Join us September 27-29 at Hidden Valley Scout Reservation for a thrilling camporee where Scouts will step back in time and experience the challenges and adventures inspired by Baden-Powell’s legendary defense of Mafeking.
Scouts will embark on a NIGHT ADVENTURE, navigating through a series of exciting and challenging activity stations. From crossing a simulated minefield to building a ladder out of Scout staves, every patrol will need to work together, relying on their skills and teamwork to overcome obstacles. They’ll silently scout a historic village, map it from memory, and even perform first aid on simulated injuries.
Get ready for an unforgettable weekend where history comes alive, and Scouts prove their mettle under the stars! All troops, crews, and ships are invited to attend. Due to the nature of the activities and the main programming taking place at night, packs will be unable to attend the event.
History of the Event
In 1899, Colonel Robert Baden-Powell, who would later become the First Chief Scout of the World, was dispatched to South Africa. His mission was to raise a regiment in the area around the town of Mafeking. Shortly after his arrival, the Boer War erupted, and a formidable force of 9,000 Boer soldiers advanced on Mafeking. With only 1,251 defenders, Baden-Powell led a heroic defense of the town during a grueling 217-day siege. Despite overwhelming odds and the loss of nearly 326 men, his successful defense of the town, with its population of 8,000, became a symbol of courage and resilience, earning him a promotion to Major General.
Baden-Powell’s exploits in Mafeking and other parts of the world, such as India and Russia, captivated the imaginations of young boys. When he published Scouting for Boys in 1908, following the first Brownsea Island camp, it sparked a movement that spread across Great Britain and eventually the world.
Questions?
If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, you can contact John Hess at jhess7477@gmail.com and Tyler Roman at tyler.roman@scouting.org.