Frequently Asked Questions 

Q: How do join?

A: Boys ages 11-17 can join the Troop.  Many of our Scouts come from Pelham Cub Scout Packs 1,4 and 8.

Q: What is the difference between Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts?

A: Boy Scouts take their own lead, exploring places they've never been as they dive into the rugged world of outdoor adventure, with guidance from experienced leaders.  Cub Scouts involves the whole family.

Q: What does Troop 1 do?

A: During the school year, activities consist of weekly Troop meetings, monthly campouts and hikes.  During the summer, there is a week-long Scout camp in the Appalachian mountains plus high adventures, such as white water rafting, scuba diving and high altittude backpacking. 

Q. How many boys are in the Troop?  

A: There are currently 50+ Scouts in Troop 1.

Q: Who is the Scoutmaster?

A: Bill Hopkins is the Scoutmaster.  Jamie Hupprich, Mark Cardwell and George McGuirk are Assistant Scoutmasters. 

Q: What about equipment?  A uniform?

A: The single most important piece of equipment a Boy Scout needs is the Boy Scout Handbook. A local Scout shop is the best place to buy a handbook, and the staff there can guide you to get exactly what you need. There are Scout shops in Manhattan, Hawthorne and Greenwich. 

The uniform is also very important as it plays an essential role in creating a sense of belonging, and it’s where a Scout gets to display his awards and rank achievements. Check out the interactive uniform builder at www.bsauniforms.org . Uniforms can be ordered online or in person at the local Scout shop.  Troop 1 expects Scouts to wear hiking boots, not sneakers, to all Troop meetings and campouts.

Additional supplies and equipment may be needed for certain activities such as camping trips or field days. What equipment is needed, as well as whether it will be provided by the troop, will vary. Troop 1 has tents, sleeping bags and other camping  / cooking equipment. This guide on the "10 essentials"   is a good place for each Scout to start.

Q: How does the Troop operate?

A: Pelham Troop 1 is led by Scouts, with guidance from experienced leaders. We follow the "patrol model." We count on committed parents to support the Scouts in a variety of roles, including serving on the Troop Committee, as drivers and as Assistant Scoutmasters. Check out our Parents Guide for more information.

Q: What else ?

A: Troop 1 is focused on providing a different experience from home and school so we do not allow electronics (e.g. phones, iPods) at troop activities.