History of Girl Scouts of the USA

On March 12, 1912, Juliette Gordon Low founded Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) in Savannah, Georgia. Today, GSUSA is the world's pre-eminent organization dedicated solely to girls. In an accepting and nurturing environment, they build character and skills for success in the real world. The qualities girls develop in Girl Scouting (leadership, values, social conscience, and conviction about their own self-worth) serve them all their lives.

Strength in Numbers

Today there are nearly 3.8 million Girl Scouts: 2.9 million girl members and 986,000 adult members.

An International Organization

As a member of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS), GSUSA is part of a worldwide family of 8.5 million girls and adults in 144 countries.

A Part of Women's History

More than 50 million American women enjoyed Girl Scouting during their childhood. Were you one? Raise your hand by signing up here.

History of Girl Scouts of Utah

In 1920 a group of volunteers began the Girl Scout program in Ogden, Utah. Troops in Salt Lake City registered in 1921, and by 1961, a number of regional councils within Utah became incorporated as one statewide council: Girl Scouts of Utah (GSU). Our jurisdiction covers all of Utah, as well as Wendover, Nevada. GSU impacts the lives of over 8,000 girls in grades K through 12, who are supported by 3,500 dedicated adult volunteers. The council is chartered by GSUSA, the largest voluntary organization for girls in the world.

The Girl Scouts of Utah Heritage

GSUSA and GSU are rich in history and tradition. The GSU Heritage Museum collection is comprised of historical items related to the Girl Scout Movement. From uniforms to badges, pictures, and journals, the collection provides a link to the past and showcases the girls and women of courage and vision who paved the way.

GSU is committed to safekeeping the history and heritage of Girl Scouting. Dedicated volunteers make up the Heritage Task Group, a committee that has spent countless hours preserving memorabilia. The goal of the group is to collect, catalog, and preserve items of historical nature related to the Girl Scout Movement, and to promote interest in and provide information about the history of Girl Scouting for members and the community.

If you have Girl Scout memorabilia that you would like to donate, or if you are interested in helping the Heritage Task Group, click here.