Boy Scout Troop 358

Troop History

Our troop began its Scouting heritage as Troop 258 with the issuance of the first charter on December 31, 1953. Troop 258 was part of the Potawatomi District, Pokagon Trails Council, Boy Scouts of America. Sometime before 1960 the troop number was changed from 258 to 358. Pokagon Trails Council merged with other councils to become the Calumet Council in 1966, and the Potawatomi District was renamed the Lone Pine District. The Potawatomi name was restored in 2002.

A committee of eight men and two additional leaders assisted the first Scoutmaster, Mr. Tom Conroy. The troop has always been sponsored by the St. Christopher Holy Name Society. In it’s 57 years, Troop 358 has had thirteen Scoutmasters. In addition to Mr. Conroy, past Scoutmasters have included James Stadler, Bart Gruzalski, John Smart, Roman Potempa Sr., Frank Hill, Larry Woestman, James Nelson, William Kelley, Dave Burke, Joeseph Zielinski, Dave Blankenship, and Bill Busking. These men, and their committees, have provided excellent guidance and leadership. They’ve taken the troop on outdoor activities, provided opportunities for travel, fostered mental, physical, and religious growth; guiding the boys of today into the future of tomorrow.

With an average annual registration of about 40 boys, the troop has provided Scouting experiences for over 1,000 boys through the years. Records show a one time registration of 93 Scouts in one year. Today’s membership includes Scouts still active in Scouting, and families with second and even third-generation Scouts.

In it’s 57 year history, Troop 358 is proud to have 62 Scouts achieve the coveted rank of Eagle Scout. The Order of the Arrow is strongly represented in the troop, with several Scouts and Scouters selected as Vigil Honor members. Troop members have also served on staff at Scout camps and National training centers, while others have journeyed to National Jamborees, Region Seven Canoe Base, Philmont, and other high adventure bases.

Scouters and leaders of Troop 358 have been honored for their work and contributions in Scouting. These honors and awards include the Scouter’s Key, Silver Beaver, Bronze Pelican, St. George Award, Wood Badge, and numerous district and council recognitions.

With a rich Scouting heritage, Troop 358 begins 2011 with 32 Scouts under the leadership of Scoutmaster Jamie Potempa and an active committee. The requirements, procedures, and activities of the Scouting movement will change from time to time, but the same Scouting spirit that guided Troop 258 in 1953 will continue to guide us into 2011 and beyond.

Our meetings are held every Thursday night at the Saint Christopher School Gymnasium in Midlothian, Illinois and run from 7:00-9:00 p.m. If you are interested in joining our troop we would encourage you to visit one of our meetings and check us out.

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