Learn about Girl Scouting history in central and western North Carolina! Discover vintage artifacts in our virtual history museum, like uniforms, badges, handbooks and more.
Archives & History Resources
GSCP2P Archives & History
The History and Archives Committee of Girl Scouts Carolinas Peaks to Piedmont (GSCP2P) endeavors to preserve its history by maintaining the council archives as well as small collections in four areas of the council. These archives consist of uniforms, badges, photographs and other memorabilia, which show the history of Girl Scouting, as well as the history of GSCP2P.
It is our goal to maintain these items for future Girl Scouts and to promote interest in Girl Scout history for our girls today. The Archives committee serves this council by providing history programs and historical displays including:
- Virtual Archives Museum: We are preserving local Girl Scout history through a virtual archives museum. Discover our growing collection of vintage items.
- Uniforms to Borrow: Girls are welcome to borrow vintage uniforms for fashion shows and to try on. These uniforms can be borrowed for up to two weeks. A $25 deposit is required for 10 or less uniforms and a $50 deposit is required for more than 10. Upon the return of the uniforms in the same condition, the deposit is returned to the troop. For more information about checking out uniforms, please send an inquiry here.
- Displays and History Talks: Members of the Archives Committee are happy to do displays of historical items for large groups or service units. They also do history talks for troops, bringing in local history and memorabilia.
- Juliette Gordon Low Talks: Want to know about our founder, Juliette Gordon Low? Request a visit by a local authority who will share interesting information and fun facts!
- Girl Scout Collector's Show: The Archives Committee puts together a collector's show that brings vendors from other states. Troops and the public are invited to attend. It is a great way to see lots of historical memorabilia and girl programming and activities are usually planned around the show. The next show is scheduled for 2027.
The Archives Committee is always looking for more ways to preserve the GSCP2P history. If you have unwanted Girl Scouts items you would like to donate, including old uniforms, handbooks, badges, pins, papers and photographs about Girl Scouts in North Carolina, please let us know.
For more information about the History and Archives Committee, contact us at info@girlscoutsp2p.org or visit the Archives Committee website.
GSCP2P Virtual History Museum
Through The Decades Patch
The "Through the Decades Patch" allows Girl Scouts of all levels to explore local history and traditions. Begin with a colorful center patch and add fun rockers to showcase the activities from different eras that you have completed. Celebrate the Girl Scout spirit across generations!
Decade Boxes
Troops can also check out Decade Boxes from the 1920/30s, 1940s, 1950s, 1960s and 1970s. Other history-themed Program Checkout Boxes include, Juliette Low Birthday boxes, Traditions boxes and a Victorian Tea Party box. Reserve a Program Check Out Box and pick it up from your nearest service center.
Girl Scout Traditions
Girl Scout traditions bring together members worldwide, bridging the past and present. They connect today's Girl Scouts to the pioneering spirits of earlier generations and highlight the vast, supportive community they belong to.
Explore some of these cherished traditions below.
Girl Scout Days 
The Girl Scout Sign
When reciting the Girl Scout Promise, Girl Scouts display a special sign by raising their right hand with three fingers extended, while the thumb tucks in the pinky. Each finger symbolizes a key element of the Promise.
Handshake
Girl Scouts have a special way to greet each other with a unique
handshake. To perform this handshake, they use their left hand for
shaking, while the right hand forms the Girl Scout sign. This gesture,
with the left hand closer to the heart, symbolizes a bond of friendship.
Friendship Circle
The Friendship Circle consists of participants forming a circle,
crossing their right arms over their left, and holding hands with the
person next to them. In silence, each person makes a wish while a gentle
squeeze is passed from one hand to the next around the circle.
Symbolizing the continuous bond of companionship among Girl Scouts
Flag Ceremony
A flag ceremony pays tribute to the American flag as a symbol of our
nation. In such ceremonies, the flag is carefully carried by a color guard.
Investiture and Rededication
Investiture: This event marks the introduction of new members to the Girl Scout community. During the ceremony, newcomers receive both their membership pin and their pin corresponding to their grade level.
Rededication: These gatherings provide a chance for Girl Scouts, along with their families and volunteers, to reaffirm their dedication to the Girl Scout Promise and Law.
Court of Honor
The ceremony celebrates the achievements of Girl Scouts. During this event, they receive badges, year pins, and various recognitions they have earned over the year. Volunteers might also receive acknowledgment during the ceremony.
Kaper Chart
Situpon
Swaps
Motto
According to the 1947 Girl Scout Handbook, the motto for Girl Scouts is
“Be prepared.” This phrase emphasizes that a Girl Scout should always be
ready to lend a hand when needed. It's not merely about the willingness
to help; it’s equally important to possess the skills necessary to
execute tasks effectively, even in urgent circumstances. This principle
continues to hold significance today.
Trefoil
The trefoil serves as an important emblem for the Girl Scouts, embodying
the three elements of the Girl Scout Promise. Its three leaves stand for
the commitment to help others, adhere to the highest ideals and
contribute positively to the community.
