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Boy Scouts Handbook: Original 1911 Edition
This is a full-color edition of the very first Boy Scouts Handbook , complete with the wonderful vintage advertisements that accompanied the original1911 edition, Over 40 million copies in print!
The original Boy Scouts Handbook standardized American scouting and emphasized the virtues and qualifications for scouting, delineating what the American Boy Scouts declared was needed to be a “well-developed, well-informed boy.” The book includes information
Scouts past and present will be fascinated to see how scouting has changed, as well as what has stayed the same over the years.
“In these pages and throughout our organization we have made it obligatory upon our scouts that they cultivate courage, loyalty, patriotism, brotherliness, self-control courtesy, kindness to animals, usefulness, cheerfulness, cleanliness, thrift purity, and honor, no one can doubt that with such training added to his native gifts, the American boy will bin the near future, as a man, bean efficient leader in the paths of civilization and peace.”—From the Preface
The original Boy Scouts Handbook standardized American scouting and emphasized the virtues and qualifications for scouting, delineating what the American Boy Scouts declared was needed to be a “well-developed, well-informed boy.” The book includes information
Scouts past and present will be fascinated to see how scouting has changed, as well as what has stayed the same over the years.
“In these pages and throughout our organization we have made it obligatory upon our scouts that they cultivate courage, loyalty, patriotism, brotherliness, self-control courtesy, kindness to animals, usefulness, cheerfulness, cleanliness, thrift purity, and honor, no one can doubt that with such training added to his native gifts, the American boy will bin the near future, as a man, bean efficient leader in the paths of civilization and peace.”—From the Preface
448 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1911
646 people are currently reading
2534 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
April 21, 2025
I was reading some Hemingway novels and something reminded me of Boy Scouts and I thought, hmm, Papa was handy dude (as well as a rolling stone), where did he learn all of his crafty knowledge?
His father was a physician and young Ernest reveled in hours and hours of unprogrammed time learning woodcraft in the Michigan woods along with how to hunt, fish and live in the outdoors. Being born in 1899, the boy would have been 12 when the Boy Scout Handbook was first published in 1911 and while I don’t think there is evidence that he attended any Boy Scout events, the same crafts taught to the young scouts would have been readily available to an outdoorsy lad intent on adventures.
Reading this, organized into easy to follow chapters that would be the template for the handbook for decades (including the one I had as a scout in the late 70s and early 80s), I also considered how much of an inspiration this must have been to generations of young men who not only learned outdoor crafts, but also morals and work ethic. This must also have been an influence on our culture as honesty, integrity, leadership and hard work were instilled in young men who would later become integral parts of our society.
His father was a physician and young Ernest reveled in hours and hours of unprogrammed time learning woodcraft in the Michigan woods along with how to hunt, fish and live in the outdoors. Being born in 1899, the boy would have been 12 when the Boy Scout Handbook was first published in 1911 and while I don’t think there is evidence that he attended any Boy Scout events, the same crafts taught to the young scouts would have been readily available to an outdoorsy lad intent on adventures.
Reading this, organized into easy to follow chapters that would be the template for the handbook for decades (including the one I had as a scout in the late 70s and early 80s), I also considered how much of an inspiration this must have been to generations of young men who not only learned outdoor crafts, but also morals and work ethic. This must also have been an influence on our culture as honesty, integrity, leadership and hard work were instilled in young men who would later become integral parts of our society.
November 19, 2024
The BOY SCOUT HANDBOOK is a great book for young boys, even if they aren't into scouting. Parents who believe in homeschooling could get ideas from this as well to instill into their children, both boys and girls. Even those who go to public and private schools could gain valuable knowledge by reading this book. Many of the topics covered were once taught at school and in the homes. Over the years changes have come about, partly out of necessity and sometimes by neglect. Parents far too often think that the children will be taught at school what they need to know or they can gain information on their own from the internet. Boy, am I glad there was no internet in my day!
Among the topics covered are Scout program history, procedures for advancement in the program, patriotism, personal health care and hygiene, water and camping safety, stalking and tracking animals for observation, surviving in the outdoors, knot tying, map reading and the use of a compass, first aid, canoeing, respect for nature as well as others, doing good deeds, moral integrity, and self worth. One's religious beliefs are also encouraged.
By way of example, many businesses and homes fly our country's flag as a sign of patriotism. However, most of them fail to show the symbol of our country the respect it deserves. Did you know that it is supposed to be run up at daylight and brought down at night? Neither is it to be flown in rain. On Memorial Day it is to be flown at half-staff till noon, then full-staff to sunset. Mourning, for the deceased, requires running it up to full-staff and then down to half-staff. Use the reverse procedure to take it down at sunset.
