Making history: Local girls join Boy Scouts of America’s Scouts BSA

History was made in Eagle Grove this past Friday evening, Feb. 1, 2019. Emily Dawson, Grace Ubben, Renee Withers, and Katelynn Barron became the first girls to join Boy Scouts of America’s Scouts BSA program (previously known as the Boy Scouts). Friday marked the first day in the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) 100+ year history that girls ages 11 - 17 were allowed to join their scouting program, even allowing them to earn the prestigious title of Eagle Scout.

Scouts BSA will use the same curriculum as the Boy Scouts program, earn the same badges, ranks... but while it welcomes both boys and girls, it will not be a co-ed group. Troops will be single-gender and meet independently “because the BSA recognizes and celebrates that boys and girls develop differently, and there are times that single-gender learning is the most appropriate.”

Eagle Grove’s BSA Troop 1059 is proudly sponsored by the Eagle Grove Lion’s Club. According to Jenni Stevenson, District Executive of the BSA Winnebago Council, Eagle Grove is the first girls Troop to be established in the 17 counties served by the District, but more are forming.

This historic change came after years of request from family members who wanted the same opportunities for their daughters as they did for their sons.

“The experiences and skills that Scouting provides are incredibly valuable to all youth - not just boys,” said Jenni Stevenson. “I’m honored to help offer this opportunity to the girls and young women in our communities.”

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