 1".  Never ashamed to take advantage of things it received, the Council used the "1" to its benefit in everything it did.

The patch pictured above is one of three that were likely made by the Council with the large "No. 1".  They also had the FDL and Heart of Dixie slogan for the State of Alabama.  This is the green bordered cut edge version of the patch.  There were two other blue edge versions that appeared.  In 1999, Choccolocco merged with Birmingham Area Council #6 amd Tennessee Valley Council #659 to form the Greater Alabama Council now headquartered out of Birmingham. The new Council decided to keep the Council #1 designation which went with the OA Lodge number 50.  Later when the National OA decided to limit the use of Lodge numbers, Coosa Lodge would use G.A.C. #1 with their name.  Of course not to be confused with the Mother Lodge - Unami One.

1960 Jamboree OA Service Troop Armband

In 1960 the Boy Scouts celebrated the Golden Jubilee by holding one of its largest Jamborees ever at Colorado Springs, CO.  56,377 Scouts attended this Jamboree making it the single most attended Scouting event in the United States (though the 1973 Jamboree had 72,000 but in two sites - Idaho & Pennsylvania).  With a crowd so large, there is an extreme need for Staff and "Service Personnel".  The Order of the Arrow contributed greatly to this event.   The Order of the Arrow Service Corps is the oft-unseen, behind-the-scenes crew responsible for picking up trash after the arena shows, getting water out to thirsty troops and doing just about anything that needs to be done. Before the jamboree, the Arrowmen set up many things being taken for granted and enjoyed by Scouts and Scouters at the jamboree, such as the shelters, displays and kiosks.

 The OA has provided service troops since the 1950 National Jamboree. These early troops were issued armbands instead of flaps at the 1950, 1953, 1957, 1960, 1964, and 1973 Jamborees.  The Armband pictured above is one of the hardest to collect in this series.  It was not elaborate in design but was highly coveted by those wearing them.  They represented a select cadre of Arrowmen who could get the job done while others enjoyed the activities related to the Jamboree.  Any Armband from 1950 to 1973 are great collectibles, none moreso than the 1960 Jubilee Jamboree Armband.

Camp Rotex 1924 Felt

Boy Scouting began in 1912 in Florence, Alabama.  The first troop chartered to the area was not a BSA unit, but instead was affiliated with British Scouting.  By 1914 the BSA had over three troops in the area and the movement began to thrive.  Local Civic Groups such as Kiwanis, Rotary and the Exchange Club saw the benefit of Scouting and wanted to secure a Summer Camp facility for the Scouts.  So in 1923, the Florence Rotary and Exchange Clubs decided to go in as partners and sponsor the local camp.  Located on Waterloo & Wildwood Park Roads near Cypress Creek, the camp came alive in 1924.

The Exchange Club did a lot of the infrastructure work to get the Camp ready. So much so they practically ran out of money. The Rotary Club had to step in to finish things and in turn ordered the first Camp Patch in Alabama for the Scouts.  The 1924 Camp Rotex patch picured was made by Standard Pennant of Big Run, PA and was a sewn Golden Yellow and Dark Royal Blue.  The camp took its name from the combination of Rotary and Exchange - thus Ro-Tex.  Since the Florence Rotary Club ordered the patches, they made sure they had their logo - the Rotary Cog along with the word "Rotary" and the City.  This is easily the most difficult to find Scout Camp patch in Alabama and likely the South.  This particular patch belonged to Mr. Alfred McCroskey, Sr. who served for many years as the Eaglemaster in Florence.  I was given this patch after his passing in 2007 some 31 years after he chaired my Eagle Scout Board of Review.  A great keepsake!

