Boy Scouts of America Troop 160 recently celebrated its 90th anniversary at a banquet at Cannstatter’s. The troop has been chartered by Immanuel Lutheran Church, at 1015 Cottman Ave. in Burholme, since 1924.
Troop 160 provides boys ages 11–18 with a program that meets the aims of Scouting — character development, citizenship training and personal fitness. The troop stresses the Scouting advancement program, with the goal that each Scout is given the opportunity to become an Eagle Scout. To date, Troop 160 has produced 85 Eagle Scouts, the highest rank in Boy Scouting. An extensive volunteer adult leadership core acts as guides for Troop 160 Scouts.
Troop 160 also has the distinction of having its own drum and bugle corps, one of only two in the city. It is known throughout the Cradle of Liberty Council for its presentations on Memorial Day, Summer Camp Call-to-Colors and at other special council functions.
Camping and the outdoor experience are the heart and soul of Troop 160’s program. The troop participates in a camping activity every month, except the month of November, which is booked for community service centered on the Scouting for Food program. This initiative helps provide canned goods and other necessities to neighborhoods in Philadelphia and the citywide food bank. Camp-outs are at a different location each month. Major activities include a traditional ski weekend, Klondike Derby, father/son weekend, the annual camporee and a week of summer camp at one of the council camps.
Every other year, Troop 160 has taken a crew on a high-adventure trek to either Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico or Sea Base in the Florida Keys.
For more information, visit www.troop160.org ••
