, Girl Scout History Project

As Washington’s cherry blossoms fade and scatter in the wind, it is time to wrap up our time-traveling trip to Okinawa in the 1950s.

(Need a refresh? Return to Part 1 or Part 2 of this series.)

Sharing Traditions

The Japanese Girl Scouts in Okinawa shared many of their traditions with their American friends, such as the song “Sakura” and the Festival of the Dolls. Did you know “Rock, Paper, Scissors” is related to a Japanese game called Jan Ken Pon?

, Girl Scout History Project

, Girl Scout History Project
Traditional Japanese “nodder” dolls (right) dressed in Girl Scout uniforms.

Furoshiki

, Girl Scout History Project

The Americans were introduced to furoshiki—traditional, colorful fabric used to wrap packages and to gather small items. They are the original reusable totes, popular long before plastic bags. The Girl Scouts of Okinawa sold furoshiki as a fundraiser in the 1960s. Several are draped throughout the council exhibit.

, Girl Scout History Project

Let’s Put on a Show!

All of the Girl Scouts of Okinawa came together for an International Folk Festival on March 2, 1957. Each troop performed a traditional dance from around the world.

The festival was well-reported by island newspapers.

, Girl Scout History Project

What a delightful trip this has been!

, Girl Scout History Project
Girls hang a sign at Weston Lodge

2 responses to “Girl Scouts and Japan, part 3”

  1. Linda Coonradt Avatar
    Linda Coonradt

    Hello, my name is Linda Coonradt. I was reading some of the events and comments about the girl scouts in Okinawa. I wanted you to know that my mother, Mrs Harold,Doris, Coonradt, helped get the building of the Machinato Girll Scout House built and dedicated in 1958. Even have a photo or two of Day camp trainers course given to the mothers of the girl scouts of Okinawa Dated June 4th 1957. Can reach me if interested at , lcfaumsu@aol.com

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