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Lobby
Welcome to the Horseshoe Scout Reservation Alumni Association Virtual Museum! Please take a minute to learn more about the VM before visiting the various rooms filled with artifacts from HSR's rich history. When you are ready to enter the museum, click Directory at the top of the screen.
- Navigating the Virtual Museum
This tutorial has been created to help you find your way around the HSRAA Virtual Museum. Most of the features are described in the following displays. As always, any suggestions or comments are appreciated.
- Resource Rack
This exhibit will allow you to see some of the resources used by contributors and researchers in developing content for this museum. Who knows... it might help you find something to add to the museum!
- What's New
Listed below are the exhibits that have been added or changed recently. Enter the number of days you want to look in the past below.
- What is it?
The What is it? exhibit is a collection of Horseshoe artifacts that the VM editors need your help to identify. Any information that you can supply to help us place the event and time period is appreciated. Simply use the Contribute Info link by the artifact caption to send your information.
- Most Wanted List
The HSR Alumni Association needs your help! The editors of the Virtual Museum are in search of artifacts. While we are looking for all items relating to Horseshoe Scout Reservation, the following topics have been identified the HSRAA Most Wanted List. If you have any items relating to these objects, please contact the VM curator or better yet, use the Member Online Submission.
- HSRAA Trivia Quiz
Test your knowledge of Horseshoe Scout Reservation with the Horseshoe and Ware Trivia Quizzes. Some questions are easy; others are a bit tougher. You might want to check out the museum displays to improve your score. Note: Adobe Flash® Player is required to use these quizzes. Download and install from www.adobe.com.
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Before there was Horseshoe...
This room is dedicated to preserving the history of Chester County Council camps prior to the developing of Horseshoe Scout Reservation as well as the history of the lands that would become Horseshoe Scout Reservation.
- Camp Lafayette
Camp Lafayette, located at Icedale in Chester County was the first Council Camp. It served as the Summer Camp in 1919 and 1920.
- Camp Rothrock
Camp Rothrock, located in the Michaux State Forest near Carlisle replaced Camp Lafayette as the Council Camp in 1921. While the secluded wilderness setting was ideal, the distance from Chester County was a problem and the camp's life was short lived. The camp closed after the 1927 season.
- Horseshoe before the Boy Scouts
The history of Horseshoe Scout Reservation begins long before the Boy Scouts took interest in the corner of Chester, Lancaster and Cecil counties. This area was inhabited by Native Americans, farmers and bootleggers prior to becoming our beloved Scout Camp.
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Camp Geography
From the majestic rolling hills to the stark beauty of the Octoraro Creek, HSR has breathtaking vistas that have been catalogued as maps and photographed by the amateurs and experts alike.
- HSR Maps
Throughout the years, camp maps have been drawn and produced for various purposes, to highlight the camps' facilities or to direct hikers along the trail system of the reservation. Some have had a cartoonish look while others would make a cartographer proud. Some have even made it onto bandanas.
- Eagle's and Scouter's Grove
Eagle's Grove and Scouter's Grove were planted on either end of the Athletic Field in 1930. Chester County Council Scouts planted a new tree in Eagle's Grove upon reaching the rank of Eagle for many years while the trees in Scouter's Grove honored Council adult leaders.
- Landscapes & Aerial Photography
Ever wonder what HSR looks like from Space? Well, keep wondering, but we'll let you see from several thousand feet. And for those afraid of heights, take a gander at the wonderful views of the camp scenery from a more earthly perspective.
- The Octoraro Creek
The Octoraro Creek winds through the camp in the shape of a horseshoe for which Horseshoe Scout Reservation received it's name. The creek has been the source of recreation, beauty and destruction over the years.
- Flagpole Hill
For many years, Old Glory flew over Camp Horseshoe from atop Flagpole Hill. Each morning a pair of Scouts from one of the troops would raise the flag and then in the evening it would be lowered during the retreat ceremony. Eventually the surrounding trees grew to a height where you could no longer see the flag from the rest of camp and the tradition ended.
- Buzzards Rock
The large rock outcropping overlooking the Octoraro has been a popular spot to explore since the early days of Camp and before.
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Spirit of the Horseshoe
J. B. Rettew's book, Spirit of the Horseshoe, is a thorough history of the first 75 years of Chester County Council from 1919 through 1994. Much of that history involves the council camps. Excerpts from each chapter pertaining to the council camps have been included as exhibits in this room. The Spirit of the Horseshoe can be found in it's entirety on the main HSRAA website.
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Camp Ware
This room is dedicated the history of Camp Ware. This camp which sits across the Octoraro from Camp Horseshoe to the east. This Camp had its beginnings as the Explorer Base headed up by Ernie Heegard in the late 1950's. Next it was known as Camp Jubilee and featured a different style of camping where Troop's were responsible for their own meal preparation. In the mid-1980's the Camp was renamed to Camp Ware in honor of John H Ware III. Today it serves as both the Council's Cub Camp and still has a couple of weeks of Scout camping.
