If you’ve ever visited the Chicago Gathering Place, you’ll remember the cases that line the hallways, filled with guide books, uniforms, badges, and pins from the past 109 years of Girl Scouting. These artifacts remind our members, visitors, and staff that our history is as important as our future—and who better understands that than our … Continue reading Meet the GSGCNWI Council Historians
Who are the Historians you might ask? The Historian Team at GSGCNWI is made up of 26 volunteers who are interested in the history of Girl Scouts and actively work to preserve and present the story to our community. History of the movement Begun by Juliette Gordon Low on March 12,1912, Girl Scouts quickly spread … Continue reading An Inside Look at How Council Historians Preserve Our Girl Scout Treasures
As we enter into year 110 of instilling courage, confidence and character in girls, we are always honored to learn how Girl Scouts has made an impact on families and communities throughout the years. Thanks to our council Historians, we are able to share stories of heroism, empowerment, and recollections of heartwarming tales throughout different … Continue reading Honoring History: Two Families Carry the Girl Scout Torch for Over 50 Years!
Over the years, forty historical councils have merged into what is now Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana. In that time, Girl Scouts have owned or leased at least 91 camps, program centers and Little Houses. Below, historians share memories of some of their visits to a few of these camps and how … Continue reading Council Historians Share Beloved Memories from Their Times at Girl Scout Camp
Last week we met the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana Council Historians, a group of dedicated volunteers who work to collect, preserve, and share the history and legacy of Girl Scouts across the nation and in our area. These historians are essential to keeping the heartbeat of our movement strong, and we … Continue reading Meet the GSGCNWI Council Historians: Part Two!
Bridging is the term that Girl Scouts use to identify the work that a girl or troop does to get ready to move to the next level. This work is not mandatory but is meant to give a girl an idea of what is waiting for her at the next level. Bridging insignia are worn … Continue reading The History of Bridging in Girl Scouts
Girl Scouts have been selling calendars in the fall since the 1940’s. The calendars that were sold had themes for the different years and came in wall size and pocket size. As more people move away from the use of paper calendars and use calendars on their phones or tablets the need for paper calendars … Continue reading Fall Products and Collectible Tins
The Council Historians for the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana are constantly seeking out and preserving the treasures of the Girl Scout movement. However, “treasures” come in many forms, so it’s no wonder that Heidi Gannon, a Council Historian, is also considered to be one of the council’s most cherished treasures. As … Continue reading A Girl Scout Treasure: The Herstory of Heidi Gannon
Thanks to our Girl Scout Historians, we’ve been able to take a look back at some incredible Girl Scout moments of the past in our blog! This month, we’re celebrating the holidays and learning about the Girl Scout Wish Books from the 1920s (and some awesome Girl Scout gifts from today!). Did you know the … Continue reading Remembering Girl Scout Holiday Catalogs
In 1912, Juliette Gordon Low sparked a worldwide movement inspiring girls to embrace their individuality, strength, and intellect. She was the first in a line of supportive adults who dedicated their lives to empowering girls and young women, and we continue to celebrate and honor her legacy on her birthday, October 31. Learn more about … Continue reading Happy Birthday, JGL: Juliette Gordon Low and her Chicago Connection
