Handbooks
Boy Scout "Fieldbooks"
FIRST
EDITION – 1944-1967 – “Scout Field Book” Retired Chief Scout Executive Dr.
James E. West and William Hillcourt were the authors of this edition. The
cover artwork was done by Don Ross, artist for the Scout Handbook. The book
has more than one thousand photographs and drawings. Nearly every idea in
the text is illustrated. Chapters include instruction on hiking, camp
crafts, wild life, helping others, you and our
SECOND
EDITION – 1967-1984 – “Fieldbook For Boys And Men” Almost a million copies
of the first edition were used by Scouts and Scouters. The second edition
captured the spirit and flavor of the first and had the latest information
on outdoor living. It was carefully planned, written and edited by field and
stream experts of the Boy Scouts of America, and it was illustrated with
over 1,700 photographs and drawings. There were two different covers for
this edition.
THIRD
EDITION – 1984-2004 – “Fieldbook” This edition begins to show the changing
attitudes toward the impact that we have on the land. Innovations in
backpacking equipment have helped to change our camping habits. The
information provided through texts and colored photographs helps youth and
adults alike to prepare for high adventure and to understand our
relationship to all of nature.
FOURTH
EDITION – 2004-present – “Fieldbook” Following the changes that began in the
third edition, the Boy Scouts of America continues to stress the importance
of our impact on the earth. Chapters in this present edition include:
Leadership and Trek Preparation; Leaving No Trace; Trek Adventures;
Appreciating Our Environment. This book can be a valuable guide to everyone
who enjoys the great outdoors.