# Scout Life Magazine

Part of the Scouting Heritage Merit Badge Digital Resource Guide: [Introduction & Overview](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/scouting-heritage/guide/index.md)

*2. Scouting Milestones*

> **2b4.** Discuss the significance to Scouting of Scout Life magazine (formerly Boys' Life).

## What Is Scout Life Magazine?

*Scout Life* — known as *Boys' Life* from 1911 to 2021 — is the official magazine of Scouting America for youth members. It has been published continuously for over a century, making it one of the longest-running youth publications in the United States.

## Why It Matters

- **A connection between Scouts nationwide.** Before the internet, *Boys' Life* was the primary way Scouts across the country stayed connected to the broader Scouting movement. Every month, the magazine delivered adventure stories, how-to articles, comics, jokes, and news from the world of Scouting directly to Scouts' mailboxes.
- **A publishing milestone.** *Boys' Life* was first published in 1911, just one year after the BSA was founded. The BSA acquired the magazine in 1912. At its peak, it reached millions of subscribers, making it one of the most widely read youth magazines in American history.
- **Content that mirrors the times.** Like the Handbook, the magazine evolved with the decades. Early issues focused on adventure stories, patriotism, and outdoor skills. Later issues incorporated science, technology, environmental awareness, and stories reflecting the growing diversity of Scouting's membership.
- **The name change.** In 2021, the magazine was renamed *Scout Life* to reflect Scouting America's inclusive membership — all youth, not just boys. The name change marked a significant moment in Scouting's evolution while preserving the magazine's mission of entertaining and educating young Scouts.
- **Famous contributors.** Over the years, *Boys' Life* / *Scout Life* has featured work by notable authors, illustrators, and cartoonists. The "Think and Grin" joke page and "Scouts in Action" feature have been reader favorites for decades.

> **Did You Know?**
>
> *Boys' Life* was not originally a BSA publication. It was created by a 19-year-old named Joseph Lane in 1911 as an independent magazine for boys. The BSA purchased it the following year and has published it ever since.

## Discussing Scout Life with Your Counselor

Focus on the magazine's role in the Scouting program:

1. It has served as a nationwide connection between Scouts for over a century
2. Its content has evolved to reflect changes in Scouting and American society
3. The 2021 name change from *Boys' Life* to *Scout Life* reflects Scouting's growth and inclusivity
4. It is one of the longest-running youth publications in the United States

## Official Resources

Video: [Artifact of the Week - Boys' Life to Scout Life (video)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R55NMMY21TM)

Video: [The Story of Boys' Life / Scout Life (video)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIyZwBnlF5c)

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