- General History
From it's early days as the Explorer Base, through the years as Camp Jubilee, Camp Ware has continued to provide the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts of Chester County Council with a valuable outdoor experience.
- Explorer Base
In the late 1950's, Council opened the Lewis property for use as an Explorer Base. Under the leadership of Ernie Heegard, this Camp served older Scouts as a base camp for backpacking, canoeing and even sailing above the Conowingo Dam.
- Camp Jubilee
In the early 1960's, the Explorer Base was renamed Camp Jubilee. The camp featured a 'Jambo' style of camping for troops that wanted to experience outdoor skills under their own leadership rather than the more structured program across the creek at Camp Horseshoe.
- Camp John H. Ware III
1985 saw Camp Jubilee renamed to Camp John H Ware III in honor of the former Chester County Council president and member of the U. S. House of Representatives. Since that time, the Camp has continued to be the site of Scout Summer Camp and special events in addition to becoming the Council's Cub Scout Camp.
- Cub Town
Cub Town was a major addition to Camp John H. Ware III in 2003.
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Timeline
A chronological walk down history lane, from the birth of HSR to present day. This room supplements The Spirit of the Horseshoe room, which is a chronological narrative of HSR from 1919 - 1994. Here, you'll find HSR in pictures through CCC's Diamond Jubilee (1994) and beyond.
This room was opened July 18th, 2009 at the 10th Annual HSRAA Reunion in honor of G. Ernest Heegard and J.B. Rettew III.
- 1920s
The first decade to include HSR's history was nearly at an end when the Reynolds property was purchased and developed into Chester County County's much-needed permanent long-term camping facility. The first campsites were built, as well as the first stockade buildings erected, and the reservation began its illustrious and still continuing tenure as one of the best in the country.
- 1930s
The thirties saw Camp Horseshoe grow tremendously. Far from the simple farm lands it had been founded upon, the camp built new facilities and began traditions that lasted through to this day.
- 1940s
Despite the immeasurable impact from World War II on America, Camp Horseshoe continues without interruption in the 40s to help develop future leaders. To assist in those efforts, new structures are built - including the Morrison Health Lodge - and Roberts' Day is instituted to salute one of the main benefactors of the era, Hon. Owen J. Roberts.
- 1950s
The Fifties saw the building of the Octoraro Lodge building as well as the formation of the Explorer Base across the creek from Camp Horseshoe, and it later became Camp Jubilee then finally Camp John H. Ware III.
- 1960s
Facility expansion at Camp Jubilee continue in the 1960s with the addition of a pool and several other buildings, and traditions such as outpost camping and a 6-day format for camping become popular as well as Webelos visits.
- 1970s
Nature-made damage to the Horseshoe side of the reservation during the 1970s did not put a damper on several important celebrations, namely the 50th Anniversaries of Camp Horseshoe and Octoraro Lodge 22.
- 1980s
The 1980s were a decade of expansion, rebuilding and saying our fond farewells at HSR. The camp profited from the expansion of the Dining Hall and Headquarters Building, while the newly dedicated Schraam Lodge and Achgeketum Circle were a testament to the devotion of some of HSR's most respected patrons, including G. Ernest Heegard, who retired in 1988 after 29 years as Camp Director of Horseshoe. Camp Jubilee became Camp John H. Ware III in honor of the politician who donated heavily to camp.
- 1990s
The 1990s provided an opportunity for experimentation with program and fundraising. The C.O.P.E. program at Horseshoe developed as well as its offshoot, the Mountain Biking program, and Scoutcraft outgrew its original design and became the Trailblazer program. Several different fundraising campaigns by Chester County Council and the Order of the Arrow helped improve existing facilities at HSR and Bill Hess became Reservation Director to help usher in a new era of program and facility excellence.
- 2000s
The new century brought with it new facilities and new programs. C.O.P.E. and Trailblazers hit their stride at Horseshoe while Camp Ware received capital campaign funds to build Macaleer, HQ and Health Lodge buildings. The HSRAA was formed and helped improve both camps.
- 2010s
What will this decade hold for Horseshoe Scout Reservation? It's a little too early to tell, but there are lots of facility improvement projects in the works as well as the same dynamic program Scouts and Scouters have come to depend on.
- Reflecting History
Inside this exhibit, you'll see how outside history has made an indelible impression on HSR and how its camps reflected those events since Lindbergh flew solo across the Atlantic.
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Memorabilia
To show pride in HSR, lots of items from t-shirts, mugs, postcards, patches and more have been adorned with symbols of Scouting and Horseshoe to remind the wearer/user/admirer that they're a part of a special place.
- Postcards
Postcards have always been a popular means of keeping in touch with the folks back home. Camp Horseshoe still requires a postcard or letter home as a meal ticket to a mid-week lunch. And yes, the Scouts still sometimes arrive home before the postcard does!
- Camp Mugs
Having a functional mug to fill up with water and soda (Scouts) or coffee (Scouters) is necessary during the warm summers and brutal winters at HSR, but having a collectible one is even better. Take a look around in this exhibit to see what muggy fashions have been produced over the years.
