The Scout Hut at Detert Park is a very familiar landmark, but do you know the history?  The planning, construction and financial support was entirely provided by the community of Jackson to house Boy Scout Troop 78.   The following is an article from The Sacramento Bee dated Monday, December 3, 1945.

“Another community project is gaining widespread attention and interest.  With the successful completion planned built out of door Swimming pool, civic minded individuals have turned their time and efforts towards the building of a Boy Scout Hut, adequate to care for the needs of Jackson Boy Scout activities.

Money and material were donated by the business houses, individuals, civic and fraternal organizations.

The Hut adjoins Detert Memorial Park and is in the same area of the pool.  The building will be 30 feet by 50 feet and it is hoped it will be completed by Christmas for a big Scout Party.  The civic committee of the Jackson Women’s Club sponsored a cared party that cleared over $200 towards the fireplace.  Yesterday was cement pouring day.

G.H. Brinker is the carpenter working with Emmett Garbarini who is donating his services, drawing the plans and supervising the construction.”

The plans for the Scout Hut were drawn by Warren Plamondon at Mr. Garbarini’s request.  Warren at the time was home on Military Leave.  In later years mr. Plamondon became Amador County’s planning director. 

With the completion of the Scout Hut, it was dedicated by Jackson Mayor Babe Garbarini.  The Native Daughters of the Golden West completed the fireplace in the Scout Hut. 

The Scout Hut is uniquely built as the first floor under-structure is constructed with steel rods that give the structure more strength as weight is added to the top floor. 

In the basement of the Scout Hut where Troop 78 currently meets, has a steel door walk in safe used to store firearms for civil defense.

The building of the Scout Hut really was a community effort that shows great support, good will and has served as a lasting resource for the Community.  

On April 11, 2005 the Jackson City Council renamed the Scout Hut to the Bill Scanlon Scout Hut.  The dedication recognizes the unknown amount of volunteer hours Mr. Scanlon volunteers to guide and encourage the growth and development of young boys to men within the Scout ideals.  Mr. Scanlon was the Scoutmaster from 19XX until 19XX and continues to serve as the Troop 78 Advancement Chair.  Of course, the selfless dedication could only be achieved by the support of his wife, Jean.  The pair has undoubtedly touched many Scouts lives.