GUNN, Walter H.

GUNN, Walter H. ( -- ). Walter H. Gunn arrived in Dubuque to begin full-time work as professional Scout Executive in June, 1917. Gunn was a 1915 graduate from the Y.M.C.A. College in Chicago, with a Bachelor of Physical Education degree. Upon graduation, he accepted a position as Physical Director of the East Aurora Public Schools. He served as a Scoutmaster of a troop until moving to Dubuque.

Upon his arrival in Dubuque, Gunn immediately began the task of generating interest and doing what he could to organize Scout troops. Among the challenges he faced was not only to recruit boys, but also to convince parents that this was not “a movement that served as a training ground for the military.” Gunn also had to recruit men to serve as leaders, and few training materials existed to train the volunteer Scout leaders. By the end of 1919, there would be 356 Boy Scouts that registered with the council.

Judge D. E. Maguire presided over the merit badge examinations and the award ceremony at the April 22, 1920 Court of Honor. As usual, the ceremony was held at the Court House. The highlight of this event was the presentation of the first Eagle Scout badge earned in the Dubuque Council. Judge D. E. Maguire awarded the badge to Scout Executive Walter Gunn. In a few months, Lynn Osborn and Arthur Francis would earn their Eagle Scout rank on the same day—just hours before leaving for London to represent the Dubuque Council the first World Jamboree.

Gunn camped with the Scouts each summer at Camp Quaker Mills and at Camp Wyalusing. He camped with the Scouts at the Scout cabin near Durango each winter. He frequently went on canoe trips. When a troop was without a Scoutmaster, he filled in.

Walter Gunn resigned as Scout Executive of the Dubuque council in 1921 to accept a position as Field Scout Executive with the North Shore District of the Chicago Council.

Earle B. Moore replaced Gunn as the Dubuque Scout Executive, April 1, 1921.

(Information provided by Paul Lewis.)