Talidandaganu Lodge "Chief John Ross Canoe Trek"

In the late 1960's to early 70's, Talidandaganu Lodge 293 of the Cherokee Area Council in Chattanooga, Tennessee sponsored a 15 mile Canoe Trek that ran from near Trenton, GA down Lookout Creek.  The Trek ran north from Georgia parallel and to the west of Lookout Mountain.  It ended at the mouth of the Creek which ran into the Tennessee River near Mocassin Bend.  While the Trek did not last long, it was a fun trip for Scouts.  Even more fun was the patch issued by the Lodge for completing the Trek.  A beautiful swiss fully embroidered patch. But the Trek did not last long as many Scouts in the area opted to hike the Blue Beaver Trail or the Nolichucky Jack Trail up Lookout Mountain instead.  So the Chief John Ross Trek was never fully utilized.  However, the short lived Trek did create one of the most collectible O.A. Lodge patches ever - not bad when they could be purchased for $1 each upon completion.  This patch is treasured by Lodge 293 members and is hard to find.  It is also one of the Crown Jewels of any Trail / Trek Patch collection.  For information on the patch and Lodge 293 go to:  http://www.tali293.org/patch30.htm

Treasure Island Camp "Staff 1951 Pie"

Treasure Island Scout Camp is located north of Philadelphia, PA and is considered by many to be the oldest Boy Scout Camp in the United States (though Camps Owasippe & Teetonkah claim the title). Located in the middle of the Delaware River, the Camp was in operation from 1913 to 2008.  Devastating floods and changes that saw the Delaware become a national scenic river sealed the fate of the Camp, bringing about its closing as a Summer Camp.  It is best known in Scouting lore as the birthplace of the Order of the Arrow.  Here in 1915, Dr. E. Urner Goodman, Camp Director and his Assistant Carroll Edson created the O.A. as a camping Honor Society.  It has grown into the largest organization within Scouting and sets the example for for Service Above Self to this day.

The patch pictured above was the famous 1951 T.I. Staff Pie Patch.  It was presented to T.I. Staffers as both a patch and sewn on a Purple Silk Neckerchief with Red Piping.  Needless to say, it is considered the most beautiful patch ever issued by the Camp.  It contained the distinctive "Treasure Island Tree" and the old TIC logo that was used on the initial Felt Treasure Isalnd Camp patches of the early 1920's.  Since it was a Staff patch it is a most difficult item to locate.  This particular patch belonged to a Staffer who was a friend of H. Lloyd Nelson, the 1925 Unami Chief.  He presented this patch to him in fond memory of Mr. Nelson's time as a Staffer at T.I. in the early 1920's. Mr. Nelson later became the National Chief and Chairman of the O.A. prior to his untimely death in 1955.

Warpath Ridge Scout Trail

In the late 1960's a local Explorer Post / Troop in the Huntsville, Alabama area put together a hiking trail that encompassed Monte Sano State Park.  The park overlooked the City of Huntsville and is a local recreational destination for people living in the area.  When put together, the Trail circumvented the entire park bringing the hike to between 9-10 miles.  It was a short-lived trail as were other local hikes - Space Walk Trail & the  Big Springs Trail.

This patch was unique for not only its Arrowhead shape and button loop attachment (most were sewn out of the patch during this time) but for the Arrowhead that was glued to the center portion of the patch.  This became a very coveted Trail Patch to obtain or earn.  Due to its short life, not many of these patches made it out to the Scouts.  Many were destroyed by Scouts who wanted to take the Arrowheads off.  They are to this day one of the most unique Trail Patches ever produced and equally as hard to find.

1960 Jubilee Jamboree "Adventure Award"

1n 1960, the 5th National Jamboree was held at Colorado Springs, CO.  The event celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the BSA with a scenic view of Pikes Peak just to the West.  As with other Jamborees, the Troops were divided into Regions.  Each Region camped together and did various events with friends and fellow Troop members.  One of the unique opportunities offered at the Jubilee Jamboree was the chance to complete a series of events at the Jamboree and earn the coveted "Adventure Award".  Upon completion, Scouts were awarded a certificate stating they had earned the award at the Jamboree.

