The Girl Scouts–Arizona Cactus-Pine Council History Committee is made up of volunteers who are passionate about Girl Scouting and its history. We conduct ongoing research, preserve archives and run the Barbara Anderson Girl Scout Museum. New History Committee members are always welcome.
Girl Scouting's Roots in Arizona
From Savannah to the Southwest
In 1912, Juliette Low said, "I've got something for the girls of Savannah, and all of America and the entire world." It didn't take long for Girl Scouting to travel from Savannah to the southwest.
In 1916, Maxie Dunning unofficially began activities with a group of girls from the Girls Friendly Society using the Girl Scout Handbook. There were a few lone troops scattered across the state, and the first registered troop for Arizona was in Ajo, Arizona, in 1918.
The first troop in this area began in 1921 in Glendale and disbanded in 1922. A second troop, sponsored by Trinity Cathedral, began in 1922. This troop, led by Alice Marshall, became Troop #1 of Phoenix.
History is an ongoing process. If you have any information that would add to our knowledge, especially about Girl Scouts in Arizona, please contact us.
We have the following items in our archive available to borrow:
Historical Uniform Collection – Authentic vintage uniforms from all eras of Girl Scouting in the USA may be borrowed for events such as teas, fashion shows, flag ceremonies, and parades (newer vintage uniforms only for parades).
The Golden Eaglet VHS – A 20-minute silent movie featuring Girl Scouts in 1918. Contact the Member Resource Center or the Council Shop to reserve The Golden Eaglet. This is also available online.
Research Materials – Various research materials are available, including handbooks, program resources, songbooks, newsletters, photos, and newspaper articles.
Donations of Historical Girl Scout Uniforms, Handbooks, and Memorabilia
Donations of Girl Scout items are welcome. Please do not dispose of your Girl Scout memorabilia, uniforms, or handbooks without consulting your Girl Scout History Committee.
History Committee Blogs 
Barbara Anderson Girl Scout Museum
Have you visited the Barbara Anderson Girl Scout Museum? The Barbara Anderson Girl Scout Museum is a member of Central Arizona Museum Association, The Arizona Memory Project, and Arizona Women's Heritage Trail.
Would You Like a Tour?
A tour takes approximately one hour. A volunteer docent will work with you to plan a program for your visit.
SCHEDULE A TOUR
