Reaching the rank of Eagle Scout requires years of dedication and hard work. In addition to 21 required merit badges, each Scout must complete an extensive service project that he plans, organizes, leads, and manages. On average, each Scout conducts 167 service hours as part of that project. In 2008 alone, that translated to $16 million in service to communities across America.
This cache is part of a nationwide geocaching series called “Cache to Eagle” that showcases these special contributions.
The Old Settlers Cemetery is a special place where Washington State pioneer settlers were buried as early as 1855 according to one account. There is very little information available concerning burial records. Its stewards are descendants of the families buried there, church, school and community service groups, individuals who have been taken in by its charm and tranquility, and an unknown core of county employees who mow the lawn periodically. The land was originally donated by Frank Clark in the mid 1800's for free burial of pioneers and their descendants.
This geocache highlights an Eagle Scout project that recently build a 4ft black vinyl-coated chain link fence around the cemetery, greatly improving the appearance and security of this historic site. The fence has two walk-in gates, a service gate, and a drive in gate. The Scout who organized and led this project took care of all of the details, including getting approval from Pierce County, gaining support from a non-profit organization and obtaining a cooperative business to provide supplies at cost. The labor for the fence installation was done by the Scouts and community volunteers.
Over its first 100 years, Scouting has provided missions of hours of service to communities across America. For our 100th Anniversary, we’re celebrating that legacy with special service opportunities through “A Year of Celebration, A Century of Making a Difference.” You can join us, and even earn a commemorative patch! Visit “www.Scouting.org/100years” to learn more.
You can earn the Cache to Eagle patch by finding all 12 Pacific Harbors Council's “Cache to Eagle” geocaches. In each Cache to Eagle cache is a point of the Scout Law. When you find all twelve caches, email the list of cache numbers and points of the Scout Law (e.g. Cache #1, Friendly, Cache #2, Reverent, etc.), to me, PHC Geocaching, and you will receive a Cache to Eagle patch. Don’t forget to send your mailing address. Visit the Pacific Harbors Council website for more details.