TEN YEARS OF SCOUTING WITH TROOP 123
Author of Article Unknown
Submitted by Jo Ann Carlson, November 17, 2010
Memories of Scouting with Troop 123. Submitted by John Roth, Jan. 19, 2018 The original Catholic Boy Scout Troop number 123 was organized in the year of 1928 in the city of Muscatine, with the following committeemen as its guiding geniuses: John Wessels, Henry Fayle and Joseph Roth. Charles Fifer was the first scoutmaster. The troop functioned in an excellent manner for a period of two years, during which time it was held to be an “A number 1” troop in the local scout area. In the year 1930, the scoutmaster resigned his position, and by 1932 the troop was completely disorganized and dissolved.
The reorganization of the Catholic Boy Scout troop took place in March of the year 1934, under the sponsorship of Laurent Council, Knights of Columbus. It was intended to be for boys of both St. Mathias and St. Mary’s parish, for a troop organized about 1932 in the latter parish had not succeed to the point of registration. Accordingly, on April 30, 1934, the following committeemen were registered: Harold Koenigsaecker, chairman; William Kook, Ray Brown, Rev. V.A. Walsh, Rev. Leo Kuebrick. Scoutmaster was Howard Carl, assisted by Francis Pallischeck. Charter member of the troop were: Robert Klein, Francis Angell, Robert Jehring, John Baker, Robert Witte, Francis Milder, Gerald Blaesing, James Lambert Cross, Phillip Steinbaugh, and Paul Roth.
The first major activity—a foretaste of many happy experiences in store for the many boys who then and since have belonged to the troop—was an over-night hike on May 30th to Angell’s cottage on the Cedar River. In June of that same year, the troop won fourth place in a camporee at Weed Park. After the usual summer months’ lag, a new group of boys put fresh enthusiasm and life into the troop, for in October began the serious effort at having a real troop, with fifty-two regular meetings being held, Tuesday evening being regular meeting night for the boys at the Knights of Columbus hall. Among the major activities were a river trip through the locks of Dam #16, then under construction. This excursion was sponsored by the local district, with the conveyance being a huge barge. Hiking also was prominent on the list of activities that year, with some eight all-day hikes being taken. There was a scout party for the Knights of Columbus and scout Dads at the Knights of Columbus hall with an attendance of fifty. Scoutmaster Carl completed his first two training courses. The troop committee sponsored a card party, said activity netting the sum of slightly more than ten dollars for the troop. Our troop also functioned at the installation ceremonies of troop #124, sponsored by the local Episcopalian church. On December 9th, the troop attended Mass and Holy Communion in a body with the local Knights of Columbus at St. Mathias Church. New Year’s Eve the troop held the first of many enjoyable and annual watch parties.
1935 In observance of scout week, the troop attended Mass and Communion at St. Mary’s Church on February 10. On February 22, we sent representatives to attend the Catholic Boy Scout rally of the Davenport diocese at Iowa City. The enrollment of the Catholic troops of the diocese at that time was as follows:
Buffalo Bill area Davenport: Troop 15 Sacred Heart 38 members Davenport: Troop 20 Saint Paul 26 members Davenport: Troop 35 Saint Mary 22 members Davenport: Troop 40 Saint Vincent 13 members Muscatine: Troop 123 Knights of Columbus 23 members Ottumwa area Ottumwa: Troop 13 Sacred Heart 23 members Ottumwa: Troop 10 Saint Mary 15 members Iowa City area Iowa City: Troop 10 Saint Patrick 24 members Iowa City: Troop 15 Saint Wenceslaus 14 members Iowa City: Troop 12 Saint Mary 12 members Southeastern Iowa area Burlington: Saint John 23 members Fort Madison: Saint Joseph 15 members Fort Madison: Saint Mary 26 members Fort Madison: Sacred Heart 29 members Keokuk: Saint Peter 14 members West Point: Saint Mary 26 members April 30 is the registration date for scout troops, and at the close of the first successful year, troop 123 registered sixteen new Scouts including Henry Madden, Joseph Lange, James Malloy, Robert Fuller, James Huff, Laurence Dwyer, Francis McGowan, John Garret, Donald Ping, Cyril Cottrell, Elmer Mapes, Bernard Montgomery, Raymond Simpson, Francis Peyerl, Paul Schumacher, and Robert Carl. The following from the charter member class were re-registered: Robert Klein, John Baker, Francis Milder and Gerald Blaesing. Of these boys, nine were second class scouts. Also, there were fourteen merit badges awarded. The troop charter for 1935 shows that Harold Koenigsaecker was chairman of the troop committee again, with Ray Brown and Bill Kook as the other members. Howard Carl again was scoutmaster. The troop had secured a “B” rating from the scout executive of the area, with special commendation for the advancement, outdoor program, growth, training and activities. It is to be noted that the Scoutmaster was unassisted in his work.
Major activities for this period consisted of a hike in May to Elfer’s Island; a most successful bingo party at the Knights of Columbus hall in that same month; a campfire visit to troop 124; and an overnight hike to Richmond’s Crossing in preparation and training for summer camp. Continued preparation for camp was followed in June by the making of frequent trips and hikes. A camporee was held at Weed Park on a patrol basis, and troop 123 rated second place.
Attendance at summer camp, known as Camp Minneyata, took place for the first time in the history of the troop during the summer of 1935, and that rare phenomenon, one hundred per cent enrollment, was achieved—at the very small cost of one dollar per boy, and there were eighteen boys. The boys, as is usual at summer camp, had the time of their lives!
In September, on Labor Day, the troop participated in an over-night hike to Brudtkuhl’s pasture. A heavy wind-storm and summer rain provided inspiration for a cabin, which was constructed later. The next feature of the year were a pair of parties, one of Hallowe’en at the scoutmaster’s home where many obtained their first taste of parched corn, and other being a Christmas gift and exchange. During all the meanwhile, of course, regular troop activities continued, with the second watch party being held at the Knights of Columbus hall, taking the form of a songfest. .
1936 On February 8, 1936, Bishop Rohlman invited the Catholic scouts of the Area to attend Mass at the Cathedral in Davenport, after which they were served a delicious breakfast as his guests. A heavy blizzard, one of many during that worst of winters, forced the fourteen scouts attending to come home by train.
On March 21, fourteen scouts attended the Scout Circus held in the Masonic temple, with over eight hundred persons present. April 26 witnessed the beginning of summer activities with a hike to Brudkuhl’s farm. A drenching rain turned the trip home into a sort of Rogers-Clark bog expedition. Registration took place on April 30, with the following committeemen; Art Begey, chairman; Rev. Leo Kuebrick, C.C. Cottrell, William Kook, and Rev. V.A. Walsh. Howard Carl again as Scoutmaster. Among the May activities of that year we have the following—a pair of hikes to Brudkuhl’s farm, with the second of the two being an over-night trip. On May 30, a memorial day service was held, and the graves of veterans buried at Saint Mary’s Cemetery were decorated. The Catholic Daughters of America sponsored a Mother’s Day celebration at St. Mathias with a special Mass, followed by breakfast at the Hotel.
In the latter part of June, there was a huge camporee at Weed Park, with a very large attendance and considerable merriment. On June 25th, the troop held a parents’ night and camp-fire, having Mr. Hiner, the scout executive, as their special guest. The event was held on St. Mathias hill, and was featured by the presentation of certificates, badges, and the troop charter. Seventeen attending scouts and their parents received inspiration from the Indian ceremony. Scoutmaster Carl was presented with a uniform.
