100 Years of Scouting in Kenilworth
Artie Bergman Jr. and Charlie Barnes, c. 1970, KHS
An exhibit made in collaboration with Kenilworth’s Troop 13 Scouts to commemorate their 100th anniversary in 2019.
The exhibit explores the three different eras that defined Troop 13 throughout its long and rich history. Prior to the establishment of the Boy Scouts, there was the Kenilworth Cadets, which similarly acted as an organization for boys to learn skills like camping and self-discipline, but also military drills.
The first era of Scouting in Kenilworth, known as the Townley Era, saw more than just the development of Troop 13, it also shaped and strengthened the morals, principles, and sense of camaraderie held by the boys of the village. Troop 13 in Kenilworth was formed in 1919 under its first scoutmaster Carl Keith. It was Carl’s son and scout, Elbridge, who wrote to the National Scout Headquarters in New York City to officially establish the Scout Troop in Kenilworth. Carl Keith only served as scoutmaster for two years until he was succeeded by Roy Jarrett and later Bob Townley in 1922 who would remain scoutmaster for the next 33 years, inspiring generations of Kenilworth’s youth.
The second era primarily led by two scoutmasters, Artie Bergman and Charlie Barnes, both were scouts under Townley and eventually assistant scoutmasters as well. During their era Troop 13 saw even more growth, with the development of the Explorers and Cub scouts. More community oriented projects and fundraisers, including the popular annual Pancake Breakfast event.
The third, Current Era, has been led by the mentees of Artie and Charlie and have had many reasons to celebrate as the honors of Troop 13 continue to grow, the 100th anniversary being least among the great things Troop 13 scouts and scout leaders continue to do for their community.
The Boy Scouts Exhibit was displayed from May 2019 – November 2019