Every year on March 12, Girl Scouts across the United States celebrate National Girl Scout Day, marking the anniversary of the organization’s founding in 1912. The date commemorates the moment when Juliette Gordon Low officially registered the first 18 members of the Girl Scouts in Savannah, launching a movement that would grow into one of the largest leadership organizations for girls in the world.
The celebration also marks the beginning of Girl Scouts of the USA’s annual Girl Scout Week. The weeklong observance traditionally starts with Girl Scout Sunday and concludes with Girl Scout Sabbath on Saturday, giving troops, families, and communities time to reflect on the organization’s mission and accomplishments.
For more than a century, Girl Scouts has focused on empowering girls through leadership opportunities, community service, and outdoor exploration. Millions of girls have participated in programs that encourage confidence, teamwork, and civic engagement. Jada and Elizabeth stopped by Milwaukee Tonight to share their experiences as girl scouts.
A Milwaukee Legacy
While the organization’s roots began in Georgia, the Girl Scout movement quickly spread across the country — including to Wisconsin.
Girl Scouting arrived in Milwaukee in 1921, when Alice Chester established the city’s first local chapter and became its inaugural president. Her leadership helped introduce the Girl Scout mission to generations of young women in the region.
The Chester family’s influence continues to shape the organization today. The Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast Service and Resource Center is named in honor of Alice Chester’s daughter, Marion Chester Read.
Marion grew up in Milwaukee and later served the nation during World War II, working for the U.S. Department of Defense. She lived to the age of 95, passing away in 2014, leaving behind a legacy tied closely to the organization that shaped her early years.
Inspiring Generations
From its founding in Savannah to its growth in cities like Milwaukee, Girl Scouting has remained dedicated to building girls of courage, confidence, and character.
More than a century after those first 18 members were registered, the organization continues to inspire girls nationwide to lead, serve their communities, and pursue new adventures.
The stories of Juliette Gordon Low, Alice Chester, and Marion Chester Read reflect the enduring impact of Girl Scouting — a movement that has empowered generations and continues to shape future leaders.
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