In July, the scoutmaster and some fourteen of the scouts attended summer camp at Minneyata. Twelve of these scouts received camp awards. The August activities included a hike, and a stint as traffic policemen for the Mississippi Valley Fair in Davenport. December found the troop possessing a member who had achieved the rank of first class scout—James Huff, who thus was the first to attain that rank from troop 123. The end of December found the scouts busily engaged in a watch party at the Knights of Columbus Hall, and having an enjoyable time of it, as usual. .
1937 Among the chief activities in January, an interesting trip through the telephone office caused considerable comment among the boys, who perhaps never realized all that is behind the simple lifting of a receiver from its hook. The practical side of the month when the troop assisted in helping to collect and pack clothes for the relief of flood sufferers in the lower Mississippi Valley. The troop attended an investiture ceremony for troop 129, and gave a demonstration of fire by friction and by flint and steel. Early in February, the troop again assisted at an investiture ceremony, this time it was troop 130 at the American Legion hall. February 16 witnessed parents’ night, a small party being held at the Knights of Columbus hall, with Catholic girl scouts in attendance, and enjoying the various sketches and variety of entertainment offered.
There was a bean hike through Kautz’ bakery in March, and the boys discovered why bakeries have such a delicious odor about them. There was also a bean hike in the early part of April, to discover the inner workings of a newspaper establishment, namely, the Muscatine Journal and News Tribune. April was also given over, on at least two occasions, to hikes to Smalley’s pasture. Nature threw one strike in the form of rain for the first one, but the second proved a tremendous sunshiny success.
In April the Scouts bade farewell to Father Walsh, assistant pastor of Saint Mathias, whose general interest and genial companionship had endeared him to the boys, and made them lastingly indebted to him. In token of their appreciation of his efforts on their behalf, he was presented with a pair of scout book-ends. The occasion also marked the beginning of Father John Morrissey’s six-year tenure of office of assistant pastor at St. Mathias and treasurer of troop 123. Since Father Morrissey was himself an Eagle Scout, he received an eager welcome from his brother scouts.
The April registration of the troop found William Kook, chairman of the committeemen, being assisted by Leonard Fuller, H.J. Koenigsaecker, C.C. Cottrell, and A.C. Begey. Howard Carl continued to hold the highly important role of scoutmaster—the spur of the troop and its leader. Highlights of the month of May were an investiture ceremony. In charge of Kenneth Richards, and a camporee at Weed Park, with troop 123 finishing in second place.
Having decided to send a representative to the National Jamboree at Washington D.C., it was found necessary to raise sufficient funds for the trip. Accordingly, on June 12, the mothers of troop 123 conducted a highly successful bake sale at Batterson’s store, with more than sixty-five dollars being cleared. All thanks to the ladies who contributed so generously their interest, their time, and their gifts, both monetary and culinary. Particularly, the scouts are grateful to Mrs. Leonard Fuller, chairman, and to her assistants, Mrs. Harold Koenigsaecker, Mrs. Harry Oberhaus, Mrs. Don Ping, Mrs. Salek, Mrs. Schumacker, Mrs. Henry Schnedler, and Mrs. Ray L. Brown. The money which these ladies enabled the troop to realize, together with some twenty-odd dollars made on the sale of junk plus a bingo party or two, was used in part to send the representative to the Jamboree, and the balance went towards a troop cabin which was planned for immediate construction on Brudkuhl’s fam. James Huff, who had advanced to the rank of Star Scout, won the honor of attending the Jamboree as the representative of the troop. From the account which James has given us, he had a wonderful time indeed, spending two full weeks away from home, seeing some splendid scenery in this beautiful country, and partaking in one of the most brilliant exhibitions of scouting ever given in the United States.
While James Huff was enjoying his jamboree in Washington, troop 123 was not idle, but busily engaged in the construction of their scout troop cabin, on the farm of Mr. Brudkuhl, who donated a very splendid site. Thanks to Mr. Dale, former scoutmaster of troop 124, the scouts were able to purchase a building for just five dollars which very ably suited both special and financial requirements. The boys dismantled the small building, and thanks to the kindness of Mr. Thomas, manager of the Hawkeye Lumber Co., were able to transport it to the farm on a lumber company truck. The same company also furnished us with some choice used lumber, as did Barry-Althaus Co., and gave us a reduced price on new lumber that was needed. Work was begun at once, mainly at night and on one or two Sundays, with William Kook and Cal Cottrell furnishing transportation, as also labor! Mr. J.C. Bishop furnished three of the windows, Mr. W.E. Dale a like number, and Mrs. Bessie Hayes donated one window. Mr. L. M. Fuller furnished the screens. Mr. Brudkuhl supplied us with the post needed for piling. Construction problems were solved mainly with the help of Mr. W.E. Dale. Monsignor Hannor donated nineteen cots which were made into bunks. Total cost of same amounted to about sixty dollars. The twelve by twenty feet cottage was dedicated, though not quite completed, on October 5, 1937, with approximately one hundred twenty-fix persons attending. A pot-luck supper was enjoyed after dedicated, and a campfire was held. Father Kuebrick, Father Morrissey, Kenny Richards, and Mr. C.L. Young gave short talks on scouting, with special emphasis on its character building and general up-lifting influence as evidenced in the splendid work done in preparation for the occasion. The final talk was given by the scoutmaster, Howard Carl, who expressed his satisfaction at work well done. Although most of the Camp Minneyata, and among their most treasured memories will be that of a certain mud fight. With the cabin completed, naturally there were several hikes that fall to spend a bit of time on the site. The first hike was on October 12th, and the first overnight hike was November 10th. Both were mightily enjoyed.
In the early part of December, a pot-luck supper for parents and scouts of the city of Muscatine was held, with entertainment by a magician, who mystified even the wiser scouts. The event was held at the Elks’ Lodge. At Christmas time, our scouts helped to collect clothing for needy children. .
1938 The new year was started in great fashion with a hike to the scout cabin on the very first day. January 21 was an important date in the history of our troop, for on that day we received notification of an “A” rating by the national organization for the year of 1937. Each scout received a purple star to signify this ranking.
The scouts began swimming classes at the Y.M.C.A. with Wednesday night reserved for them, and at the small cost of one dollar per boy for the year. The classes, it goes without saying, were enthusiastically attended, for who doesn’t like swimming?
All the boy and girl scout troops of the city assembled at Jefferson school gym on February 3 for a pot-luck supper. The new assistant scout executive of the area, Mr. Frank Swisher, was introduced at this event.
Another highly successful bake sale was held about the middle of February for the purpose of obtaining money to apply towards furniture for the new scout room in the Knights of Columbus hall. Excavation began for this room which is the basement in the building, and an ideal spot for a meeting room. The ladies on this committee included Mrs. L. Fuller, Mrs. Ray Brown, Mrs. George Milder, and Mrs. Harry Oberhaus.
In obedience to the twelfth rule of scouting—a scout is reverent—the members of the troop committee and of the troop itself attended Mass and Communion in a body of St. Mathias Church during National Scout Week.
May 9 being Mother’s Day, the boy scouts and girl scouts of the two Catholic parishes received Mass and Communion in a body at St. Mathias, after which breakfast was served to one hundred and ten persons in the St. Mary’s hall by the ladies of the parish. This event was under the sponsorship of the Catholic Daughters of America. Later in May, the scouts had their annual parents’ night with some sixty persons present to hear a talk by Monsignor Hannon, in which he discussed the relationship of scouting to the Church.
