Girl scout mess kit | c. 1960

2011:32: 2

Donor: Dale Ann Worthington Lincoln

This Girl Scout mess kit belonged to Dale Ann Worthington of Natick when she was a Girl Scout in 1970-71.

On March 12, 1912, Juliette Gordon Low organized the first Girl Guides of America meeting in Savannah, GA. At a time when a woman’s place was supposed to be at home, and they still couldn’t vote, Low inspired girls to embrace their strength and intellect. From its beginnings, the national organization emphasized self-sufficiency and outdoor activities for girls--including playing basketball, hiking, and camping. Today, the Girl Scouts of the USA has over 2.5 million members worldwide.

Natick’s first Girl Scout troop was formed in 1919. Today, the Natick Girl Scouts has more than 500 girls who participate in typical troop activities, community service projects, annual cookie sales, local parades, and encampments that are organized by the local service unit.