Most other Regions created special Jamboree patches for the event.  Region V decided to take another approach.  Instead of a Region Patch, they created an "Adventure Award" Rocker that went underneath the Julbilee Jamboree Patch.  It was designed to spur Scouts in this Region to complete the Award at a higher percentage of Scouts from other Regions.  The golden twill patch had the Region V Shield and V with Arrow through it.  This is one very had to find patch - especially in Mint condition, as most Scouts earning it received one and immediately sewed the patch underneath their Jambo Patch.  Scouts from other Regions were only given the certificate of completion while Region V Scouts came away with a highly prozed collectible.   

1956 Region V Explorer Air Encampment - Memphis NAS

In the late 1940's to 1960's, Exploring Scouts participated in Regional Encampments.  Usually these were held at Air Force Bases or Naval Air Stations. The genesis was likely the Air Scout program of the 1940's and it evolved into a Senior Scouting event for Explorers.  The patch shown above is from the 1956 Explorer Encampment held at the Memphis or Millington Naval Air Station just north of Memphis.  Scouts from Region V (Alabama, Tennessee, Mississippi, Louisana and Arkansas) participated.  The patch pictures the U.S. Navy's newest jet - the Grumman U.S.S. Intrepid F9F-8 Cougar VF-61.

Unique to this event held in early 1956 was the fact that there were Air demonstrations; displays and talent shows.  At the annual talent show on Saturday evening legend has it that Elvis Presley himself made a surprise appearance for the Scouts.  Presley was just making it big and was about to hit the top of the charts with "Heartbreak Hotel" after moving over to RCA Records.  Many scouts claim he was there though no photos officially exist of the visit. Even without this, the above patch is one of the most highly collectible Air Encampment Patches ever made due to the Region identification, location of the event, possible guest and the pictured new F9F - 8 Cougar.  You are a lucky Scout if you have this one in your collection.

Region V Acorn Felt

In 1936 the Boys Scouts of America adopted a new program under the direction of Chief Scout Excecutive Dr. James E. West and BSA President Walter Head.  The program was called the "President Walter W. Head Acorn Award".  The award was designed to get Scouts and Leaders to expand Scouting in their communities.  The symbolism of the Acorn came to Dr. West from a conversation he had with Lord Baden-Powell.  Basically it revolved around how a small acorn planted at Brownsea Island in 1907 would 29 years later result in a large Oak Tree.  BSA President Walter W. Head (who founded American General Life) was asked to promote this on behalf of the BSA.  Pins and Ribbons were awarded to Units and Scouts who met the goals set.

Region V of the BSA which was composed of the Deep South States of Alabama, Tennessee, Mississippi, Louisiana and Arkansas (part of NW Florida and NW Georgia were also in the Region), decided to incorporate this into their Region Felt patch.  Introduced sometime in the late 1930's, it was mostly a Professional Scout patch. It did not hold up well to the weather, washings and moths - so few made it to today as Mint!  These are assumed to have been made by Standard Pennant in Pennsylvania. In the 1940's the Acorn was replaced with the Roman Numeral V Felt which later gave way to the Red, White & Blue Region V Shield Patch.  Most Region V patches are very collectible, none moreso than the "Acorn Felt".     

1960 Jubilee Scout-O-Rama

In 1960 the Boy Scouts of America celebrated their Golden Anniversary or "Jubilee".  That year saw a myriad of patches which were designed identical to one another.  They included the 1960 National Jamboree; Philmont Scout Ranch; Jubilee Camporee; Schiff Scout Reservation; Cub Scout Jubilee & Jubilee Field Day.  All of these were Golden Yellow twill with Red embroidery.  While like most patches of the time, simplistic, these patches jumped out at you and were considered not only good looking but a great collectible that have held their value to this day.

The only exception to the above patches was the one pictured above - the "White" Twill Jubilee Scout-O-Rama.  No one is really sure why these ended up White as opposed to the other patches for the Golden Jubilee, but they became even more sought out than the other patches because they were different.  As far as Jamborees go, this patch design is considered by collectors to be the best of all Jamborees - though many feel the 1969 Jamboree Deer Patch was perfection.  Regardless, these patches from our 50th Anniversary are still keepers and have great eye appeal and collectibility.  For more information on these patches go to  http://www.d1053375.domain.com/1960.html