Committeemen for the new Scout year were: William Kook, chairman, assisted by C.C. Cottrell, L.M. Fuller, L.W. Flannery, and Art Begey. The troop was again to be guided by Howard Carl as scoutmaster.
The month of June witnessed two important events. First of all, the troop received the receipts--$26.00—from the Passion Play sponsored by both parishes of the city. And that same month, troop 123 registered the first explore scouting unit in the entire Buffalo Bill area.
The annual picnic for the Catholic boy and girl scouts and their families was held on July 24 at the cabin. The Catholic Daughters and the Knights of Columbus sponsored the affair.
The entire membership of Boy Scout troop 123, comprising some 25 scouts and 10 scouters, assembled at the troop cabin on July 25 for a farewell meeting in honor of Rev. Leo V. Kuebrick, who had been transferred to St. Mary’s church at Fort Madison to be assistant pastor there. The program consisted of songs and several talks while gathered about an open camp fire. Scout John Garrett told of Father Kuebrick’s work in helping to organize troop 123 four years previously, and of his assistance in maintaining it since that time. Scoutmaster Howard Carl presented Father Kuebrick with a fine statuette in recognition of his “unselfish service to our scouts and to all scouts”. Father Kuebrick, in response, urged the scouts to be loyal to their scoutmaster and to their troop.
July also witnessed an enjoyable time in the form of attendance at Camp Minneyata by some eighteen of the scouts. Howard Carl and Bob Carl received a reward for four years’ attendance at camp. James Chasteen, Paul Schumacker, and Paul Vallet received an award for having been at camp for three consecutive years. Two year award winners were Richard Oberhaus and Art Steinbaugh, and one year award winners were William Archer, Gene Fuller, J. Hahnbaum, JohnKallfenbach, George Lindle, Robert Milder, Pat Minear, and Louis Nester. One of the highlights of camp was a visitation by Bishop Rohlman of Davenport.
August was the month which witnessed the arrival of Father Mannhardt to be assistant at St. Mary’s Church. August also was the time for the all-day hike to the cabin, and some little time was spent in working on that edifice. Fifteen of our scouts attended the Mississippi Valley Fair at Davenport, where they assisted other scouts in the directing of traffic. Some of those experienced officers marched in the Labor Day parade in Muscatine, and assisted in directing traffic at the Soap Box Derby.
Later in September, Paul Murphy, scoutmaster of troop number 15 at Sacred Heart in Davenport, brought his troop to Muscatine where they were entertained by troop 123 at the troop cabin. After the supper, the Davenport troop presented a three-act play entitled “Friday the 13th”. A capacity audience of some three hundred persons was present in St. Mary’s hall, and was quite appreciative of the Davenport troop’s thespian effort.
The early fall months found the troop very active, especially working at advancement, and with a great many all-day hikes and over-night hikes to the cabin. During this fall period, also, the scout room under the K.C. hall was completed. The foundations, floors, walls, etc. were constructed by Mr. Edward Blaesing, contractor, who unselfishly devoted much interest, time, and equipment to the completion of the work. The delayed work was taken over and completed under the auspices of the Catholic Daughters with the understanding that the room was to be known as the Catholic Scout room for all boy and girl scouts of the city. Cost of the finished product was estimated at fifteen hundred dollars. Activities for the year closed with a Christmas gift exchange party held at the club room. .
1939 The formal opening of the new scouting room was held on January 19, with guest speakers for the evening including the Rev. William Shell, diocesan director of Catholic scouts in the Davenport diocese, James Hiner of Davenport, Boy Scout executive of the Buffalo Bill area; Frank Swisher, assistant Boy Scout executive, C.H. Young, chairman of the Muscatine county district of Boy Scouts, and Miss Gertrude Steiner, itinerant director of Girl Scouting. The Rev. C.D. Mannhardt of St. Mary’s parish acted as master of ceremonies. After the singing of “America”, which opened the program, a salute was given to the American flag. The girl scouts of St. Mary’s parish gave a silhouette skit entitled “Ferdinand the Bull”. Boy Scout troop number 123 rendered two songs, with Pat Minear as soloist. Then Mrs. L.P. Flannery, past grand regent of the Catholic Daughters, who was in office at the time the organization sponsored the Catholic girl scout movement here, spoke in behalf of the Catholic daughters. Father Snell spoke works of encouragement and commendation, asking for continued cooperation. Father Morrissey, assistant pastor of St. Mathias and the one responsible for training of Scout leaders for the 22 troops of the city, introduced the three boy scout executives. Father N.J. Peiffer, pastor of St. Mary’s church, offered his congratulations in a brief speech. The St. Mathias girl scouts then enacted a pantomime, following which Miss Steiner review girl scout work briefly, and …
…by scouting. The leaders of the various interested scout troops, Mr. Howard Carl of troop 123, Mrs. Joe Bernick of troop 7, girl scouts, and Miss Gertrude Lange of girl scout troop number 6, received a key to the new scout room from Msgr. W.L. Hannon, setting as official representative of the Knights of Columbus and Catholic Daughters. The dedication closed with the entire group joining in the rendition of the hymn of thanksgiving “Holy God, We Praise Thy Name”.
The annual Rotary hobby show was held at the Y.M.C.A. on Feb. 3 and 4, with troop 123 entering a handicraft merit badge display and knot board. Scout John Kleffenbach entered a beautiful display of native and foreign butterflies and moth, which exhibit received a “first” award.
Six hundred boy and girl scouts, parents and guests attended a pow-wow at the Jefferson school auditorium on Friday, February 5, with Ralph Hubbard of Colorado, an authority on Indian life, as the principal speaker. Our troop received recognition for maintaining its “A” classification; George Lindle received his second class award at this meeting.
An advancement hike was held along the river above the completed dam number 16, with some eighteen boys in attendance. A tour of the dam was made, and the boy’s paid close attention to the explanations proffered them by the attendant.
A report was given, on February 27, of the results of the weekly swimming classes held at the Y. during the past year. The scoutmaster and some of the older scouts furnished the instruction. Twenty-four boys were enrolled, and spent a total of five hundred and thirty-one hours in the pool. Total cost per hour—three cents! Those who succeeded in learning to swim were: William Archer, Gene Fuller, Robert Milder, Pat Minear, Richard Oberhaus, Arthur Steinbaugh, and George Lindle, and John Klaffenbach. March witnessed a classic ping-pong tournament conducted by Fathers Morrissey and Mannhardt in the new scout hall. Arthur Steinbaugh won first place, with Paul Schumacher taking second.
