I hadn’t planned to jump on the Jimothy bandwagon.
After all, Jimothy is a male raccoon. While men can become Girl Scouts, they have to be at least 18 years old. Jimothy has a few years to go.
Of course, Girl Scouts have long admired raccoons as part of the whole “Nature–Hurray!” concept. He embodies the principles of courageous, strong, and resilient. He’s also gosh-darn cute.
But then the Washington Post reminded me. We DO have some notable Girl Scout raccoon stories.
Rebecca: The White House Raccoon
First Lady Grace Coolidge had a pet raccoon, Rebecca, while she lived in the White House. Rebecca became a minor celebrity, while the presidential collies, Prim and Rob Roy kept a lower profile.
Mrs. Coolidge was an avid Girl Scout herself, and she often invited local troops to participate in events at the White House, beginning with the annual Easter Egg Roll.
Girl Scouts Meet Rebecca the Raccoon
Local Girl Scouts chosen to work at the White House Easter Egg Roll remember meeting the First Raccoon.
In 1927, Mrs. Coolidge brought out Rebecca for the Girl Scouts to see, and they snapped many photos of the famous pet.
(Library of Congress, National Photo Company)
Local leaders such as Adah Bagby hoped the raccoon would make another appearance in 1928.
Other Ways to Commemorate Jimothy
However, I can’t imagine the current first lady inviting a raccoon to the White House. (Or the Girl Scouts, for that matter.)
Perhaps Jimothy could inspire a redesign of the First Aid to Animal badge? Or a return of the Junior Wildlife badge?
He could model for a number of patches for cookies, camps, or just fun.
Or he use his notoriety to sell Girl Scout cookies.
The possibilities are endless, but time is limited!
© 2026 Ann Robertson, writer, editor, Girl Scout historian, but NOT a Girl Scout employee.
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