Every year on 22nd February, Scouts around the world celebrate Founder’s Day, a time to reflect on the life and vision of Robert Baden-Powell and to celebrate how Scouting has grown from a small experiment into a worldwide movement.
Founder’s Day is more than a birthday remembrance. It is a celebration of Scouting’s journey, its traditions, its evolution, and the millions of young people who continue to live by the Scout Promise and Law.
As we celebrate Scouting history, we also celebrate how the movement has adapted to meet the needs of each new generation, while staying true to its core values of service, leadership, friendship, and adventure.
Here is a brief History of Scouting:
The Beginning: A camp that changed the world (1907)
Scouting began in 1907 when Baden-Powell organised an experimental camp on Brownsea Island. Twenty boys from different backgrounds came together to test a new approach to youth development—learning through outdoor adventure, teamwork, and responsibility. The success of that camp laid the foundation for what would become the global Scouting movement.
A book that sparked a movement (1908)
In 1908, Baden-Powell published Scouting for Boys. The book quickly became popular, inspiring young people to form patrols and troops across Britain and beyond. What made it special was its practical approach, encouraging self-reliance, service to others, citizenship, and leadership.
Scouting wasn’t just an activity; it was a movement.
A growing global movement (1920s)
After World War I, Scouting became a powerful symbol of unity and peace. In 1920, the first World Scout Jamboree brought together Scouts from around the world in friendship and cooperation. Soon after, the World Organisation of the Scout Movement (WOSM) was formed to support and connect Scout organisations globally.
For girls and young women, the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) was established in 1928, ensuring that the values of Guiding and Scouting could reach everyone.
From its early days, Scouting has aimed to build international friendship and understanding across cultures and borders.
Resilience through challenge
Scouting endured difficult times during both World Wars. In some countries, it was banned; in others, Scouts supported their communities through service and aid.
Following World War II, international gatherings resumed, and Scouting grew stronger than ever, becoming a beacon of hope for rebuilding and global cooperation.
How Scouting has evolved
Over more than 100 years, Scouting has continually adapted:
- Expanding programs for younger children and older youth
- Embracing coeducational opportunities in many countries
- Increasing focus on environmental stewardship
- Promoting global citizenship and diversity
- Incorporating technology and virtual engagement when needed
While uniforms and badges have changed, the heart of Scouting remains the same: preparing young people with skills for life.
Scouting at the Local Level: 10th Romsey Scout Group
Scouting’s history is not only global but also local.
10th Romsey Scout Group has a rich history and carries forward this tradition within its own communities, shaping generations of young people through adventure, service, and leadership.
You can learn more about their journey and local heritage here:
👉 10th Romsey Scout Group History
Celebrating Founder’s Day Today
On Founder’s Day, Scouts of all ages:
- Renew their commitment to the Scout Promise
- Reflect on Scouting’s history
- Celebrate international friendship
- Take part in community service
- Share stories across generations
It is a reminder that Scouting is not just about the past; it is about building the future.
Looking Ahead
From a small campfire on Brownsea Island to a worldwide family of millions, Scouting continues to evolve with the times while holding firmly to its founding principles.
As we celebrate Founder’s Day, we honour the legacy of Baden-Powell and the countless volunteers, leaders, and young people who have shaped Scouting’s story.
Here’s to the next chapter of adventure, service, and leadership—for all ages, for all communities, and for generations to come.
Happy Founder’s Day!