On April 30, 1939, the scout investiture ceremony, sanctioned by the National Catholic Committee on Scouting, and compiled by the Rev. Louis Barcelo, C.S.C., special national field scout commissioner, and the Rev. Edward Fuller, S.J., chaplin, troops 92 and 300 of Washington, D.C., was presented for the first time in the Muscatine district on Sunday afternoon in St. Mathias church. The theme of the ceremony is “the relation of the Church to scouting”. Arrangements for the program of the Catholic boy and girl scouts were under the direction of the scout leaders: Rev. J.J. Morrissey, Rev. C.D. Mannhardt, Howard Carl, William Kook, Mrs. L.P. Flannery, Gertrude Lange, and Mrs. Harry Burger. The program was as follows: processional; the blessing of colors by the Most Rev. Henry P. Rohlman, D.D., Bishop of Davenport; sermon by the Rev. J.A. Theobald, scout chaplain and member of the Dubuque Archdiocesan committee on scouting; scout oath administered by Rev. C.D. Mannhardt; blessing of insignia and investiture in badges by Bishop Rohlman; scout laws administered by the Rev. J.J. Morrissey; benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament and act of consecration singing of “America”, and recessional. Music was rendered by the St. Mathias choir, with the organists being Miss Loretta Cottrell, and Catherine Fuller. Color bearers were James Malloy, James Chasteen, George Lindle, and Vincent Gaeta. Scout leaders invested included: Boy Scout troop 123, chairman, William Kook; committeemen Rev. J.J. Morrissey, Rev. C.D. Mannhardt, Arthur Begey, Leonard Fuller, C.C. Cottrell, and L.W. Flannery. Also invested were Scoutmaster Howard Carl, and his assistant John Baker. For Girl Scout troop number 6, chairman Mrs. Mary Flannery; committeewomen Mrs. Ralph Will, Mrs. George Lindle, Captain Gertrude Lange, and Lieutenant Mrs. G. Koenigsaecker, Jr. For Girl Scout troop number 7, chairman Mrs. Sadie Bielefeld, committeewomen Mrs. Leo Witteman, Mrs. George Milder, Captain Mrs. Harry Burger, Lieutenant Miss Betty Randall, and district committee representative Mrs. M.M. Wessels. Scouts participating in the investiture, a total of 86, were as follows:
Boy Scout troop 123—William Archer, William Brown, Robert Carl, James Chateen, John Cottrell, Robert Doty, Robert Fuller, Richard Fuller, Vincent Gaeta, Robert Hillmer, James Huff, John Klaffenbach, Harold Koenigsaecker, Cletus Kurriger, George Lindle, James Malloy, Robert Milder, Patrick Minear, Richard Oberhaus, Dennis O’Leary, Harold Price, Paul Schumacher, Arthur Steinbaugh and Paul Valett.
Girl Scout troop 6 “Star of Bethlehem”—Mary L. Bennett, Cecilia Callas, Patty Carl, Alice Chayka, Cheryl Cottrell, Dorothy Fagan, Catherine Flannery, Mary E. Flannery, Patricia Fox, Janet Fuller, Margaret Hotka, Elaine Jarrard, Catherine Klein, Mary Klepper, Margaret Lange, Mary Ann Motier, Donna J. Rann, Jane Reindl, Kitty Anne Wettengel, and Dorothy Will.
Girl Scout troop 7 “Lily of the Mohawks”—Jean Begey, Mary Begey, Catherine Begey, Lucille Bielefeld, Bernice Blaesing, Barbara Cockerill, Dolores Fabrizius, Dorothy Fuller, Doris Giessregen, Patricia Hoffman, Antoinette Huff, Glendola Hume, Patricia Kurriger, Kathleen Neff, Marian Pallischeck, Marcella Peyerl, Phyllis Doran, Betty O’Leary, Patricia Caple, Jeanne Oberhaus, and Theresa Huff.
The investiture ceremony was followed by a banquet held in the Rose Room of the Muscatine Hitel, which was attended by 125 scouts and friends, at which Bishop Rohlman was guest of honor. Principal speaker of the evening was the Rev. William Snell, with talks also by the pastors of the local churches, Msgr. W.L. Hannon, and the Rev. N.J. Peiffer. Scout officials present were James Hiner, scout executive, Frank Swisher, assistant executive, and C.H. Young, district chairman. Charters for the year 1939-1940 wore presented to girl scout leaders Mrs. Harry Burger and Miss Gertrude Lange, and to boy scout committeeman William Kook and Scoutmaster Carl. A personal letter from James West, national scout executive, commending Howard Carl for completion of ten years in scout work was also presented. Among out-of town clergy present for the occasion were the Rev. Geo. Schulte, Loras College, Dubuque, the Rev. P.D. Moore of Nichols, the Rev. P.C. Wetzstein of Toronto, the Rev. V.A. Walsh of North English, and the Rev. Leo. V. Kuebrich of Fort Madison.
On May 30, 1939, troop 123 placed flags and wreaths on the veterans’ graves at St. Mary’s Cemetery, thus keeping up a four year tradition. The various veterans; organizations furnished aforesaid flags and wreaths.
Previous to this, in the month of May, the scouts had taken an overnight hike to the troop cottage, with two of the committeemen accompanying them. Also twelve of the scouts entered the scouts entered the Muscatine County field-meet and rural play day at West Liberty Fair Grounds and won major honors in all but one contest.
Troop 123 participated in observing the Flag Day ceremony at Weed Park and at the Court of Honor held in conjunction with that event. Featuring the program was the scout organization of Fayette, Iowa, presenting “Iowa, Star Number 29, Speaks”, directed by Scoutmaster Rev. Mr. John D. Clinton, using some fifteen of his scouts. There were two hundred persons present for the ceremony, and among others receiving awards were the following form troop 123—first class to Robert Milder; merit badges to James Malloy in bird study and pathfinding; to Richard Oberhaus and Robert Milder in music; an explorer scout award to James Malloy for scout craftsman, scout citizen and scout woodman. In the evening, the sponsors of the ceremony, including some one hundred twenty scout leaders, American Legion members and their wives were entertained at the home of Charles Young, 1610 Mulberry, with regional boy scout executive, Mr. Harold Lewman of Kansas City, Mo., feature speaker of the evening. Entertainment with games and serving of refreshments brought a very pleasant evening to its close.
Our troop put on an Indian ceremony and “poison water” stunt for the entertainment at the lawn social at Park Place School for the benefit of boy and girl scouts troops of that community on June 30, 1939. The program was well received by the large and appreciative audience, so the boys felt that their efforts were quite worthwhile.
Again, all credit to the mothers for their help in sponsoring a bake sale to raise funds for the summer camp. It was a splendid success, thanks to the fine work of canvassing and selling done by the ladies. Sixteen members of Boy Scout troop no. 123 proudly displayed the much coveted “M” awards received for the completion of a balanced program of winning, nature study, and handicraft at the Scout camp near Dixon, Iowa. Those receiving the awards were Robert Carl, James Malloy and Howard Carl, five years; James Chasteen, four year; Richard Oberhaus, three years; Robert Milder, Gene Fuller, George Lindle, John Klaffenbach, two years; John Hall, Cletus Kurriger, Robert Doty, Vincent Gaeta, H. Koenigsaecker, Jr., John Cottrell, and Roger Lindle, one year. Black Buffalo wards were received by Robert Carl and James Chasteen, and merit badges went to James Malloy, painting; Robert Carl, metal work; James Chasteen, metal work; Richard Oberhaus, cooking; Robert Milder, cooking, first aid and metal work; and Cletus Kurriger, cooking and first aid. On stunt night, the troop received first award for their shadowgraph of the Minneyata zoo.
The senior scouting patrol of troop 123 made a trip by canoe from Davenport to Muscatine Friday and Saturday, as the first Senior Scout activity of the Muscatine district. The scouts left for Davenport by automobile Friday night, and arrived back in Muscatine at one o’clock the following day (Sept. 16, 1939). Those participating in the trip were Scoutmaster Howard Carl, Junior Assistant Scoutmaster James Malloy, Senior patrol leader Robert Carl, and patrol leader Richard Oberhaus.
Our troop partook again in the Muscatine Hallowe’en Parade, helping in the distribution of candy tickets and of the candy itself. A good time was had by all, with the fully uniformed scouts leading the way.
The troop had its annual Christmas exchange party, with the members each bringing a gift, and then drawing numbers to discover who was to be the lucky recipient of which gift. .