Tying knots comes in handy for things other than boating and camping. Being able to tie a knot on a sling for a broken arm or head wound out in the middle of nowhere may save a life.
Knowing how to light a fire and cook with the most basics could provide nutrition during a disaster. In such a circumstance one will most likely not be able to Google anything and FEMA might not assist you because of your personal beliefs.
Do you know the difference between heat stroke and sun stroke? First aid for each is different.
There are probably more young people today that know how to use the car's GPS than those who can read a topographic map. A service bridge or one under water would not be shown on a GPS.
This book is worth at least paging through. There will be something that you come across that you will find of interest.
Among the topics covered are Scout program history, procedures for advancement in the program, patriotism, personal health care and hygiene, water and camping safety, stalking and tracking animals for observation, surviving in the outdoors, knot tying, map reading and the use of a compass, first aid, canoeing, respect for nature as well as others, doing good deeds, moral integrity, and self worth. One's religious beliefs are also encouraged.
By way of example, many businesses and homes fly our country's flag as a sign of patriotism. However, most of them fail to show the symbol of our country the respect it deserves. Did you know that it is supposed to be run up at daylight and brought down at night? Neither is it to be flown in rain. On Memorial Day it is to be flown at half-staff till noon, then full-staff to sunset. Mourning, for the deceased, requires running it up to full-staff and then down to half-staff. Use the reverse procedure to take it down at sunset.
Tying knots comes in handy for things other than boating and camping. Being able to tie a knot on a sling for a broken arm or head wound out in the middle of nowhere may save a life.
Knowing how to light a fire and cook with the most basics could provide nutrition during a disaster. In such a circumstance one will most likely not be able to Google anything and FEMA might not assist you because of your personal beliefs.
Do you know the difference between heat stroke and sun stroke? First aid for each is different.
There are probably more young people today that know how to use the car's GPS than those who can read a topographic map. A service bridge or one under water would not be shown on a GPS.
This book is worth at least paging through. There will be something that you come across that you will find of interest.
April 25, 2017
this is a fantastic book full of useful practical information
April 14, 2008
Actually, never made it to boy scout, but read the book in preparation.
Am a former cub scout that was, in the words of a poet, "seduced by Iron Maiden's mirror worlds."
Also, there were controversies with the Pinewood derby (No, you can't hollow out the bottom of your car and place a lead sinker; even more, you can't just let your dad carve the entire car for you).
There should be some sort of GED program for guys like me who dropped out of scouting - some way we can earn our Arrows of Light, etc.
Am a former cub scout that was, in the words of a poet, "seduced by Iron Maiden's mirror worlds."
Also, there were controversies with the Pinewood derby (No, you can't hollow out the bottom of your car and place a lead sinker; even more, you can't just let your dad carve the entire car for you).
There should be some sort of GED program for guys like me who dropped out of scouting - some way we can earn our Arrows of Light, etc.
Read
February 14, 2018its good k it be sooo gooooooooooooooooooood
August 4, 2014
It is sinful to maintain an homophobia while trout-fishing in the nude.
April 4, 2015
This book is an essential guide toward understanding wilderness survival as well as pre-military training and life training in general.
August 23, 2024
A fantastic compendium for boys aspiring to men ... full of invaluable practical tips, traditional values and honest insights into the nature of young males that does not seek to vilify for potential fault but rather encourage towards nurturing the good. I hope I can convince my wife that, should we have a boy one day, he ought to join the Scouts (footnote: I now have two boys, and the jury's still out. She worries they'll get lost in the bush, bitten by a snake, or something).
My own experience as a child made to attend for years was invaluable, instilling in me a love for adventure and the outdoors, normalising the solemnity of ritual, ingraining respect for elders, and getting me off my ass and away from the Nintendo every once in a while. A good number of my fondest childhood memories are connected with the Scouts.
My own experience as a child made to attend for years was invaluable, instilling in me a love for adventure and the outdoors, normalising the solemnity of ritual, ingraining respect for elders, and getting me off my ass and away from the Nintendo every once in a while. A good number of my fondest childhood memories are connected with the Scouts.
July 2, 2017
It took about 8 months, but I finally finished reading the entire Boy Scout Handbook! As an Assistant 11 year old Scout leader, I was helped many times by knowing where information could be found. Reading the entirety of the manual also gives me a deeper appreciation for the comprehensive nature and goodness of the Scout program. I had many moments of inspiration while reading it, and received ideas for implementing these teachings with our young Scouts.
