Welcome to Hidden Memorials: a series that gives a brief introduction to the city's lesser known monuments, memorials and statues. Today, let's look at the Boy Scout Memorial.
Like many of the hidden memorials in the city, the Boy Scout Memorial was built as a result of an anniversary. This commemorative statue was proposed in 1959 in advance of the 50th anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America. Perhaps the most interesting thing about this memorial is that the Boy Scouts raised the money themselves. Although the government approved the statue, they didn't actually spend any funds on this bronze statue on the Ellipse. The bronze sculpture by Donald De Lue was dedicated five years later, in 1964. The man and woman flanking the scout are meant to represent the ideals (loyalty, courage, justice and freedom among others) which guide the young men as they become adults. In 2009, the memorial underwent a massive restoration in advance of the 100th anniversary of the Boy Scouts. Perhaps the most noticeable fix was that of the pumps and piping in the pool in front of the sculpture.
· Boy Scout Memorial [Wikipedia]
· Boy Scout Commemorative Tribute Memorial [National Park Service]
· All Hidden Memorials [CDC]
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