Lodge No. 143 Gives Custom-Crafted Totem Pole to Boy Scout Camp

The efforts and financing by Masons of George Washington Lodge No. 143, Chambersburg, and the craftsmanship of a wood-carving Brother from Cumberland Valley Lodge No. 315, Shippensburg, have given Hidden Valley Boy Scout Camp near Landisburg, a new custom-carved, hand-painted, 16-foot totem pole. It replaced a 15 year-old totem pole, which was heavily damaged by ants and woodpeckers.

According to Gary L. Heckman, P.M. and Chairman of the Charity Committee of George Washington Lodge, the Brethren decided to donate the unique totem pole for the 80th Anniversary of the Scout Council. Wood-carver Bro. Jacob G. (Jake) Crider crafted the totem pole. Thus, last Nov. 16, more than 100 Scouts, Masons, and supporters of the Boy Scouts were present at the entrance to the Camp's Ceremonial Area for dedication ceremonies led by Eric Williams, Chief of Susquehannock Lodge 11, Order of the Arrow.

Among those from George Washington Lodge participating in the dedication ceremonies was 86 year-old Bro. Earl O. Blair, a Mason for 52 years, who is a recipient of the Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award.

Among those at the dedication of the totem pole were (l-r): The wood carver, Bro. Crider, Cumberland Valley Lodge No. 315; Joseph Kelso, who is the wood carver's mentor; Eric Williams, Chief of the Order of the Arrow Lodge; Bro. Heckman, P.M., Charity Committee Chairman; Bro. John E. N. Blair, P.M., Acacia Lodge No. 586 and a Dual Member of Lodge No. 143; Bro. Earl O. Bair, a recipient of the Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award; and Bro. Gary L. Heckman, Jr., Assistant Chairman of the Charity Committee; Bro. Gary L. Johnson, Lodge Photographer; and Jess A. Leidig, III, S.M.C., all of George Washington Lodge.