Scouting Heritage Merit Badge

Scouting Heritage and the Trail to Eagle

Scouting Heritage is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.

Scouting Heritage Merit Badge Requirements

Summary of the 8 main requirements for Scouting Heritage. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.

1
Discuss with your counselor the life and times of Lord Baden-Powell of Gilwell.
2
Do the following:
1. a.Give a short biographical summary of any TWO of the following: Daniel Carter Beard, William D. Boyce, Waite Phillips, Ernest Thompson Seton, James E. West, 'Green Bar Bill' Hillcourt.
2. b.Discuss the significance to Scouting of any TWO of the following: Brownsea Island, The First World Scout Jamboree, Scouts BSA Handbook, Scout Life magazine.
3
Discuss how Scouting's programs have developed over time and been adapted to fit different age groups and interests.
4
Do ONE of the following: attend a Scouting America National Jamboree, World Scout Jamboree, or national high-adventure base; write or visit the National Scouting Museum; or visit an exhibit of Scouting memorabilia.
5
Learn about the history of your unit or Scouting in your area.
6
Make a collection of your personal patches and other Scouting memorabilia.
7
Reproduce the equipment for an old-time Scouting game. Teach and play the game.
8
Interview at least three people over the age of 40 who were Scouts. Find out about their Scouting experiences.

Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.

How to Earn the Scouting Heritage Merit Badge

1. Get a blue card and a counselor

Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Scouting Heritage, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.

2. Plan around the setting

Scouting Heritage is usually earned troop meetings and outings. Coordinate with your troop so the group activities line up with your requirements.

3. Budget the time

Expect about a month for a easy badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.

4. Track every requirement

Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 10 Scouting Heritage requirements for you.

Scouting Heritage Merit Badge FAQ

Is the Scouting Heritage merit badge required for Eagle Scout?

No. Scouting Heritage is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.

How long does the Scouting Heritage merit badge take?

Most scouts finish Scouting Heritage in about a month, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.

Where do scouts usually earn the Scouting Heritage merit badge?

Scouting Heritage is most often earned troop meetings and outings. Any registered merit badge counselor for Scouting Heritage can sign off requirements.