1940 During the early part of the year the troop made frequent hikes to its cabin, and on one of them acted as hosts to a Davenport troop, and the troop from Park Place. Both of these troops enjoyed the wiener roast very much, and expressed enthusiasm for the cottage, much to our pleasure.
In March sixteen boys, the Scoutmaster, and three of the committeemen took a “sightseeing” trip through the Muscatine County jail. Deputy Sheriff Jack Pace spent about an hour talking to the boys about various exciting events he has had since his inception of office. The boys were impressed with the necessity of obeying the laws to avoid becoming the deputy’s guest.
On April 30, the sixth annual meeting scout troop 123 was held at the Knights of Columbus hall in the form of a pot-luck supper and investiture ceremony. Mr. William Souder, scout executive of the Buffalo Bill Area, was guest of honor for the evening, and it was his first visit in his newly appointed capacity. Other guests were Frank Swisher, assistant scout executive, Harold Koenigsaecker, grand Knight of the troop sponsors, the Knights of Columbus, Robert Brown, scoutmaster of Conesville, and our troop committeemen. The Rev. D.C. Mannhardt acted as chairman of the meeting and toastmaster at which Art Begey, troop chairman, received the troop charter for the new re-registered year from Mr. Souder. The other committeemen, Lawrence Flannery, William Kook, and C.C. Cottrell were also present for the event. The Rev. J.J. Morrissey, scout commissioner, gave an inspiring talk. Group singing was accompanied by Mrs. Joseph Bernick. The investiture ceremony was conducted by Howard Carl, scoutmaster, with the help of James Huff, assistant scoutmaster. Those admitted to the rank of tenderfoot scouts were John Strain, Walter Hinkley, John Mendenhall and Harley Mills. Scout certificates of registration were presented by Scout Executive Souder to Scoutmaster Carl, who presented them to the members of the troop; Richard Oberhaus, Robert Milder, Patrick Minear, Roger Lindle, John Hall, James Chasteen, Harold Koenigsaecker, John Cottrell, Vincent Gaeta, Gene Fuller, Bill Archer, Cletus Kurriger, Robert Carl and George Lindle. Mr. Souder then presented Star Badges to Richard Oberhaus and Robert Milder, encouraging the troop to continue its achievement program. “Taps” was sung, and the scout blessing was recited by the troop as the closing event of the evening.
The early part of May saw the performance of two “bean” hikes and a work of charity. The hikes were through the Coca-Cola Bottling works, where the scouts saw the new equipment and sampled the resultant product; and another hike through the Huttig Manufacturing Company, where the boys observed the various operations necessary for the production of sash and doors. The work of charity was the cutting of grass on the “potter’s field” at St. Mary’s Cemetery.
The greater part of the month of June was spent in making various preparations for summer camp, including over-night hikes to our troop cabin, nature hikes, etc. This was to stand them in good stead because the troop conducted its own camp that year, thanks to Mr. Albert McKee, who permitted them to lease his beautiful country cottage, situated on the Mississippi about ten miles from Muscatine. The district council loaned us two canoes for the period from July 6 to July 13. Sixteen scouts attended, and all agreed that a wonderful time was had, thanks in great part to the services of Mr. Bill Moore and his wife, caretakers of the place. Also recognition is due to Norbert and Harry Oberhaus for their kindness in trucking equipment and food stuffs to the camp, giving us advice on what to buy, and then selling to the scouts at wholesale prices. Stunt night, held on Wednesday of that week of camp, was open to relatives and friends, and some seventy-five persons responded. The troop committee and parents all cooperated in a great measure to make the camp a success. Camp routine was patterned after that of the area camp, with James Huff, Robert Carl, Richards Oberhaus and Charles Morrissey as staff leaders. Waterfront activities were the chief attraction, special attention being paid to swimming, canoeing, sailing and fishing. The cottage was beautifully equipped with electricity, refrigerator, running water, bath, bottle gas, screened-in dining room, and two large screened-in porches. All in all, it was a huge success.
All during the entire summer, the two scout canoes were used to a great extent, and many a fine sail and paddle was had by one and all. Most certainly, the Father of Waters was not neglected.
We had our Labor Day over-night hike to the scout cabin again in the year of 1940, and once again it proved to be an enjoyable success. With Hallowe’en approaching, it was deemed fitting to have a “ghost” hike at Schaap-veld’s farm, with something like twenty boys and four men partaking. After this an October ghost visited the scouts in Schaapveld’s hay barn, and a shocking message was received over the telephone. The party closed with a watermelon feast, thanks to the Schaapvelds.
The year closed with the annual Christmas-time party, with the customary exchange of gifts. .
1941 Activities for this year did not get underway very early. However on May 8, some sixty-three persons attended a parents’ night program and investiture ceremony for troop 123 at the Knights of Columbus hall. The program opened with the singing of “America”, and Glen Custer, former Scout executive in this area, presented the troop charter to Arthur Begey, chairman of the troop committee. William Dale, pioneer scoutmaster of Muscatine, presented certificates and badges to the Scouts. Howard Carl, scoutmaster of the troop, presented advancement awards and gave recognition to the mothers present. A candlelight investiture ceremony followed. The rest of the evening was devoted to entertainment, including musical numbers and stunts. Glen Hinton played a guitar and sang, and was accompanied in singing Glen Custer. Refreshments were served. Scouts receiving badges at the meeting included John Strain, John Mendenhall, and John Hall, all second class; and Marvin Zybarth, Paul Kelly, Norris Hines, Francis Avesing, and John Schroeder.
Ten boys attended an afternoon hike at the scout cabin, where games were played, especially that wild and wooly “capture the flag”. A nature trip through the high ferns north and east of the cabin was held later on. After this, supper was served by each boy on second class scouting. ‘Twas a tired but happy group that returned home.
On the thirtieth of May, the scouts banded together and decorated the graves of the veterans at St. Mary’s cemetery. After this work, the boys went to the Mendehall home, and were guests of the Mendenhalls at an outside camp-fire breakfast of bacon and eggs. At one-thirty that afternoon, the troop hiked out to the Scout cabin for over-night and scout-work on requirements, such as tracking, etc., were passed. “Capture the flag” enjoyed prominence in the evening game, followed by songs around a camp-fire. On the following day, the boys worked on scout requirements until it was time to return home. Bob Carl was in charge of this over-night hike.
The scout troop went to Fairport on June 17, 1941 and went through the N.Y.A. Center there. We then engaged the N.Y.A. boys in a football game, lasting until dark, followed by a camp-fire with songs. After the fire died down a bit Mr. Glen Custer, former scout executive here, told two interesting stories. The boys returned home satisfied with a good outing.
There was a bake sale for the benefit of the scout troop conducted by the good mothers of the troop on June 28 and held in the Laurel Building. A goodly sum was realized to apply towards the camp fees for the boys, and the remainder of the sum was used for improvement on the scout cabin. Mrs. John Hall, Mrs. John Strain, and Mrs. Harry Oberhaus were co-chairmen. Others on the committee were Mrs. Ray Brown, Mrs. Joe Bernick, Mrs. Charles Hines, Mrs. G. G. Ryan, Mrs. M.B. Mendenhall, and Mrs. Zybarth. Thanks are owed to Mr. Zybarth and some of the scouts who did the calling for cakes, etc., for the bake sale. The mothers attended the first meeting in July to discuss the disbursement of the money from this ale. Details of camp were explained to them, so that they would appreciate what happened to their money, and they received miniature tenderfoot scout badges as rewards.
