FireCrafter
Subscribe to our NewsletterFIRECRAFTER
Founded in 1920, Firecrafter is a service organization that serves Scouting in the Crossroads of America Council. Designed to emphasize the ideals of friendship, leadership, and service, Firecrafter teaches youth how to become a better Scout. Firecrafter is completed through self-advancement during a long-term camping experience. Consisting of two Cub Scout ranks, three Boy Scout ranks, and one honor, the program encompasses all basic Scouting skills and some unique additions. Firecrafter ranks are aligned with Scouting ranks and help to re-enforce the Scout’s advancement trail.
Camp Ranks
Camper
Woodsman
Woodsman is the second year program. Campers should be encouraged to become a Woodsman. The Woodsman rank covers camp skills (fire building, knot tying, knife and ax), nature, first aid, leadership and two hours of service.
Firecrafter
Firecrafter is the third year program for First Class Scouts and above. While some exceptional Firecrafters have attained it in their first or second year in camp, it is usually the Third Year before a Scout has the physical or emotional maturity to candidate for Firecrafter. The standards for the Firecrafter rank are high and include all areas of Scouting skills. The three most difficult requirements are planning and leading a campfire, building a fire by friction, and the “unknown test” of the Firecrafter Ritual, which takes place after camp is over.
Minisino
Minisino is a Miami Indian word meaning “tried and proven”. A youth is eligible to be tapped out for Minisino the summer following his becoming a Firecrafter. After a Firecrafter is tapped, out he must successfully complete a two-week candidacy at one of the council camps. Only those who are tapped out know its requirements.
Purpose of FireCrafter
In direct pursuit of the principles and ideals of Scouting of boys, Firecrafter was created for and dedicated to service to all phases of that movement.
Firecrafter and each individual Firecrafter shall be directed toward the observance of the following creed:
- We believe that leadership ought to be fostered and its high trusts and responsibilities cultivated.
- We believe that a Scout becomes a better Scout when he exhibits unselfish friendship to others.
- We believe that Firecrafter's service to Scouting aids both the Firecrafter and every scout in building better character and citizenship.
Friendship:
Enthusiasm and the Scouting Spirit are contagious. Firecrafter’s goal is to instill this spirit through the candidacies and fellowship with other Firecrafters.
Leadership:
It is always easier to follow rather than lead. Often it is necessary to lead when one must defend one’s beliefs or takes one’s life in the right direction. Firecrafter forces candidates out of the “following” attitude and shows them that in some situations, one must lead the way to accomplish their goals. Leadership is a rare and valuable trait, which Firecrafter attempts to instill.
Service:
Firecrafter serves Scouting and Scouts. Firecrafters have lead countless service projects and participated in camporees in all districts of Crossroads of America Council.
Troop 318 - Camper's & Woodman's
Camper
2008 - Dan Lysy, Patrick McMahon, Dan Magee,Tom Witte
2009 - Trent Holly
2010 - Matthew Hetzer, Joseph Norwell
2011 - Danny Feltman
Woodsman
2009 - Kevin Kenes
2010 - Matthew Hetzer, Joseph Norwell
2011 - Danny Feltman
Troop 318 - FireCrafters
Erik Kowalczyk August 2010
Joe Norwell August 2011
Dan Magee August 2011
LEADERS
Joe Kowalczyk August 2009
Jerry Stechmiller August 2010
