By Michael Todd
Each lodge has their own customs and traditions to uphold, along with those of the Order of the Arrow. Traditions can come or go with mergers and other happenings over time. Some lodges, however, gained and kept traditions throughout some tumultuous eras. Many of those traditions are still around today. A prime example of this is Osceola Lodge's traditions of beaded necklaces. We talked to Dave Mott, who was a part of Osceola Lodge when this tradition was being developed in the midst of threatening mergers.
Each member of the lodge receives a white bead on red yarn when they are called out. Mr. Mott explained the significance and purpose of the beads. "The red yarn and white bead - OA sash colors - is a positive way to mark newly selected [candidates who] proudly wear their beads until taking their Ordeal." After being called out, these new candidates could wear this bead back to their troop meetings, where Arrowmen could recognize them, congratulate them, and encourage them to attend the upcoming Ordeal.
After successful completion of the Ordeal, the new members could purchase a royal blue bead, a white bead (Osceola Lodge colors) and a leather strip, and then the token of candidacy became memorabilia: a history of their journey in the Order, hanging around their neck. Different beads meant different things. Each chapter had a bead to signify chapter-level membership. Completion of the induction by going through their Brotherhood ceremony was signified by a red bead, Vigil honor members could wear a purple bead, and Founder Award Recipients could wear a transparent purple one.
These weren't just bragging rights, Mott said. "The beads were developed to encourage members to participate. They were available for LEC members… Brotherhood, ceremonies, being an Elangomat, serving on any other committee." There was even a special tradition for lodge chiefs. While serving, the chief could choose to wear all of the chapter beads as a symbol of being part of every chapter.
Osceola Lodge has a tumultuous history with its surrounding councils. Facing mergers and splits with various lodges in the fifties, late sixties, and early to mid-nineties, Osceola's beading tradition has kept youth involved, motivated, and invested in the program the lodge has offered for over 25 years. Although younger members of the lodge today are less invested in the system, Advisers and older youth still perpetuate the tradition and work to keep its value as an incentive and reward.
Does your lodge have a tradition that has lasted through the years? Let us know by emailing information to content@oa-bsa.org, and the story may be featured in an upcoming newsletter!