'Turnback Tuesday' features history of Boy Scout Troop 3 of Derby

Turnback Tuesday looks at the long-standing Boy Scout Troop 3 of Derby, founded in 1914 at the 2nd Congregational Church. 

The church's honorable Rev. Vernon Cooke was the 1st Scoutmaster. The Troop boasts over 300 Eagle Scouts with the first being Manuel Pearson in 1927. 

The boys/young men have participated in numerous fundraising campaigns, community-oriented events, trips and other activities to "be prepared." 

This year marks their 108th Anniversary. After Rev. Cooke, Scoutmasters in the troop’s history include: Rev. Alfred Budd (1917-1935), Edmond Strang (1935-1960), George Tierney Sr. (1960-1975), Larry Potter Jr. (1975-1977), Andy Kopaz (1977-1979), Bruce Sill (1979-1985), Robert Penny (1985-1987), Randy Ritter (1987-2002), James Frovarp (2002-2005), Jason Thompson (2005-2007), Randy Ritter (2007- present). 

This image is from their 85th Anniversary program on March 21, 1999. Thank you to Scoutmaster Randy Ritter for his assistance with the troop’s history.

Thanks goes to Derby Neck Library staff for sharing interesting local history each week.