On the morning of September 19, 1919, Lord Robert Baden-Powell blew a Kudu horn at Gilwell Park on the edge of Epping Forest near London. Thus began the world's first Wood Badge course. Since that day, wherever Wood Badge is held, it is on Gilwell Field. Wood Badge is today offered around the world. Over 100,000 people have attended Wood Badge.

The objective of Wood Badge is to demonstrate the aims of methods of Scouting. Upon completion, a Scouter receives a certificate and two beads, and becomes a permanent member of Troop 1, Gilwell. The two wooden beads replicate the beads found by Baden-Powell during a campaign in Africa in 1888. These belonged to the African Chieftain Dinizulu. In searching for a suitable recognition for the men who completed his first course, Baden-Powell remembered the beads and decided to present a bead to each participant. From then on, the course was called "Wood Badge."

Wood Badge Course 6-15-1999

Rosemarie C. - Owl

Wood Badge Course C-7-04

William C. - Bear

Wood Badge Course C4-441-11-1

Michael K. - Foxey Five