- Camp Hats
For such shining summers at HSR, these hats were issued to keep the sun out of the eyes in style.
- Patches
Collecting patches from various Scouting activities has been a tradition since the early days of Scouting. Horseshoe Scout Reservation has been the site of many of these activities and here are some of the patches to prove it.
- Shirts and Sweaters
Here are some of the shirts and sweaters sold at HSR over the years.
- Neckerchiefs
Neckerchiefs have always been an integral part of the Boy Scout uniform. HSR has produced a number of different styles.
- Miscellaneous Memorabilia
Here is a collection of miscellaneous items that have included the HSR logo over the years.
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Publications and Productions
Read/See/Hear all about it! This room features newsletters, press clippings, and other things written or produced by or about the Horseshoe Scout Reservation or its patrons.
- Camp Horseshoe Echos
Each week, a rundown of the happenings of Camp Horseshoe are captured in The Echo, which each camp participant receives at the end of Sunday lunch.
- 'The Trail Blazer'
Over the years, the Council news letter, The Trail Blazer, has published many articles related to Horseshoe Scout Reservation. Here are some of those articles. Thanks to Isaac Whyte and others for saving their copies!
- Historical Documents
Here you will find letters of correspondence, contracts and other significant documents that will give you a firsthand look at some of the more momentous events in HSR's history.
- Promotions
Having a great program isn't enough - the word has to get out! Here are the brochures and videos compiled over the years to let everyone know what treasures await them at HSR.
- Camp Horseshoe Greenbriars
This informational newsletter appears every Monday morning at the Camp Horseshoe breakfast tables and includes a listing of adult leaders and staff.
- Meet the Press
A place as big as the Horseshoe Scout Reservation can't hide from the outside - and why should it? Here's what the media has had to say about HSR over the years.
- Leader Guides
The Horseshoe Scout Reservation is jam packed full of program during the summer, so any unit looking to make the most of their week at camp should have read these guides. Browse through these guides and you'll see how various programs have changed over the years.
- Historical Accounts
This exhibit contains various accounts of the history of Horseshoe Scout Reservation published over the years.
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Ware Buildings
Camp Ware consists of a number of buildings that are instrumental in delivering the quality program that we all have come to expect. Some of the structures have been around since the Explorer Base was founded, but many of the large structures have been added in the last decade. Step into this room to learn more about each building's unique purpose and history.
- Lawrence Lodge
Lawrence Lodge was the first building constructed on the Lewis Property. It was built in 1958 for the Explorer Base and is used as a Winter Camp lodge. Prior to the new HQ building, it served as Headquarters during summer camp.
- Sloan Lodge
Sloan Lodge is multipurposed as many buildings at HSR; it serves as a winter cabin during the winter camping season as well as staff quarters during the summer.
- Dining Hall
Though some programs call for participants to have Outpost meals, Camp Ware staffers get their meals here and many others from the Special Camporee to Cub Scouts have great fun as program is best delivered on a full stomach at HSR.
- Headquarters
The new Headquarters Building at Camp Ware was developed as part of Chester County Council's Capital Campaign. Construction began in 2003 and was completed in 2004, and the new building provides a large lobby to welcome guests, Program staff offices, a large kitchen and spacious sleeping quarters. A new walk-in Trading Post also accompanied the HQ building.
- Macaleer Lodge
One of the main attractions stemming from Chester County Council's Capital Campaign, this building serves as "Cub Town" during the weeks of Cub Scout Camping in the summer and as a large winter cabin from October to April. Macaleer Lodge is named after one of the heads of the Capital Campaign effort, R. James Macaleer.
- Staff City
Staff City at Camp Ware was constructed in 2004 to house the Camp staff during the summer season and can be used by Troops during the Winter camping season.
- Health Lodge
When sickness befalls the staff, Scouts or parents, this is the place to be. This new building was constructed in the early 2000s and has several rooms such as you might find in a regular doctor's office.
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Ware Outdoor Facilities
Chester County Council has always vowed to make camping at Camp Ware a positive outdoor experience. In this room you will find the history of the outdoor facilities that been delivering on that promise.
- Campfire Circle
Camp Ware's Campfire Circle, nestled between a hillside and the Octoraro Creek, is the perfect setting for putting on a show.
- Camp Ware Pool
The Camp Ware Pool was built in 1966 and served Camp's swimming and lifesaving program needs ever since.
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Horseshoe Buildings
Camp Horseshoe consists of a number of buildings that are instrumental in delivering the quality program that we all have come to expect. Some of the structures predate the Camp while others have been added in the last decade. Step into this room to learn more about each building's unique purpose and history.
- The Lane House
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- White House
The old Reynolds' family farm house served as the Camp's first Headquarters and Hospital. In 1929, Council decreed that the building be known as the White House.
- Allen Memorial Dining Hall
Food is always on the mind of young Scouts. One of the first buildings erected at Camp Horseshoe was the Allen Memorial Dining Hall. Funding for the construction came in large part from the Manufacturer's Casualty Insurance Company of Philadelphia and the building was named for the company's president, James K. Allen.
