Site icon Girl Scout History Project

New Exhibit: 50 Years, 4 Levels, 1 Program

Ann Robertson
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In September 1963, Girl Scouts changed from a three-level program to a four-level structure. The Intermediate program was divided into Juniors (grades 4–6) and Cadettes (grades 7–9). The restructuring was accompanied by the release of new handbooks for each level, as well as new badges, uniforms, and awards.

The Nation’s Capital Archives and History Committee has created a new exhibit to mark the 50th anniversary of that exciting program. Items are on display in the lobby of the Council headquarters at 4301 Connecticut Ave. NW.  How many items do you recognize?

The October 1963 issue of Leader magazine kicked off the new program.
The new handbooks went on sale on September 9, 1963, and books purchased that first week came with a special commemorative bookplate.
New badges were introduced for the Juniors and Cadettes.
Committee members Virginia Walton (left) and Bonnie Johnson check to make sure the badge sash is correct.
The first Cadette uniform was a variation on the alternate Intermediate uniform.
The new yellow-bordered Cadette badges were sewn on sashes beneath the Junior/Intermediate badges.
New insignia included the Sign of the Arrow and Sign of the Star for Juniors and new interest patches for Seniors.
Cadettes had their very own logo!

The handbooks, badges, and awards combined to create a framework of progression. One program, built on one foundation, would be adapted to four ages levels.

That foundation contained six basic elements, which are still followed 50 years later:

Text and Photos © 2013 Ann Robertson

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