Atlanta Daily World

By A. J. LEWIS, Jr.

After supper, on Thursday evening, the Boy Scouts of Troops Nos. 79, 89, 90, 91, 92, 94 and 95 from Atlanta and Nos. 40 and 42 from Macon Georgia, met around the first Council Fire at Camp John Hope to pay homage to the late John Hope and others who have made Scouting possible in Georgia. and to those who have worked to create one of the finest camps for Negroes in America.

The Council Ring, a beautiful sight located on the west end of the front campus, off to the side, in an amphitheatre-like bowl, was lighted by a pyramid-shaped wood pile. While the flames flew heavenward. A. J. Lewis, Jr. Scout Commissioner, gave the reason for the occasion and the significance of the ceremony.

Mr. S. L. Davis, Scout Camp Director and Scout Master of Troop No. 89, Atlanta, gave the significance of fire in the life of man, past and present.

The first Negro Scout Master in Georgia, Professor B. T Harvey, described the beginnings of scouting in Georgia for Negro boys.

Mr. Ralph W. Bullock, Director Of the National Youth Administration for Negroes in Georgia, Secretary of the National Council of the YMCA. and a member of the Executive Committee for Recreation and Camping for Negro Youth, addressed the Scouts at which time he emphasized the need and importance of the recreational and camping life for Negroes. He told how necessary it is that the great work started by pioneers in this field be continued. and how important it is that the sanctity and nobility of purpose which these men had should be preserved.

Scout Master C. M. Ashmore of Troop No. 94, Atlanta, a silent, but powerful member of the staff, was in charge of the "eats." "Hot dogs" and rolls were roasted over the fire by all.

Each Troop contributed to the occasion with songs, yells and very humorous and dramatic skits.

The Camp site is located on 222 acres of land in Macon County, about the center of the State, easily accessible to all sections. About one-half of this tract of land is covered with beautiful forest and woods, tall pines, heavy shaded oaks, dogwoods, maple and gum trees. Approximately 100 acres of the tract is open level land, furnishing adequate and admirable space for all forms of athletic activities.

The camp equipment and facilities offer adequate space and opportunity for recreational and educational activities for individual youths as well as for organizations and agencies desiring to make use of the Camp.