Section Two

The ideas of the movement also caught on among girls, and they very much wanted to be part of it. However, as children's activities were usually gender exclusive at the time, the idea of girls joining Boy Scouts just wasn't acceptable. Girls had to form their own group, which became known as Girl Guides.

Here's an account of how one Girl Guide troop started:

"In the early spring of 1910 a company of Scouts was formed at St. James Church in Vancouver. Phyl Munday could not see why boys alone should be able to enjoy such a movement, so she asked the Scoutmaster if they could have a troop of Girl Scouts. Evidently this was not acceptable, so Phyl bullied her mother into becoming their Scout Mistress."

Not Just Pin Money, p. 221.

Tofino Girl Guides,
ca. 191-
A-05766
Like Boy Scouts, Girl Guides quickly became popular even in small towns. Although Guides shared similar aims as Scouts, many Guide activities often focused on feminine occupations. While Scouts might earn badges for boating, camping, fitness, and first aid, Guides could work towards badges in cooking, needlework, laundry and child care.

The objectives of Boy Scouts and Girl Guides are diverse. According to the Canadian Scout Handbook, Boy Scouts and Girl Guides is a "club, gang, society and a movement" all rolled into one. They define their purpose as follows:

- To help people in the community
- To gain friends
- To see interesting places
- To visit nearby places of interest
- To go hiking and camping
- Fun and games

Sooke Cubs at a birthday party, 1968
E-03873
Scout and Guide activities are very varied. Since one of the basic purposes is to learn good social skills and gain friends, activities can be as simple as celebrating a birthday or a civic holiday.

Another common activity is to raise money for specific events or projects in the community, or for the country.

Below is an envelope that was used as part of a fund raising drive during the Queen's Coronation year, 1952.

AAAA0294, MS-2766, BC Archives, Envelope to raise money in Coronation year, 1952

For both Scouts and Guides outdoor activities are extremely important. Hiking, boating, camping and conservation are all prominent components of the program. The Scout motto "Be Prepared" reflects both their outdoor and community focus. Scouts are trained to be prepared in everything they do: prepared to look after themselves, others and the community at large through the variety of skills they have gained.






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