July 1, 2012
Item Title: Boy Scout Handbook (The Centennial Edition)
Item Call Number: HS3313 .B69 2009 ISBN- 978-0839531029
Reviewed in: LME 508
Boy scout handbook. (12th ed.).(2010).Irving, TX: Boy Scouts of America.
Relevance and Relationship—
Spiral bound, best for remaining open while consulting for information, is $ 14.99. This Boy Scout handbook is the Centennial edition and contains references to original methods used in Scouting alongside advances made in the 100 years of its existence.
Purpose:—
The influence of Scouting on young people can be witnessed in personal growth. One of the noticeable changes is a tendency toward leadership qualities. Self-confidence is fostered and critical thinking and problem solving is honed. During their Scouting trips they become exposed to the wonderful world of Science. Tips on long-term personal financial management and budgeting, which practices Math skills, are a new to this comprehensive handbook.
Scouting is the ultimate in perpetual Social Studies lessons as the boys learn cooperation, loyalty, courage, and survival skills.
Updated information on bullying, hazing, physical violence, and avoiding Internet dangers is a new feature as well.
Validity—
A time-honored organization is the best authority there is. Boy Scouts of America has written and published this collection of historical accounts of the organization and directives of activities of the organization and its members today. The fact that it blends the old ways with the new methods confirms that it is a timeless piece of literature.
Format–
The format of the Boy Scout handbook includes sections on internet use along with web addresses where important project information can be found. The book consists of 480 pages and is written in chapter form.
Near the end is an attractive certificate design page to be used to record your personal information including each level achieved.
The handbook is rich with illustrations of long ago, current pictures and also illustrations that are visuals of “how to” instructions. There is not enough room to describe all the format details in this wonderful treasure trove.
Arrangement and Presentation-
A first-ever iPhone application of the iconic guide available in September
Each page of the new handbook is laid out like a scrap book. Pictures of the past in timeline form are on the first several pages
Diversity
A Spanish version will be available in December
You don’t have to be a scout to benefit from this book. It can be used by anyone who likes the outdoors and would like to learn valuable skills.
Item Call Number: HS3313 .B69 2009 ISBN- 978-0839531029
Reviewed in: LME 508
Boy scout handbook. (12th ed.).(2010).Irving, TX: Boy Scouts of America.
Relevance and Relationship—
Spiral bound, best for remaining open while consulting for information, is $ 14.99. This Boy Scout handbook is the Centennial edition and contains references to original methods used in Scouting alongside advances made in the 100 years of its existence.
Purpose:—
The influence of Scouting on young people can be witnessed in personal growth. One of the noticeable changes is a tendency toward leadership qualities. Self-confidence is fostered and critical thinking and problem solving is honed. During their Scouting trips they become exposed to the wonderful world of Science. Tips on long-term personal financial management and budgeting, which practices Math skills, are a new to this comprehensive handbook.
Scouting is the ultimate in perpetual Social Studies lessons as the boys learn cooperation, loyalty, courage, and survival skills.
Updated information on bullying, hazing, physical violence, and avoiding Internet dangers is a new feature as well.
Validity—
A time-honored organization is the best authority there is. Boy Scouts of America has written and published this collection of historical accounts of the organization and directives of activities of the organization and its members today. The fact that it blends the old ways with the new methods confirms that it is a timeless piece of literature.
Format–
The format of the Boy Scout handbook includes sections on internet use along with web addresses where important project information can be found. The book consists of 480 pages and is written in chapter form.
Near the end is an attractive certificate design page to be used to record your personal information including each level achieved.
The handbook is rich with illustrations of long ago, current pictures and also illustrations that are visuals of “how to” instructions. There is not enough room to describe all the format details in this wonderful treasure trove.
Arrangement and Presentation-
A first-ever iPhone application of the iconic guide available in September
Each page of the new handbook is laid out like a scrap book. Pictures of the past in timeline form are on the first several pages
Diversity
A Spanish version will be available in December
You don’t have to be a scout to benefit from this book. It can be used by anyone who likes the outdoors and would like to learn valuable skills.
October 6, 2021
Would that today's youth were trained in this manner. There are a few things that need updating from the 1970s version, but not many, and today's youth - today's adults even - are woefully untrained in this body of general American knowledge and in these skill-sets. Our nation would avoid many of its social problems if youth once again took the old-style scouting program seriously, and worked their way through this book, and the programs it describes.