On July 13, 1941, ten boys and the scoutmaster left for Camp Minneyata. Those who went were John Hall, John Strain, John Mendenhall, John Schroeder, Roger Lindle, Walter Hinkley, Marvin Zybarth, Francis Avesing, Norris Hines, and Paul Kelly. The usual camp activities were followed by the boys, who worked to obtain their “M” awards. Roger Lindle and Walter Hinkley received their second class awards while at camp. All the boys in the troop earned their M award for good camping. Two of them, John Hall and Roger Lindle, received second year awards. Mr. Carl received his six-year camping award.
When the government put out a request for old aluminum, our troop responded at once to help in the house-to-house drive for that purpose. Those particularly interested were John Hall, John Schroeder, Paul Kelly; Marvin Zybarth, and Norris Hines. They spent the entire morning doing this work, a form of co-operation with the government. Two of these boys helped the city later on in the month by regulating traffic at the Soap Box Derby. They were John Schroeder and Marvin Zybarth.
Four scouts, John Schroeder, John Hall, Marvin Zybarth and Norris Hines, reported for duty in a continuation of the drive to gather aluminum, and they united with some fourteen other boys from different troops in the city. Roughly about 3000 pounds of aluminum was gathered by the bunch and taken to a central point, with the help of trucks. Then the boys were treated to pop and ice cream at the American Legion.
After the regular meeting on July 29, a treasure hunt was organized with the following participating; John Schroeder, Norris Hines, and Marvin Zybarth. The scoutmaster accompanied the group of boys seeking to track down the treasure so expertly hid by the committee named above, being led a merry chase from the aluminum bin at the City Hall to the cannon at the courthouse, then to a telegraph pole which directed them further to Jefferson field. On one of the goal posts was a note sending them on to the corner of Poplar and Orange, to Chayka’s grocery, Mad Creek bridge on Washington, and finally to Park avenue. A storm blew up just as they prepared to go to the flag-pole in Weed Park, so they were picked up by car and a bedraggled bunch of weary pirates, given their treasure—ice cream cones at Hetzler’s Dairy.
Regular meetings were held during the summer months, with the boys spending little time on other things than requirements, although occasionally taking time to put up posters urging the purchase of defense bonds and stamps.
In September, James Malloy was in charge of a group of boys who went hiking, also taking their dinner, which was cooked over an open fire. Towards the end of the month, a marshmallow roast was held in Weed Park. Regular meetings continued through October, with a class of tenderfoot boys being initiated, having completed their requirements.
The troop took its usual over-night Labor Day hike, with eleven members of the troop plus Bob Carl and the scout-master attending. Games were played, the boys worked on requirements, and just had a generally good time, especially when it came to supper, which was cooked right at the cabin.
Towards the end of December, a group of the scouts assisted in putting up Red Cross posters in the down-town section, which took an hour of their time. One of the important events of December, also, was the reception of second class scout badges by five of the boys. Many of the fathers and mothers of the troop attended this ceremony, and also heard an interesting talk by Father Morrissey. The final event of the month was the Christmas party. .
1942 The troop was off to a good start in 1942 with a skating party being held in place of the January 13 meeting. Plans were laid for a hike to be taken, and with Bob Carl in the load, said hike was held on January 25. The boys, seeking progress in cooking, cooked their own dinner. Also in January John Strain, Francis Avesing, and Marvin Zybarth were color-bearers in a patriotic ceremony before a St. Marty’s—St. Mathias basketball game. This same crew, plus Norris Hines, functioned again in the same capacity at the International Rotary lectures.
Many of the scouts from troop 123 attended an exhibition of coins at the coin club, which also featured displays of various hobbies of Muscatine scouts. Mr. Moore gave an interesting talk on the origin of money and its uses and after his lecture, souvenir coins were presented to all. There was also an interesting lecture on Indian arrow heads.
On Feb 5, there was a general play party given to all the boy scouts of Muscatine under the sponsorship of the activity committee. This party was held at Jefferson school gym, and its feature activities were the game of “steal the bacon” and a field meet. Donald Posten played some numbers on his guitar, and later refreshments were served.
During Boy Scout week, the feature program was an Honor Court held at the Little Theatre of the high school. Among troop members receiving honors were the following: second class awards to Roger Lindle, Walter Hinkley, Marvin Zybarth, Francis Avesing, John Schroeder, Paul Kelly, and Norris Hines. Merit badges in book-binding to John Strain and John Schroeder. Our troop was in charge of the pledge of allegiance to the flag rendered by all present. As part of the entertainment, three reels of motion pictures were presented, showing camp scenes, Sea Scout events, and events of Camp Minneyata.
On April 13, there was a hike by some nine of the boys who were in charge of the scoutmaster and Bob Carl. Tenderfoot scouts were given a trial in trailing, and many games were played. A delicious supper was cooked over open fires.
On April 21, the troop was honored by having one of its former members, and a former assistant scoutmaster, James Malloy, home from army life on furlough. Jim gave an interesting talk on various phases of army life as he had been finding it.
A pot-luck supper was enjoyed by all the scouts and their parents on May 5, the play following the supper. This thrilling mystery drama “Murder in the Cellar” preceded a group of songs, badges and awards given to tenderfoot scouts, plus several second class certificates to boys eligible for them.
A party was given at the home of Francis Avesing on May 18, thus surprising that gentleman on his thirteenth birthday. Games were played, refreshments served, and all in all, it was a very pleasant evening. Another event of May was a scavenger hunt on the occasion of the regular meeting night. The number three team on returning, found itself with the most points, hence the winner. May thirtieth found the boys working very industriously on the graves of the G.A.R. men, placing some fifty-eight flags on them. In June, Billy Carl and Walter HInkley assisted in tying bundles for the Red Cross.
The major part of the meeting of June 23 was devoted to discussions of plans for camp, and five days later some nineteen boys, together with Father Morrissey, Howard and Bob Carl, left for Minneyata. The main events of the different camp days happened as follows: the first evening was spent in renewing acquaintenanceships, inspecting, policing, etc.; the next day swimming was begun under the direction of Brother Drolet of St. Ambrose, and others began work on their “M” awards; the next few days were approximately the same, with the exception of canoeing instructions and a baseball game. Mass was celebrated every morning by Fathers Morrissey and Snell; July 4 of that week was parent visitation day, featured by a game of ball between the scouts and their fathers, with the latter taking it on the chin 4 to 3.
On August 18 Jack Zetler, Charles Yerrington, Paul Kelly, Norris Hines, Billy Carl, Bob Carl, Father Morrissey, Howard Carl, and John Hall took a canoe hike up the Mississippi. It was managed by going in relays and very much enjoyed by all the participants. In the early part of September, another canoe hike was held and proved very successful.
At the September 15 meeting patrols were formed with Marvin Zybarth as patrol leader, Joe Rauch as assistant of the cobra patrol, Walter Hinkley and Paul Kelly as assistants of the panther patrol.
Late in October, the troop went on a night hike to Elpher’s Island, where seventeen boys and the two leaders enjoyed a wiener roast and had a grand time.
In connection with the Community Chest drive, nine of the boys canvassed the town with hand-bills distributed from house to house. The following Sunday afternoon they helped with the delivery of messages to the Campaign Committee.
On November 11, an exciting treasure hunt was held which ended at 910 Newell Ave. where marshmallows were roasted and songs sung. The boys had great success in finding the treasure, although they used considerable time in the process of prating.
