Several members of Frederick Troop 220 joined Scouts from across Oklahoma Monday as they celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America at the State Capitol. The event was one of the opening activities of National Scout Week, which is traditionally observed the first full week in February each year.

 The first Boy Scout troop in the United States was founded in Oklahoma when a British missionary organized a group in Pawhuska in 1909.  The troop became part of the Boy Scouts of America when the youth organization was incorporated a year later. 

 Monday’s events included Gov. Brad Henry’s proclamation of the Scouting centennial and the recognition of several State Representatives who are Eagle Scouts.  District 63 State Rep. Don Armes recognized the Frederick Troop from the floor of the House as the session began.  After the ceremony, the Scouts had the opportunity to watch House members debate and vote on legislation that had been introduced.

 During the morning, local Scouts met with Armes, Lt. Gov. Jari Askins and District 26 State Sen. Tom Ivester.  Ivester took the boys down on the Senate floor before the session began and explained the legislative process.  He also allowed the Scouts to preview a portrait of the noted Chickasaw native storyteller Te Ata, which was formally unveiled that afternoon in the Senate Chamber by the Oklahoma State Senate Historical Preservation Fund.

 The Scouts toured the capitol, including the Supreme Court Chambers, the Hall of Governors and the Oklahoma State Art Collection.

 After departing the State Capitol, the Scouts braved the snow to visit the Oklahoma Veteran’s Memorial, and traveled downtown for a brief stop at the Oklahoma Bombing Memorial at the former site of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building.