- Kindness Center
Kindness Center was constructed during the inaugural year of Camp from funds donated by the S.P.C.A. The upstairs has served as a forum for rained out campfires and camp-wide games. The lower level has housed the Handicraft Department and the original Trading Post.
- Browning Lodge
Browning Lodge, originally called Scoutmaster's Lodge, was built on the foundation of the Reynolds farm wagon shed. The construction of camp's first winter lodge was funded by contributions in memory of Edward Browning, the first Scoutmaster of Devon Troop 50.
- McIlvaine Lodge
McIlvaine Lodge was built in the mid 1930's by C. C. Cole and the Camp Staff from lumber acquired by dismantling the Cecil Paper Company Superintendent's house. The building was dedicated to Gilbert McIlvaine, a Horseshoe founder and chief architect, in 1940.
- Morrison Health Lodge
The Morrison Health Lodge replaced the White House as the Camp Hospital in the early 1940's.
- Rothrock and Roberts Lodges
These twin buildings were built in 1959 to be used primarily as Winter Lodges. Roberts' Lodge is also used during Summer Camp as the Nature Lodge.
- Headquarters
The Camp Headquarters was moved from White House when the current Headquarters building was built in the late 1940's. In the early 1980's, Headquarters was expanded when the Rossiter Visit Center was added. In 2006, the trading post was moved out of the HQ building to what is now called Trader Bill's.
- Schramm Lodge
Campmaster's Lodge was converted into a winter lodge in 1982 with the addition of sleeping quarters. At that time the building was renamed Schramm Lodge and dedicated to Harold Schram, a long-time Scouter from West Chester.
- OA Lodge
Octoraro Lodge 22 has always been a big part of Camp Horseshoe. In the 1950's the OA Lodge was built near the Dining Hall and was completed in 1959. Since then it has been used for special events such as Conclaves, for OA Snacks during summer camp as well as staff housing, and also as housing for OA Winter Camp Staffing. The OA Lodge is currently under major renovations to coincide with it's 50th anniversary.
- Trader Bill's
The much expanded Trading Post, Trader Bill's, was opened in 2005, and is named so in honor of the William R. Hess, who served as HSR Reservation Manager for more than a decade.
- Shower Houses
A Scout is Clean! The Camp Shower Houses have gone through some changes down through the years.
- Maintenence Buildings
Ongoing maintenance has always been a big part of keeping Camp Horseshoe running smoothly.
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Horseshoe Outdoor Facilities
Chester County Council has always vowed to make camping at Camp Horseshoe a positive outdoor experience. In this room you will find the history of the outdoor facilities that been delivering on that promise.
- Heistand Pool
Camp Horseshoe's pool was constructed in 1930. At the time, this 50 yard pool was the largest east of the Mississippi. In 1985 the pool was dedicated to the camp founder, Chief Charles M. Heistand.
- Campfire Circles
The Saturday night campfire has long been a tradition at Camp Horseshoe. The campfire opens with the ceremonial Indian Pageant performed by Octoraro Lodge members and is followed by the presentation of awards recognizing the week's achievements of the Scouts.
- Schlaanstine Memorial Chapel
The Horseshoe Chapel was constructed by the Order of the Arrow in the 1930. The location was chosen for it's magestic view of camp. In 1960, the Chapel was expaned and dedicated to Sgt Frederick Schlaanstine.
- Goodman Pavilion
The Goodman pavilion, named after longtime Scouting benefactors the Goodman family, is the site of many activities including merit badge classes, HSRAA reunions, OA weekend check-ins, training and more.
- Athletic Field
The Athletic Field has been the site of various competitions throughout the Camp's history including archery, baseball, soccer, volleyball and the original obstacle course.
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Campsites
A mixture of adirondacks, cabins and tent sites, Horseshoe Scout Reservation has something for everyone. Since 1928, many campsites have been added and the occasional few taken away by the elements, but each is the bedrock by which the troop and patrol program flourishes. Come and experience memories from the many campsites that are home for a few thousand Scouts each summer.
- Camp Ware Tent Sites
All of the Camp Ware campsites (with the exception of Jubilee) are named after aliases of Natty Bumpo, the hero of the Leatherstocking Tales by James Fenimore Cooper.
- Camp Horseshoe Stockades
The five original campsites at the time of Horseshoe's opening in 1928 were stockade sites. They were today's Sherwood Forest, Boonesboro, Kit Carson, Davy Crockett and Bayard Taylor. A sixth stockade site, Clifton Lisle, has since been added.
- Camp Horseshoe Adirondacks
The two adirondack style campsites, Rothrock and Roberts, were built in the '50s. Each shelter has a concrete floor, three sides with an open front and four bunks.
- Camp Horseshoe Tent Sites
Horseshoe consists of a number of Tent Sites. These sites consist of two person wall tents on wooden platforms. They are not named after any particular pattern as is common in some camps - some campsites at Horseshoe refer to historical figures of Chester County (especially, Scouting in Chester County), or refer to culturally or geographically significant things within the region.
