History

Troop 525 was chartered with eight boys in August 1984. The troop was formed by Scoutmaster Randy Lewis. Randy was a member of Simpsonwood United Methodist Church and had been interested in forming a Scout troop since joining SUMC shortly after its formation. Randy attempted to charter the troop for several months and finally succeeded in gaining interest from sufficient scouts and leaders during the Summer of 1984. All the adult leaders were members of SUMC and wanted to establish this outreach ministry.

In April 1985, the first class of Webelos Scouts from Cub Scout Pack 525 crossed over to the troop. The class had 24 scouts, bringing the troop’s numbers to the low 30’s in its first year. The troop was very successful from it’s early years, with an active outdoor program including two weeklong summer camps each summer. This active program helped 6 boys achieve the rank of Eagle during the troop’s first 6 years.

Micah Andrews crossed over from Pack 525 in the large group who joined the troop in April 1985. His father, Gerry, became the second Scoutmaster in 1989. A year later, Gerry moved to the Northeast District volunteer staff and Ken Craft assumed the role of Scoutmaster in 1992. Ken was known for sharing is collection of Boy Scout memorabilia during Troop activities and Scout Shows. In 1992-94, Jim Borders (Troop’s 1st Eagle and SPL) served as an interim Scoutmaster between college graduation and his reporting to the Air Force. At his departure, Randy Lewis agreed to assume the role of Scoutmaster again on an interim basis. These early adult leaders established the traditions that have made the troop what it is today after 16 years. Joe Gibbs (1994-96), followed by Bruce Reber took the lead role as they crossed over with their sons into the troop. Bruce and his family moved in the summer of 1997 soon after Rick Mahan joined the troop with his son, Kevin. Rick eagerly agreed to accept the position of Scoutmaster (he said at that time he would like to serve for 3 years) and served admirably in that capacity until his untimely death in August 2000. The members of Troop 525 were honored to play a role in Rick’s memorial service. John Cherry was already in transition into the role of SM when Rick died and is our current Scoutmaster.

Today's Troop

The troop has always been blessed with an abundance of adult leaders who are willing to step forward when they were called, or in many cases, volunteer before they are asked.

Although we have very dedicated adult leaders, Troop 525 is boy-led. Every boy is required to hold leadership positions as he advances in rank. He is encouraged to step up and hold positions of increasing responsibility as he progresses on his trail to Eagle. The leadership team meets monthly to set the program and plan the meetings and outings (Green Bar).

The program is outdoor based with an emphasis on having fun, learning Scout skills, and advancement. The program is anchored by two weeklong summer camps each summer, monthly outings, Sea Base and Philmont trips, as well as other activities planned by the boy leaders and Troop Committee. This mix of adult and boy leaders manifests itself in the large percentage of scouts who have attained the rank of Eagle in Troop 525.

The troop meets each Monday night beginning at 7:30 PM at Simpsonwood United Methodist Church. Visitors are always welcome.

WEBELOS who are interested in joining our troop should visit our Webelos information page.

For current facts and statistics about our troop, see our Troop Facts page.