The History of the Order of the Arrow in Vermont

Green Mountain Council and Memphremagog

 

Chartered in Rutland in 1948 under Green Mountain Council 593 (would become 592), Memphremagog Lodge 398 was active from 1948 until its merger in 1965.  The Lodge’s name, Memphremagog, was a word from the Abenaki language, meaning “beautiful waters,” while the Lodge’s totem was an Osprey.  During its active years, Memphremagog frequently met at Camp Sunrise in Benson; to this day, the ceremonial fire ring still exists on the Camp’s property.  In 1965, Memphremagog merged with Nicaweeggee Lodge 493 to form Nianque Lodge 398 under Ethan Allen Council (593).

 

Memphremagog issued arguably the fewest emblems of all Vermont lodges, only producing two pocket flaps and one pocket patch (two versions) of which are commonly found on a yellow neckerchief.  Examples of the R1a can be found sewn to a yellow, heavy cotton neckerchief material while examples of the R1b are sewn to a much lighter weight, yellow neckerchief material. 

 

While merging in late 1965, Memphremagog hosted the 1965 Area 1F Conference held at Camp Sunrise.  An example of the neckerchief produced for this event is shown to the right.  In attendance of this event was Dr. E. Urner Goodman, the founder of the Order of the Arrow and the first Brother to be awarded the Vigil Honor.  While both part time residents of Vermont, Dr. Goodman and Colonel (Retired) Carroll A. Edson made multiple trips to Vermont scouting events during their lifetimes.