[EDIT] I just finished reading the Sixth Edition, and I have to say, this 1960s edition of the Boy Scout Handbook is even better than the 1070s version. There are things we have forgotten to teach our young men, and the consequences of that failure are evident across our current society. It is a genuine tragedy that the Scouting program that produced and embraced the teachings in this edition is no longer available to growing boys today. It is also a genuine tragedy that so many men who once read this book in their youth have forgotten its lessons and moved on with the world. There is wisdom in the values of the past that we need to regain. Sadly, in our attempts to abandon past folly we have tossed the proverbial baby out with the bathwater.
[EDIT] I just finished reading the Sixth Edition, and I have to say, this 1960s edition of the Boy Scout Handbook is even better than the 1070s version. There are things we have forgotten to teach our young men, and the consequences of that failure are evident across our current society. It is a genuine tragedy that the Scouting program that produced and embraced the teachings in this edition is no longer available to growing boys today. It is also a genuine tragedy that so many men who once read this book in their youth have forgotten its lessons and moved on with the world. There is wisdom in the values of the past that we need to regain. Sadly, in our attempts to abandon past folly we have tossed the proverbial baby out with the bathwater.
April 28, 2021
What a fun read! This is not the kind of thing most people would pick up to read through and certainly slow going in parts, but it provides a unique look back in time when our nation was a little more clear about what its ideals were. For all of our nation's flaws, the practical skills and ethical foundation covered in this book would be invaluable for all young men growing up today.
Read
May 3, 2019I didn't read this book... I accidentally clicked it. Sorry
September 12, 2024
Be prepared
March 7, 2012
Ah, yes. The Boy Scout Handbook Some years they are wonderful, other years the members believe the editors have lost their way.
But, some of my best memories are associated with being a Boy Scout leader. This book is an important part of instruction to teach young people to grow into good, healthy citizens.
But, some of my best memories are associated with being a Boy Scout leader. This book is an important part of instruction to teach young people to grow into good, healthy citizens.
May 29, 2012
The only book you ever need. Describes tracking, camping, citizenship, nature, and a slew of other things that everyone should know about. If everyone really read this book, courtesy would be reestablished and crime would disappear. Read, or at very least skim this book. Every page has something that might change the way you think. Found for free on gutenburg.
May 3, 2023
Character. Fun. Leadership. Service. Values. Scouting offers all this and more for boys and girls alike. Even if you are not a Scout, this book still has a lot it can teach you.
January 25, 2024
got Eagle Scout with this bad boy 🆙🔛🔝
February 4, 2024
Tons of practical knowledge for anyone that loves the outdoors.
January 8, 2026
As a former Scout myself, it’s amazing to see how many things are still around 100 years later.
Want to read
December 1, 2012Title:
Boy Scouts Handbook The First Edition 1911
Author: Boy Scouts of America
Item Call Number:
ISBN-13: 978-1616081980
Location:
http://www.amazon.com/Boy-Scouts-Hand...
Description:
This is a reprint of the very first Boy Scouts Handbook, complete with the wonderful vintage advertisements that accompanied the original 1911 edition, now in full color. Over 40 million copies of this book have been distributed since its first publication nearly 100 years ago.
Relevance and Relationship:
The book includes information on the organization of scouting, signs and signaling, camping, scouting games, and a description of several scouting honors. Scouts past and present will be interested to see how scouting has changed, as well as many things that have stayed the same over the years.
Purpose:
Boy scouting is an excellent way to introduce valuable life skills to young boys.
A handbook on scouting would be an asset to have in the reference collection at it helps boys learn cooperation, loyalty, courage, and survival skills.
Validity:
Boy Scouts of America has written and published this collection of historical accounts of the organization and directives of activities of the organization and its members today.
Boy Scouts of America is one of the largest youth organizations in the United States, with over 4 million youth members in its age-related divisions. Since its founding in 1910 as part of the international Scout Movement, more than 110 million Americans have been members of the BSA.
Format:
Paperback: 448 pages
Arrangement and Presentation:
511 color photographs, nine chapters with appendix at the end of the book. The handbook contains many interesting topics with lots of original photos from the first edition. This is full of information that would interest young boys.
Diversity:
This book can be used by anyone who enjoys being outdoors and would like to learn valuable skills.
Boy Scouts Handbook The First Edition 1911
Author: Boy Scouts of America
Item Call Number:
ISBN-13: 978-1616081980
Location:
http://www.amazon.com/Boy-Scouts-Hand...
Description:
This is a reprint of the very first Boy Scouts Handbook, complete with the wonderful vintage advertisements that accompanied the original 1911 edition, now in full color. Over 40 million copies of this book have been distributed since its first publication nearly 100 years ago.
Relevance and Relationship:
The book includes information on the organization of scouting, signs and signaling, camping, scouting games, and a description of several scouting honors. Scouts past and present will be interested to see how scouting has changed, as well as many things that have stayed the same over the years.