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Infrastructure
When digging into what makes Horseshoe Scout Reservation that wonderful experience that we all remember, one should not forget the supporting infrastructure that is often overlooked.
- Camp Roads
Anyone who camped, worked or just visited Camp Horseshoe prior to the construction of the current Camp Road knows that a road cannot be taken for granted. This exhibit is dedicated to those who worked tirelessly to keep the old camp road open and made the new camp road a reality.
- Bridges of HSR
With the Octoraro Creek cutting through Horseshoe Scout Reservation, there has long existed a need to get to the other side.
- Reservation Signs
"Sign, sign, everywhere a sign ...". This exhibit is dedicated to the signs that helped us find our way to Camp and once there, find our way around Camp.
- Camp Telephone System
The telephone system at HSR has gone through a number of changes throughout the years to keep up with the time.
- Camp Water System
This exhibit contains some of the history of the Camp's water supply.
- Camp Vehicles
Not always the most aesthetically pleasing or dependable for saving gas, these beasts do get the job despite the abuse the staff has given them.
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Sights and Sounds
Take a hands off approach and open your ears and eyes to the amplitudes of sound and the burst of colors around you at camp. Experience the unique compositions of images, audio and video inside this room.
- HSR Retreat Ceremony
Each evening, campers and staff assemble at the Horseshoe parade field in a unique ceremony that has been around since the opening of Camp Horseshoe.
- Camp Pageants
Pageants have been part of the Camp Horseshoe program from the beginning. The style and form of these pageants have changed throughout the camp's history. This room captures the metamorphosis from the elaborate dramatic plays of the 20's and 30's to the ceremonial campfire pageants of today.
- Camp Horseshoe Troop Photos
Since 1978, troops who attend Summer Camp at Camp Horseshoe have been given the opportunity to take a picture of their entire troop for posterity.
- Camp Ware Troop Photos
With most of the Troop members attending Summer Camp, Camp Ware is a popular place to take a formal Troop Photo. Here are some that have been taken over the years at Camp Jubilee and Ware. Please submit your troop photos from Summer Camp to the VM!
- The Sounds of Camp Horseshoe
Camp is a rich experience, one for all the senses. You might hear some fantastical sounds you never knew existed or wondered what the origins are of that fabulous music you heard. This exhibit captures the wonderful mix of sounds one encounters during their week at Horseshoe.
- The Sump Pumps
Camp Horseshoe's Original Jug Band, the Sump Pumps began performing at camp in the 1960s with a variety of instruments for a funky folksy style all their own.
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Horseshoe Program Areas
Starting with Campcraft, Aquatics and a just few other program areas, Horseshoe has grown its summer program into a multitude of varying departments catering to younger and older Scouts alike. Some offer merit badges, others a unique Horseshoe experience.
- Aquatics
Whether it's passing a swim test or tubing down the Octoraro, the Aquatics department has lots of ways to keep you cool from the summer heat.
- Campcraft
Skills such as pioneering, wilderness survival, cooking, camping and orienteering are the bedrock of the outdoor self-reliance program for which the Scouting movement was founded, and the Campcraft department has been a faithful advocate of these essentials since the inaugural summer of Camp Horseshoe.
- C.O.P.E.
The Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience (C.O.P.E.) program gives older Scouts the opportunity to develop themselves in a variety of fun and exciting ways at the first-rate Allen K. Forssmark C.O.P.E. course. The course - built up since the mid-90s by staff and volunteers such as Allen Forssmark and Jim Battenfelder - continues to expand in scope as the interest and participation grows with each year.
- Handicraft
Whether it's working with wood, leather, metal or reed, Handicraft is the place to let your wellspring of creativity flow. Located in the Lower Kindness Center, this department offers Art, Leatherwork, Basketry, Woodwork, Woodcarving and Metalworking merit badges.
- Health & Fitness
Doing double duty as health lodge and program area, Scouts can participate in First Aid, EP and Fitness MBs, as well as SIP, First Aid Meets and Track Meets. And of course, they can fix cuts and bruises too.
- Fields Sports
Sometimes known as Shooting Sports, this department affords Scouts the opportunity to learn maintenance, safety, and operational aspects of their firearm, bow or rod while having a great time on the range or in the river.
- Nature and Conservation
The Nature and Conservation department has been dedicated to teaching about the environment and the importance of preserving it. From the early days in the 'Bug House' to its current location in and around Roberts Lodge, the summer camp staff has continued to provide this education to generations of young Scouts through merit badge classes, quality displays and live demonstrations.
- Trailblazers
Originally known as Scoutcraft, this department is for first year campers at Horseshoe who want to explore the whole of what camp has to offer by getting a taste of each program area. Trailblazers also focuses on rank advancement up to first class.
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Camp Ware Program Areas
Camp Ware has a proud heritage of providing excellent program areas during its Cub and Boy Scouting summer camping seasons, with adventure and learning brimming at each pavilion, hut, tarp, range, cabin or lodge.
- Nature
Many folks have explored the Camp Ware Nature Department and found quite a number of slithery, leafy, starry and furry exhibits. Posters, animals, plants and more await the curious observer in this department.
