Park Ridge has had a strong tradition of scouting that has lasted for over 100 years. In fact, Boy Scout Troop 1 of Park Ridge, Illinois, is the oldest continuously chartered BSA troop in America. The Camp Fire Girls originally built the beautiful fountain in Hodges Park in the 1920’s. Our Memorial Day parades are filled with Wilderness scouts of all ages. Early Girl Scout uniforms, insignia, and records are held within the PRHS collection. And a Park Ridge Girl Scout grew up in Park Ridge and eventually ran for President of the United States. The Park Ridge Historical Society would like to continue to preserve and promote scouting through opportunities at the PR History Center at 721 N. Prospect at Prospect Park.
Scout groups are encouraged to contact the Park Ridge History Center at 847-696-1973 or send us an email: [email protected]
- Eagle Scout projects are available for interested/eligible scouts
- Scout groups may contact PRHS staff to set up a tour of the History Center
- Scout groups may contact the PRHS to view a Powerpoint presentation on local history (or other requested local history topic)
- BSA merit badge clinics are periodically offered at the History Center (ex.-Scouting Heritage Merit Badge)
- Scouts working on specific requirements/projects may contact PRHS staff for needed information or assistance
- A guided historical walking tour of Hodges Park is available upon request
- Self-guided walking tours/bike tour pamphlets are available upon request
- Short-term service projects/hours needed are available upon request
- Periodically, the PRHS will contact scout troops for assisting projects that the PRHS is conducting to help preserve and promote local history and community