A total of forty-eight scouts and their parents assisted in a Christmas party and investiture ceremony. Robert Hines, Robert Lewig, Richard Kurriger, Hildred Hoffman, Marvin Simpson and George Burr was invested as tenderfoot scouts, receiving their badges and certificates. Father Morrissey directed games until Santa Claus arrived and presented the gifts brought by each person for exchange. Ice cream and cake followed, with taps ending a good time. .
1943 On January 13, two teams were organized at the meeting for a basketball game with the Baptist troop. Also a new patrol was organized under the name of the fox patrol, consisting of the following members: Robert Lewig, patrol leader, Marvin Simpson, Hilfred Hoffman, Scribe Richard Kurriger, Q.M. Harold Hinescoter. The ball game? We were defeated, lacking height although we had plenty of scrap. Considerable sportsman ship was evidenced by both sides, which is the main thing after all.
A “snow” hike was held on January 31, with eleven boys and the scoutmaster hiking across the bridge and up the river almost to the dam. Fox and Goose was played, a big snowball fight held, supper cooked (after considerable difficulty due to the wetness of everything combustible), and finally all returned home, cold but pleased.
In observance of national scout week the scouts attended Mass in a body being accompanied by Mr. A.C. Begey and Mr. J.A. Bernick, committeemen.
On February 11, our troop, accompanied by parents went to the high school cafeteria for an anniversary program. We were best presented both in number of scouts and number of parents attending. A good pot-luck supper was enjoyed, followed by a short but snappy entertainment. Raymond Novak received his tenderfoot badge at this gathering.
The troop was delighted to have as its guest at the meeting of Feb. 23, Lieutenant (J.G.) William Volger, who talked for about twenty minutes on his experiences in the navy. Since the lieutenant had participated in seven major battles, and had numerous photographs to show us of ships being sunk, airplanes shot down, etc. he proved exceptionally interesting. After the talk, he was kept busy answering questions until quite late in the evening—all hating to stop.
On April 13, our troop conducted an investiture of tenderfoot scout s before the Court of Honor held at the high school. On April 18 seventeen scouts, Howard Carl, and Father Morrissey started on a hike to work on mapping, judging, tracking and cooking. Just after reaching the destination, a sudden rainstorm came up and the party was obliged to call upon two of the parents for assistance in being rescued from the farm-house whither it had retreated.
May 11, the scouts and our scout-master marched in a parade in celebration of a promotion day for the Civil Air Patrol. The Governor of Iowa, Mr. Hickenlooper, reviewed the parade from the Legion Hall, where it began.
A crowd of several hundred people interested in Boy Scout activities witnessed the exposition of scouting presented in the Jefferson school gymnasium on June 4 by the Cubs and Scouts of the Muscatine district, Buffalo Bill area, with ten scouts troops participating, including our own troop, of course. Various phases of scouting activities were demonstrated and at the Court of Honor, leadership training awards in health and safety, parts one and two, were made to our scoutmaster, Howard Carl, and the following received the rank of tenderfoot in the troop—Charles Lorber, Jack Jarrard, and Robert Hines.
On June 13, a Sunday, some sixteen boys together with the scoutmaster and Father Morrissey hiked to Geneva School on Highway 61, where the boys worked on judging, tracking, fire-building and cooking.
Following the usual making of plans in the two previous meetings to camp week, some nineteen boys with Father Morrissey and Howard Carl went to Camp Minneyata on June 27. The boys made considerable progress at camp this year, with John Hall advancing to the rank of Star Scout. Marvin Zybarth and Norris Hines attained first class rank. Jack Zetler, Robert Hines, and Hilfred Hoffman completed second class requirements. Attending boys all received the coveted “M” award, so it was the most successful camp period the troop ever had. One of the interesting phases of camp that year was the planting of an acre of potatoes near the camp, and many of the boys received practical training and experience in gardening. Other awards given for camping included an attendance award for eight years to Howard Carl, for six years to Father Morrissey, merit badges to John Hall in swimming, life-saving, pioneering, first aid and bird study.
On August 22, Father Morrissey was feted with a parish farewell at St. Matthias. To show appreciation of the splendid work that he accomplished in scouting during the six years as assistant at the parish, Scoutmaster Howard Carl in behalf of troop 123, presented Father Morrissey with a scout bronze statuette.
The troop had its annual labor day hike, with thirteen boys and the scoutmaster in attendance. It proved to be a very interesting time, involving the cooking of three meals, work on advancement, nature study, etc. The following day fifteen boys, accompanied by twelve guests, went to the scout cabin again and had a great time. They played ball, had a campfire, and awarded a bronze scout statuette to Father Mannhardt in appreciation of his efforts in scout work during his four year assistantship at St. Mary’s Parish.
On September 23, the troop put on a demonstration before the Knights of Columbus on starting fires with flint and steel. Joe Rauch, George Burr, Raymond Novak, and Jack Jarrard showed how to make fire with flint and steel, Paul Kelly made fire by friction, and Marvin Zybarth, Robert Hines and Billy Carl tied bandages on Bob Wirtz in a demonstration of First Aid. Also the scouts put on their “operation” stunt, much to the amusement of the men.
On October 31, a large crowd attended a pageant presented by the Boy Scouts of Muscatine and Wilton at Weed Park, using the baseball diamond as the setting. A camp was set up on the diamond consisting of tents and rendered first aid, returning to camp with their patients. Demonstrations followed consisting of setting fire by friction and by flint and steel under the direction of William Kook of troop 123; pioneer rope lashing under supervision of David Stanley of troop number 127, and compass, mapping and cooking. A formal retreat closed the activities.
On November 17, the scout troop sponsored a very successful bingo party at the Knights of Columbus Hall with some seventy-fix persons in attendance, and the troop realized the sum of sixteen dollars.
Our troop was honored in having its scout-master, Howard Carl, presented with the Silver Beaver award, highest honor in the Boy Scout movement awarded to volunteers, at the annual meeting of the Buffalo Bill area council on November 16. Mr. Carl has served as a leader in Buffalo Bill area scouting work for the past fourteen years, with a record which area officials praised as outstanding. Not only has he served as scoutmaster, but also on numerous area committees. He has attended Camp Minneyata for eight consecutive years, and secured the attendance of a high percentage of his troop each year. He was the only one received this award in the area this year.
On December 12, ten boys and the scoutmaster attended a hike to the pasture back of Geneva school on Highway 61, and considerable work was done on Second class advancement. After this work, there were games, followed by the cooking of supper. Four new scouts assisted in the activity and, despite a strong wind, all had a good time.
The Christmas party was held at the school on December 22, with some interesting gifts being exchanged by those present.
On December 29, the troop was honored by having as its guest a former member, Lieutenant Francis Milder, navigator of the Army Air Corps, who was home after having completed some three hundred hours of combat flying in the South Pacific area. His experiences were very interesting to the boys, reflecting, as they do, the hazards which our men face in war. His success is an indication of the high evaluation we ought to place on the training of character as it is molded in the Boy scout pattern. .
1944 Regular meetings were held during January, with the boys working very hard on advancement. Since signaling seemed to be holding up most of the fellows, much time was spent on this phase of scouting.
The scouts assisted in the collection of money for the Infantile Paralysis fund from the crowd attending the basketball game between Muscatine High and Fort Madison high on Friday, January 21.
On January 23, the boys again assisted in raising money for the Infantine Paralysis Fund by collecting money from the people at the two leading theaters here in Muscatine.