- Handicraft
Handicraft is a good place to express one's creative side, and Scouts (and parents) of all ages get a chance during the summer to build, weave, carve, paint and stitch their creations in a safe and fun manner.
- Field Sports
Many a marksman has been cultivated at the Camp Jubilee / Ware / Explorer Base Field Sports department. For the Cub program, bibi guns and bows & arrows are used while the Boy Scouts use .22 rifles, shotguns and participate in archery also.
- Campcraft
The basic survival skills of Scouting are taught here - camping, cooking, orienteering, hiking and pioneering. Participants at the Cub or Boy Scouting level are bound to pickup new wilderness skills in this department.
- Aquatics
The Aquatics department has always been an important piece of the Camp Ware program. Swimming was always conducted in the Octoraro Creek until the pool was built in the mid 1960s.
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Campwide Activities
Through the years, the Program Department department has sponsered a number of campwide activities including the opening and closing campfires, campwide games and special events like Diving Della, Hawaiian Luaus, Herman the Flea and more. This room is dedicated to those activities and while the room is somewhat bare, it is our hope that HSRAA members will help out by sending their pictures and memories of these events.
- Horseshoe Campfires
On Sunday, Scouts get a taste of the wackiness of the staff by watching them sing, dance and skit down by the Octoraro Bend. Each Saturday, the camp convenes in Achgeketum Circle (built in 1988) to recognize the accomplishments of the Scouts and also to perform a Native-American pageant for the parents who visit the camp.
- Camp Ware Campwide Games
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- Horseshoe Campwide Games
Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening during a summer camp week, the camp turns into one big game as Scouts scavenge, hunt, perform, run, tackle, jump and a host of other verbs in their quest to be the top patrol or troop that night.
- Thursday Night Cookouts
Mark Hammond recalls, "Camp doesn't do the Thursday night cookouts anymore, but from at least 1979 and much earlier I suspect, every Thursday dinner was outside. It was still prepared by the kitchen, but served by the rest of the staff. For a long time, it was a strict rotation of Mexican fiesta (Tacos) and Hawaiian Luau (ham and pineapple). The troops were encourage to return to their camp sites, dress up in Mexican/Hawaiian garb, and then return for the cookout. I remember them generally being in campcraft and the picnic grove. Camp stopped doing it when they made Thursdays mandatory outpost days. From 1988 until it ended, the menu and theme varied widely (including pizza's on one occasion, hot dogs and/or hamburgers frequently)."
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Recognition
Being at camp is a hectic though fun experience. And for those who exhibit leadership skills, devotion to their goals and unswerving ambition to excel in all that they do will literally be rewarded for making the camping program fun and enriching for all around them.
- Camp John H. Ware III Recognition
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- Camp Horseshoe Recognition
For all the hard work shown in a week down at Summer Camp, Scouts (and Scouters) have been recognized throughout the years with unique awards.
- Silver Buckle Award
This award is bestowed to the Scout who best exemplifies the Scout Oath and Law during his week at camp. The Scout is chosen by his peers and is awarded the Silver Buckle at the closing of the Saturday Night campfire.
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1919 through the 1930s Staff
We have some faces but not many names.
- Camp Lafayette Staff
Camp Lafayette was the first CCC Camp and was located at Icedale. It served as the Council Camp in 1919 and 1920 before being replaced by Camp Rothrock.
- 1920s Rothrock Staff
Camp Rothrock was the Council Camp prior to Horseshoe and served our Scouts from 1921 through 1927.
- 1928-29 Staff
Photographs and memories of the staff that served in the first two years of Camp Horseshoe.
- Early 1930's Staff
Memories of the staff during the early 30s (1930 through 1934) - both 2 legged and 4 legged!
- Late 1930's Staff
A collection of staff memorabilia from the late 30's (1935 through 1939)
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1940s and 50s Staff
The Camp Staffs during the '40s and '50s helped the Camp evolve more toward the HSR of today as new buildings (the Health Lodge, Headquarters and OA Lodge) were constructed and the Explorer Base was opened.
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1960s Staff
A room full of great exhibits from the 1960s Summer Camp Staffs. OK, it's not a 'room full' yet but hopefully through member contributions, the 1960s Staff room will be full of the memories that made that period an awsome time to work at camp!
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1970s Staff
A room full of great exhibits from the 1970s Summer Camp Staffs.
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1980s Staff
A room full of great exhibits from the 1980s Summer Camp Staffs.
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1990s Staff
A room full of great exhibits from the 1990s Summer Camp Staffs.
- 1990 Camp Staff
The Camp Staff's 1990 Year in Review
- 1991 Camp Staff
Camp Staff memories from 1991.
- 1992 Camp Staff
A cross section of wonderful displays regarding the 1992 Camp Horseshoe staff.
- 1993 Camp Staff
A cross section of wonderful displays regarding the 1993 HSR Reservation staff.
- 1994 Camp Staff
A cross section of wonderful displays regarding the 1994 Camp Horseshoe and Camp Ware staffs.
