History of 1st Norton-on-Tees Scout Group (1907-1949)
1907-1921: The Early Years
Limited records exist for the group's history during this period. In 1910, two record books documented members' names and activities. Mr. Edward Reed, the first Scoutmaster, was a beloved figure in the village, known for his passion for nature and butterfly collecting. Scouting involved outdoor activities like stalking, tracking, camping, and games on the Yorkshire Moors.
Humble Beginnings and Challenges:
Initially meeting in Mr. Reed's garden shed, the group later used a glue factory near the school. The first headquarters, a fragile hut near Darlington Lane, was eventually replaced by a sturdier one built by the scouts. The hut served as a meeting place and even included a Scouter/Rover den.
World War II Challenges and Relocation:
During the war, the group faced challenges, relocating to different places and dealing with vandalism. They sold their hut to a market gardener. Despite setbacks, the scouts continued their activities in various locations.
Acquiring Norton Mill Site:
Post-war, the group aimed to secure a permanent site. Norton Mill, owned by Mr. Skelton, became their focus. The mill site was purchased for £100, including one year to pay. The dilapidated state of the mill required significant clearing before construction could begin.
Building The Mill HQ:
The group faced material shortages and used salvaged bricks to build their headquarters. The construction, carried out mostly by scouts, involved clearing rubble, chipping bricks, and facing numerous challenges. Lack of fresh water led to creative solutions like fetching water from Billingham Beck.
Thriving Activities and Expansion:
The completed Mill HQ became a hub for scouting activities, leading to significant growth in numbers. Extensions were built by scouts, adding rooms to accommodate the increasing membership. Despite facing vandalism, the group persevered, reinforcing windows with steel shutters and barbed wire.
Amalgamation with 2nd Norton:
Both 1st and 2nd Norton Scout Groups faced challenges with leader shortages. In 1949, the decision was made to amalgamate. Despite some difficulties and the loss of good people, the amalgamation helped sustain scouting in Norton. The combined group retained members from both 1st and 2nd Norton, ensuring the continued existence and growth of scouting in the community.
Legacy of Resilience:
The history of 1st Norton-on-Tees Scout Group reflects a legacy of resilience, determination, and community spirit. From the early days of outdoor adventures to overcoming challenges in acquiring a permanent headquarters, the scouts, leaders, and community members worked together to build a lasting foundation for scouting in Norton-on-Tees.