On January 24, our troop performed the installation ceremony for the new troop, number 125, of the Presbyterian church.
Sales on camp stamps for the 1944 camp period were begun on January 26 at the regular meeting period.
At the Board of Review held in the City Hall, the following scouts received first class and second class certificates—Francis Avesing, first class; Raymond Novak, Donald Welzenbach, John Roth, Charles Lorber, Jack Jarrard, second class. This occurred on February 2 of this year.
Again our scouts conducted installation ceremonies for a new troop, this time for troop 91, the Musserville M.E. church troop. The date—February 4.
In observance of National Scout Week, our troop placed in the window of the Sears and Roebuck store a scouting arch featuring an honor roll of former scouts of troop 123 now in the armed services. The display attracted considerable attention, and evidenced the skilled workmanship and labor involved. The following day, Feb. 6, the scouts attended Mass and received Communion in a body at St. Mathias church, with attendance of scouts and scouters being just about perfect. The scout chaplain, Father Dunne, delivered a sermon on scouting.
On February 10, announcement was made that Keith Benner, our good friend and assistant executive of the Buffalo Bill area, had accepted the position of executive for the Cedar Rapids area. He was a fine friend of the troop, and will be missed.
Advancements were conferred on a large number of Boy Scouts and leadership training awards were made when approximately 400 attended a pot-luck supper and program at Jefferson gymnasium on February 11. Our troop was host at the dinner. Our boys were given the privilege of being dispatch bearers, with Francis Avesing, Leo Avesing, William Carl, Norris Hines, Robert Hines, Charles Lorber, Raymond Novak, Joseph Rauch, and Marvin Zybarth receiving special mention.
Regular meetings were held during the next four or five week period, with a high spot being the meeting of March 28, when an exciting scavenger hunt was held. The Cobra patrol proved to be the winners, and all participating members had a good though slightly damp time. Spring, you know! Each winner, by the way, received the traditional scout ring.
On April 1, eighteen members and the scoutmaster went on a hike to Ed. Wulf’s farm. Emphasis was on hiking, tracking, cooking, fire-building and judging and despite the adverse conditions of a high wind and a drizzling rain, the boys did very well on each.
There was a meeting of mothers and boys on April 10, at which preliminary plans were made for the tenth anniversary dinner and program.
On April 17, there was a Board of Review held at the City Hall, Boys passing awards were Paul Kelly, Joe Rauch, Billy Carl, and Jack Zetler for first class; Gene Mueller, Robert Newton, Robert Wirtz, Leo Avesing for second class; Francis Avesing received weather, personal health, and firemanship merit badges; Joe Rauch received the firemanship merit badge.
Further plans were made on April 18 for the tenth anniversary and for re-registrations, with a number of the mothers in attendance. .
Appendix I.
Roster of all scouts during the ten year period 1934 to 1944Francis Milder, Francis Angell, Robert Jehring, Robert Witte, John Baker, Gerald Blaesing, Thomas Lange, Philip Steinbaugh, Lambert Cross, Paul Roth, Robert Fuller, Robert Klein, James Malloy, John Garrett, Cyril Cottrell, Donald Ping, James Huff, francis McGowan, Henry Madden, Lawrence Dwyer, Elmer Mapes, Bern. Montgomery, Francis Peyerl, Raymond Simpson, John Grosjean, Paul Schumacher, Darrell Beckery, Bernard Steinke, Junior Richardson, Robert Carl, Robert Tadewald, Edward Chaudoin, Richard Albert, James Chasteen, Anthony Bisesi, Robert Alhf, P.J. Bisesi, Robert Pallischeck, Paul Vallett, William Brown, Harold Kurriger, Patrick Hopewell, Arthur Steinbaugh, Francis Olish, Harry Schnedler, Laverne Salek, Patrick Minear, Cletus Kurriger, John Cottrell, Frank Albert, Patrick Barry, Arthur Hahnbaum, Richard Oberhaus, Robert Steinke, George Motier, R. Koenigsaecker, William Archer, Louis Nester, Leonard Aull, George Lindle, Robert Milder, John Klaffenbach, Gene Fuller, Robert Hillmer, Richard Fuller, Robert Doty, Vincent Gaeta, H. Koenigsaecker, Harold Price, Dennis O’Leary, John Hall, Roger Lindle, John Strain, John Schroeder, John Mendenhall, Harley Mills, Walter Hinkley, Paul Kelly, Norris Hines, Francis Avesing, Marvin Zybarth, John Alexander, Daryl Kempf, Edward Weikert, Chas. Yerington, Harold Wingerter, Richard Kuebler, George Burr, Jack Zetler, Billy Carl, Robert Hines, Robert Wirtz, Robert Lewig, Marvin Simpson, Richard Kurriger, Hilred Hoffman, Joseph Rauch, Raymond Novak, Robert West, Jack Jarrard, Charles Lorber, Donald Welzenbach, John Roth, Donald Marine.
Appendix II. Troop Committee Members- H.J. Koenigsaecker, William Kook, Ray L. Brown, Rev. Vincent Walsh, Rev. Leo Kuebrich, C.C. Cottrell, A.C. Begey, Leonard M. Fuller, L.W. Flannery, Rev. C.D. Mannhardt, Joseph A. Bernick, Rev. J.J.Morrissey, Rev. R.J. Pacha. A. Assistant scout-master-Francis Pallischeck, John Baker, Cyril Baker, James Huff, Robert Carl, James Malloy, Donald Ping Scoutmaster-Howard Carl
Appendix III
Honor Roll of scouts in service:Lawrence Flannery, James Malloy, Robert Carl, Francis Milder, Francis Angell, John Baker, Gerald Blaesing, Thomas Lange, Philip Steinbaugh, Lambert Cross, Paul Roth, Robert Fuller, John Garrett, Cyril Cottrell, Donald Ping, James Huff, Francis McGowan, Henry Madden, Lawrence Dwyer, Elmer Mapes, Bern. Montgomery, Francis Peyerl, Raymond Simpson, John Grosjean, Paul Schmacher, Darrell Beckery, Bernard Steinke, Junior Richardson, Robert Tadewald, Richard Albert, James Chasteen, Anthony Bisesi, P.J. Bisesi, Robert Ahlf, Robert Pallischeck, Francis Pallischeck, William Brown, Patrick Hopewell, Arthur Steinbaugh, Francis Olish, Harry Schnedler, Laverne Salek, Patrick Minear, John Cottrell, Frank Arthur, Patrick Barry, Arthur Hahnbaum, Richard Oberhaus, Donald Steinke, Robert Hillmer, Robert Doty, Harold Price, George Lindle, Dennis O’Leary, Russell Wenzlick, Vincent Gaeta, William Archer, Rev. V.W. Walsh.
Appendix IV
Roster of present-day members of the troop (1944)Marvin Zybarth, S.P.L., Joseph Rauch, P.L., Jack Zetler, A.P.L., Robert Wirtz, Francis Avesing, Leo Avesing, Norris Hines, P.L., Robert Hines, Raymond Novak, George Burr, John Jarrard A.P.L., Hildred Hoffman, Charles Lorber, Paul Kelly P.L., William Carl P.L., William Dugan, Don Marine, Gene Mueller, John Roth, Robert Newton, Don. Welzenbach, Richard Janney.
Appendix V
Ad Altare Dei Award Winners (May 7, 1944)Marvin Zybarth, William Carl, Norris Hines, Jack Zetler, Paul Kelly, Francis Avesing, Joseph Rauch