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Rare Complete 1916 Boy Scouts of America Multi-Panel Riveted Membership Booklet
Up for sale is an incredibly unique piece of early American Scouting history: a complete, authentic 1916 Series Boy Scouts of America (BSA) multi-panel pocket membership booklet.
Unlike many individual cards from this era that have been separated over the decades, this booklet is completely intact, securely held together by its original metal corner rivet.
THE HIGHLIGHT: Authentic "Campfire" ProvenanceThe standout feature of this specific piece is an authentic, period-accurate burn mark on the Scout Law panel. Rather than generic damage, this genuine burn adds incredible historic character—strongly hinting at a young Scout sitting a bit too close to a campfire over a century ago. It tells a real story that you just can't replicate.
Booklet Features & Historic Content:
- The Boy Scout Plan Panel: Features the American flag and early messaging promoting universal peace and non-military training.
- Morse Code Panel: Displays a complete, legible International Morse Alphabet, numeral, and punctuation chart.
- Illustrated Cover Panel: Iconic early artwork of two Scouts in traditional uniform with the mottos "Be Prepared" and "Do A Good Turn Daily."
- Handwritten Advancement History: Tracks the original Scout's progress from Tenderfoot (January 22, 1916) to First Class Scout (March 13, 1916), proudly signed by Scoutmaster John F. Murray.
Condition Report:
This item is over 110 years old and shows a beautifully aged patina. Expect typical edge wear, light corner creasing, and minor surface wear consistent with a piece carried daily in a uniform pocket. The original metal rivet is strong, and all text and handwriting remain perfectly legible. Please review the high-resolution photos carefully to evaluate the condition and the unique campfire burn mark.
Ships promptly and securely inside a rigid top-loader and reinforced cardboard mailer to ensure it arrives in the exact condition shown.
Perfect for serious BSA collectors, history enthusiasts, or ephemera archivers!