- 1995 Camp Staff
A cross section of wonderful displays regarding the 1995 Camp Horseshoe and Camp Ware staffs.
- 1996 Camp Staff
A cross section of wonderful displays regarding the 1996 Camp Horseshoe staff.
- 1997 Camp Staff
A cross section of wonderful displays regarding the 1997 Camp Horseshoe and Camp Ware staffs.
- 1998 Camp Staff
A cross section of wonderful displays regarding the 1998 Camp Horseshoe and Camp Ware staff.
- 1999 Camp Staff
A cross section of wonderful displays regarding the 1999 Camp Horseshoe staff.
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2000s Staff
A room full of great exhibits from the 2000s Summer Camp Staffs.
- 2000 Camp Staff
A cross section of wonderful displays regarding the millenium Camp Horseshoe and Camp Ware staffs.
- 2001 Camp Staff
A cross section of wonderful displays regarding the 2001 Camp Horseshoe and Camp Ware staffs.
- 2002 Camp Staff
A cross section of wonderful displays regarding the 2002 Camp Horseshoe staff.
- 2003 Camp Staff
A cross section of wonderful displays regarding the 2003 Camp Horseshoe staff.
- 2004 Camp Staff
A cross section of wonderful displays regarding the 2004 Camp Horseshoe staff.
- 2005 Camp Staff
A cross section of wonderful displays regarding the 2005 Camp Horseshoe staff.
- 2006 Camp Staff
A cross section of wonderful displays regarding the 2006 Camp Horseshoe staff.
- 2007 Camp Staff
A cross section of wonderful displays regarding the 2007 Camp Horseshoe staff.
- 2008 Camp Staff
A cross section of wonderful displays regarding the 2008 Camp Horseshoe staff.
- 2009 Camp Staff
A cross section of wonderful displays regarding the 2009 Camp Horseshoe and Camp Ware staffs.
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Staff Memorabilia
A room full of great memorabilia from the Summer Camp staffs throughout the years.
- Staff Shirts
A chronological display of the various designs and colors exhibited by the staff over the years.
- Staff & Leader Mugs
Each year Horseshoe Scout Reservation produces a Leader's Mug to commemorate the Troop Leaders and Camp Staff that makes HSR a success. Here is a collection of those mugs.
- Camp Staff Hats
With each new year brings a new theme, and sometimes the camp staff issues a hat to commemorate the logo of the year.
- Staff Photos
A chronological display of camp staff photos since 1978 when formal staff photos began being taken.
- Staff Neckerchiefs
Staff neckerchiefs for Camp Horseshoe have been worn for many years with the unique triangle designs and revolving plaid patterns. Camp Ware has adopted various designs over the years, with the recent being artist-rendered round patches on a solid color.
- Camp Horseshoe Staff Plaques
Each camping season, a staff plaque is constructed to commemorate the 7 long weeks of programming that the camp staff has seamlessly pulled off. Often captured in the physical presence of the plaque are humorous events, inside jokes, hyperbolic characterizations or anniversary logos that made that camping season a unique experience.
- Camp Ware Staff Plaques
Often tied to a particular program theme, the Camp Ware Staff plaques since the mid 1990s have been constructed by Bob Fisher and show great artistic expertise in capturing the spirit of a camping season.
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Staff Leaders and Recognition
With any succesful organization, strong leadership guides it to achieve great things. These exhibits exemplify that leadership as well as list the recognition bestowed upon those who went above and beyond the call of duty.
- Directors and Rangers
A listing of the individuals who have led the Chester County Council's summer camping program since 1927.
- Camp Staff Recognition
Working at summer camp takes a special type of person, dedicated to living up to the Scout Law and Oath and putting smiles on faces. Those who distinguish themselves amongst all the special folks who have worked at camp over the years have been honored with several types of awards.
- Camp Horseshoe Area Directors
Each area at camp needs qualified leadership to provide a smooth, functioning department capable of delivering quality program, food or maintenance. This exhibit lists the directors of those departments throughout the years.
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HSR Training
Scouting isn't anything without qualified youth and adult leadership. HSR has played a large role in hosting many training programs to develop the skills of its leaders.
- Wood Badge
Wood Badge is a training course for Scouters which finally results in their receiving a certificate, a small neckerchief, a leather slide, and two small wooden beads on a leather thong. Lord Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting, directed the first course in 1919 and gave each of the participants one of the beads which he had captured from the African chieftain Dinizulu. Thus did the course name develop, for its symbol was literally a badge of wood. Here are some displays of the various Wood Badge Courses that have taken place at HSR over the years.
- Scoutmaster Fundamentals
The prerequisite program to Woodbadge, Scoutmaster Fundamentals does exactly as promised: provides new adult leaders with the basic tools for proficiency in outdoor camping as well as teaches the basics of the patrol method and troop organization.
- Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills
The Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills Training program consists of an overnight camping experience where Adult Leaders get put into the shoes of new scouts to learn the patrol method as well as basic Tenderfoot - First Class outdoor skills.
