Troop 447 member John Spencer shovels a pile of gravel for his Eagle Scout project. Spencer plans to lay an entry walkway to the Museum of Scotland County and landscape the area around the building. | Photo by Matt Smith
John Spencer, 15, began his Eagle Scout project Friday afternoon in front of the museum. Spencer, a troop member of Troop 447, said that the project will focus on making the museum a more attractive attraction.
The museum is located across from the John Blue House on X-Way Road.
"I'm going to help out the Historical Society here in Laurinburg," Spencer said. "I'm going to build a 43-foot long sidewalk connecting the asphalt parking lot of the Museum of Scotland County to the building. After I'm done this this, which I am completing this weekend, I'm going to landscape the whole stretch of the building and the Scotland County museum sign. Today we are laying the bedding, excavating the dirt and laying the edging and screening in."
Spencer said that the project will take many hours to complete. The troop had more than 10 volunteers Friday afternoon at the initial start of the project.
"I will probably have over 120 hours of man hours in the project," Spencer said. "In all, this part of the project will take 100 hours and the landscaping will take about 20 more."
Spencer said that the project is required for the Eagle Scout rank, the final rank in the Boy Scout system.
To earn the rank, a scout must have been active in the troop for six months as a Life rank scout, demonstrate that they live by the Scout Law and Oath, earn 21 total merit badges including 12 required merit badges, hold a leadership role in the troop and complete a service project.
This project will count toward Spencer's requirements.
"I still have one merit badge to do," Spencer said, "but this is the big thing."
Spencer said that the support of his troop members has kept him motivated so far.
"It means a lot to me to have everyone out here," he said. "I really appreciate it. It's really cool of them."
The Museum of Scotland County features a unique history of farming and industry in the Scotland County region. The museum features old antique cars, a fire engine and artifacts from the Civil War.
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