The Tomah Boy Scout Cabin is a fine example of a small log cabin, made from local materials and built by local volunteers. Many towns across America were constructing these cabins in the first half of the twentieth century in order to provide a meeting location for their city’s Boy Scout troop. Communities came together and donated money, materials, and in many cases, the time and expertise to erect buildings for the Boy Scouts of America. The Tomah Boy Scout Cabin became a place for fun activities, but it also served as a venue for moral and social lessons.

The Tomah Journal applauded the decision to build a cabin for the Tomah Boy Scouts: “Nothing could be finer that the provision of a cabin for these boys who are being taught the value of being good citizens and it is certain Tomah’s people and organizations will make the project a great big success in every way.” The Tomah Lions Club spearheaded this community cabin project. The young men of Tomah participated in real life experiences during the cabin project. They were able to witness the excitement and advocacy of the Tomah community during the fund raising process. Once that goal was met, the boys became a part of the building team with their fathers and others in the community, including the Federal Emergency Relief (FERA) workers. The scouts learned a hands-on lesson in the construction of a cabin that was similar in composition to that of the American pioneer cabin.

The Boy Scouts of America offered to teach a boy how to live, camp and survive in the woods, how to start a campfire and cook a meal, how to interpret the signs of the forest and the tracks of animals, how to recognize wild fruits, roots and nuts which were good to eat, and how to be strong enough to save a life. In turn, he would respect his flag and love his country, obey his parents and leaders. Being a Tomah Boy Scout gave many young men the sense of belonging as well as access to adult mentoring. The Boy Scouts of America formulated the perfect combination of value based educational activities combined with fun.