- TLT / JLT / YLT
The Youth Leadership Training program (formerly Junior Leadership Training prior to 2004 and Troop Leader Training back in the 70s and early 80s) takes promising young Scouts from troops and crews throughout the council and provides them with an intensive two weekend seminar similar to the adult Wood Badge course.
- Show 'n Do
Call it Show 'n Do, Showando or Show And Do, this training event was held at various locations around the county including Camp Jubilee. It consisted of hands on training for Junior and adult leaders in outdoor skills and games.
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Special Events
Over the years, Horseshoe Scout Reservation has been fortunate to host special events ranging from OA Conclaves to foreign Scouts Jamborees. This room is dedicated to those occasions.
- Polish Jamboree
Horseshoe Scout Reservation hosted the Polish Scouts in Exile Jamboree in 1988.
- Irish Jamboree
In 2000, over 200 boys and girls from County Cork, Ireland visited Camp Ware for two weeks of fun and adventure.
- Norwegian Scout Visit
In 1973, Scouts from Norway visited Camp Horseshoe.
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Special Summer Programs
While HSR prides itself on having one of the best Cub and Boy Scout programs around, the talents of Scouting volunteers and staff are often suited to facilitate the needs of other interests and organizations hoping to provide a fun, outdoor program of their own. Here are the special events that HSR accomodates or has accomodated in the past.
- Special Camporee
The Chester County Council hosts the Special Camporee each year at Camp John H. Ware III to provide disabled individuals with the chance to learn and experience all the wonder of the Scouting program.
- Science Camp
Held each summer at Camp John H. Ware III, participants spend a week earning merit badges and gaining insight into numerous science fields such as electronics, aviation, engineeing, medicine and chemistry.
- Venture Week
Also known as V-Week, Venture Week was started in 2008 at Camp Ware to provide Venture Scouts with an opportunity to try lots of high adventure activities - such as C.O.P.E., Kayaking, Climbing, Caving and Pistol Shooting - as well as some off-the-beaten-track type things like wilderness first-aid, graphic design and pottery.
- HSRAA Reunions
A great exhibit full of videos and photos of the yearly HSRAA Reunion that celebrates the spirit of the Horseshoe and the comraderie of the alumni.
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Winter Camping
The Horseshoe Scout Reservation has always enjoyed an active winter camping program and the following exhibits are a testament to the spirit of camping in frigid temperatures.
- The Winter Camping Experience
Whether it's chopping wood or hiking the trails, the winter camp experience offers something different for everyone. Cold weather camping, rifle shooting and orienteering courses are but a few of the other activities that round out Winter Camping at HSR.
- Winter Camping Patches
Each year, Chester County Council issues a new patch for participants of the CCC winter camping program to purchase. Octoraro Lodge #22 does so also on occasions. Troops and other organizations occasionally issue patches of their own for their winter camping outings.
- Webelos Woods
Webelos Woods is designed to give first and second year Webelos Scouts and their parents a preview of the Boy Scouting experience, which highlights the "boy led" aspect of the program. At HSR, Webelos Woods is administered by capable youth from each district, highlighting a different theme each year.
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Octoraro Lodge #22
The Order of the Arrow has been an integral part of the camp maintenance and promotional activities of the camp since the lodge began in 1926. Octoraro #22 members have logged hundreds of thousands of man hours over the years to keep HSR looking great. Note: this room only contains artifacts pertaining to Octoraro #22's activities at HSR; for more information about the Order of the Arrow and Octoraro #22, visit www.octoraro22.org.
- Ordeal and Service Weekends
To gain membership into the Order, candidates must complete an ordeal at camp during one of three weekends throughout the year, also known as service or ordeal weekends. Other members, who set the example for the ordeal candidates, also come to participate and help ready the camps (Horseshoe and Ware) for summer or winter lodging.
- Conclaves
Each year, members of Octoraro #22 convene for a section conclave which takes place in neighboring council camps and boast great training, activities, food, fun and fellowship. Every few years, Camp Horseshoe and Octoraro #22 play host to the conclave.
- Special Events
Octoraro 22 doesn't just hold service weekends at HSR - lots of other programs are held to celebrate Native-American pageantry, rehabilitate HSR trails, and so much more.
- Octoraro Memorabilia
This exhibits houses artifacts issued or pertaining to Octoraro Lodge 22 activities as they relate to Camp Horseshoe or Ware.
- OA Trail Crew
The OA Trail Crew was formed in 2007 to promote the much-needed rehabilitation of the HSR trail system. Though promoted and organized by the Octoraro Lodge #22, work and credit towards the OA Trail Crew award is open to anyone.
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Select the rooms that you would like to visit and start your virtual tour of the museum. As you
enter a room you will be presented with the directory of exhibits. Select those that you would
like to stroll through and continue your tour.
Members are encouraged to use the online submission to help the HSRAA continue to add to the Virtual
Museum content. Upload your pictures, video and audio recordings, documents and
other memories.
Looking for something specific? Use the Custom Google Search Engine to search the online archives of the HSRAA Virtual Museum.
Have some suggestions for new exhibits? Have information to share with the currator and editors? Drop us a note.
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