Purpose:
Boy scouting is an excellent way to introduce valuable life skills to young boys.
A handbook on scouting would be an asset to have in the reference collection at it helps boys learn cooperation, loyalty, courage, and survival skills.
Validity:
Boy Scouts of America has written and published this collection of historical accounts of the organization and directives of activities of the organization and its members today.
Boy Scouts of America is one of the largest youth organizations in the United States, with over 4 million youth members in its age-related divisions. Since its founding in 1910 as part of the international Scout Movement, more than 110 million Americans have been members of the BSA.
Format:
Paperback: 448 pages
Arrangement and Presentation:
511 color photographs, nine chapters with appendix at the end of the book. The handbook contains many interesting topics with lots of original photos from the first edition. This is full of information that would interest young boys.
Diversity:
This book can be used by anyone who enjoys being outdoors and would like to learn valuable skills.
December 14, 2007
holla.
i was a member of an inner city scout troop, wouldnt change that for the world. respect the issues of the scouts in a broader sense, but cant deny what i learned. this book has touchstones on life, respect, honor, honesty, faith in humanity, survival, endurance, service, and tollerance. if more people knew what was in this book, the world would be a better place. i see how the scouts has made bad decisions and involved itself in biggotry from a company standpoint, but that detracts from the value of this book.
-p
i was a member of an inner city scout troop, wouldnt change that for the world. respect the issues of the scouts in a broader sense, but cant deny what i learned. this book has touchstones on life, respect, honor, honesty, faith in humanity, survival, endurance, service, and tollerance. if more people knew what was in this book, the world would be a better place. i see how the scouts has made bad decisions and involved itself in biggotry from a company standpoint, but that detracts from the value of this book.
-p
Read
April 28, 2016This book was very interesting. As a boy scout in reality, some of the requirements are the same, and some of them aren't. I can see, that the requirements get harder. Also, this book is interesting, and i suggest you to read the old requirements, and compare of how it was then, and how it is different now.
March 15, 2012
Gotta give my friend Jay Tom the assist on including this one. Easily one of the most influential books of the 20th century. I am a huge proponent of Boy Scouts and wish more people understood the value of the program. Talk about changing millions of lives.
September 5, 2015
I think I enjoyed reading this more than actually being in scouts.
September 3, 2020
Pretty outdated ideals on masculinity and the American boy. Useful knot tricks though.
May 31, 2021
This book was for my husband to help him with his Boy Scout Troop leadership.
September 5, 2020
Scouting is an amazing program for youths. You learn practical life skills that you just don’t get taught in school anymore. Things like managing personal finances, cooking your own meals, the joy of service projects helping others, and learning to work with others as a team. The growth and maturation my son has gained through the program has been incredible. Having a teen it is essential to have other adults present that can mentor your child and especially older kids that can be positive role models for your child to look up to and learn from.
As a trained leader in scouting I can also say that child protection and safety is always the #1 priority. They give us extensive training and have very strict policies in place that ensure no 1 on 1 contact or communication between adults and scouts. It is extremely sad what happened in the past when these rules weren’t in place, but I am hopeful the program can continue to offer the positive aspects while also ensuring the safety of the participants. They are always trying to improve their policies and training each year to make it the best it can be.
As a trained leader in scouting I can also say that child protection and safety is always the #1 priority. They give us extensive training and have very strict policies in place that ensure no 1 on 1 contact or communication between adults and scouts. It is extremely sad what happened in the past when these rules weren’t in place, but I am hopeful the program can continue to offer the positive aspects while also ensuring the safety of the participants. They are always trying to improve their policies and training each year to make it the best it can be.
April 5, 2025
#let them be boys #let girls be girls respect and no sexist bizarre talk #i was safe in BOY (incl. 'cubscouts'), SCOUTS in the early 1980s. #in English or any language speaking to people honestly creating open safe in communities #non violence #apologies and affection to Jones boys men like I long ago still by grace standing. #values reaching out to help others unite us #i can reach out #you already know #your not the strongest #hes not as weak as you think. Now suppose you wouldn't put him to a lesser position or value #he will be stronger because of your valuing all others #we stand together #with reassurance we fwd go with the younger and older who aren't as 'weak,' anymore but glow veins arteries strong parts and not push us past the threshold to hope unlimited..God is alive we all will survive we should do now brave the deed speed us to rely on the unseen hand the eternal handshake 🤝 the Good Shepherd. Y H V H BLESSED BE THE HOLY ONE LET IT BE.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews