The Maine Scout Jamboree’s opening ceremony concluded with the blowing of a kudu horn.

Maine Jamboree draws 4,200 to note world Scouts

OXFORD – Oxford County Fairgrounds was the site for the Pine Tree Council, Boy Scouts of America, Jamboree celebrating the 100th anniversary of Scouting on Oct. 19 to 21. More than 4,200 campers and day visitors attended Maine Jamboree 2007, Brownsea Centennial Celebration.

Scout troops began setting up camp on the fairgrounds property on Friday afternoon. Each of the five districts in the Pine Tree Council had a sub-camp named after a significant location in Scouting history. The sub-camps were divided up by troop.

Saturday morning the skies cleared for the opening ceremony. Sen. Dave Hastings presented a proclamation to John Messer, chairman of Maine Jam 2007. Maine Department of Conservation Commissioner Patrick McGowan addressed the Scouts.

McGowan spoke of Gov. John Baldacci’s new initiative, “Take It Outside,” and suggested that Scouting can serve as a role model.

The opening ceremony concluded with the blowing of a kudu horn, just as Scouting’s founder, Robert Baden-Powell, opened the first Boy Scout camp on Brownsea Island off the coast of England on Aug. 1, 1907.

Saturday was filled with Scouting programs and activities. In addition to traditional Scouting activities, Scouts participated in Scouting Idol, Scout Iron Chef and Scout Air Guitar.

Saturday evening’s entertainment included live music, a laser light show and a fireworks display.

The Jamboree closed after Sunday morning worship services. Prior to departing the fairgrounds the Scouts cleaned the area.