The bronze bust of Robert Baden-Powell in Funchal, Madeira, stands as a tribute to the founder of the global Scouting movement. This monument, located on Rua João Tavira, commemorates a man whose vision and dedication have inspired millions of young people worldwide.
The Life of Baden-Powell
Robert Stephenson Smyth Baden-Powell, born on February 22, 1857, in London, was a British Army officer, writer, and artist. His military career spanned from 1876 to 1910, during which he served in India and Africa. Baden-Powell became a national hero during the Second Boer War for his defence of Mafeking. His experiences in the military, particularly in reconnaissance and scouting, laid the groundwork for his later work with youth.
In 1907, Baden-Powell organised the first experimental camp on Brownsea Island, which is now recognised as the birth of the Scouting movement. His book, “Scouting for Boys,” published in 1908, became a bestseller and a manual for the movement. By 1910, he had retired from the army to dedicate himself fully to Scouting, founding The Scout Association and later, with his sister Agnes, the Girl Guides.
The Scouting Movement
The Scouting movement, founded by Baden-Powell, aimed to support young people in their physical, mental, and spiritual development. It quickly spread across the globe, fostering a sense of adventure, community service, and leadership among its members. Today, Scouting is a worldwide movement with millions of members in numerous countries.
Baden-Powell’s Connection to Madeira
Baden-Powell visited Madeira in the early 1930s, a period when the island was becoming a popular destination for notable figures seeking a pleasant climate and beautiful landscapes.
The Bust in Funchal
The bust of Baden-Powell in Funchal was inaugurated on February 22, 1998, to mark the 70th anniversary of the Corpo Nacional de Escutas, the Portuguese Scouting Association.
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